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Find out moreDecember 28, 2016 Published in the January 2017 issue of Sarasota Magazine
George Balanchine came to town in 1941 to choreograph a ballet for 40 circus elephants, with original music by Igor Stravinsky.
Photography by State Archives of Florida/Steinmetz
John Ringling
Esther Williams at the Lido Casino in 1948. She was here to film On an Island With You on location in Anna Maria.
Photography by State Archives of Florida
Mystery writer John D. MacDonald put Sarasota on the nation's literary map. Here he is in the early 1960s, when he created the iconic Travis McGee.
Photography by State Archives of Florida
Eleanor Roosevelt often came to visit in the 1960s. Her favorite--and very elderly--uncle lived on Siesta Key.
Photography by Public Domain
George W. Bush was at Emma E. Booker Elementary School on Sept. 11, 2001, the most famous day of his presidency.
Photography by Eric Draper / Courtesy George W. Bush Presidential Library
Babe Ruth came for both baseball and golf. Here he is at Bobby Jones Golf Course circa 1937.
Photography by EasleyStudios.com
Local boy Paul Reubens' arrest in 1991 set off a media circus.
Photography by FeatureFlash Photo Agency/Shutterstock
It seems like the whole world shows up sooner or later.
At Sarasota Magazine, we celebrate Sarasota’s vibrant culture, rich history, and bright future with award-winning, high-quality content that captures the spirit of our community.