‘Immerse Yourself!’ in Learning at Florida Keys History of Diving Museum

 

The Florida Keys History of Diving Museum, dedicated to the collection, preservation and display of relics and artifacts regarding the sport’s heritage, is offering a free “Immerse Yourself!” lecture series for underwater enthusiasts eager to expand their knowledge.

Qualified and trained experts from treasure hunters to aquanauts help tell the story of mankind’s attempts to explore, understand and venture under the sea —presenting as guest lecturers during the informal evening talks.

Held the third Wednesday of every month, lectures in the yearlong educational series begin at 7 p.m. at the museum, mile marker 82.9 bayside in Islamorada.

Summer events include a June presentation by the Historical Diving Society about the Squalus submarine recovery, insights into World War I espionage and treasure salvage in July, and a timely discussion in August about coral spawning and reproduction — a phenomenon that typically occurs along Keys reefs during the August and September full moons.

In the fall, the “Immerse Yourself!” talks include an exploration of silent rebreathers by Lamar Hires of Dive Rite, therapeutic dolphin interactions presented by Island Dolphin Care’s Deena Hoagland, and a snapshot of life on a Spanish merchant vessel.

The History of Diving Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors touring the facility come within inches of the earliest diving machines including a full-scale replica of an all-wood diving bell; the Parade of Nations, an unparalleled collection of 25 historic hard-hat dive helmets from around the world; and exhibits illustrating the significant contributions made by men and women in the progression of modern-day scuba diving and underwater exploration.

Regular admission is $12 per adult, half-price for children ages 6-11 and free for kids 5 years old and under as well as active duty U.S. military. Special rates apply for seniors and retired U.S. military.

 

Museum and lecture information: DivingMuseum.org or 305-664-9737

Islamorada visitor information: fla-keys.com/islamorada or 800-FAB-KEYS

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