Steve Rajtar

Steve Rajtar has authored 16 books, each dealing with history, particularly that of Florida. He has written Historic Photos of Florida Attractions and Historic Photos of Gainesville, both available from Turner Publishing. He grew up near Cleveland, Ohio, and after graduating from the University of Central Florida and the University of Florida, he entered the practice of law. He continues in that profession today.

A love of the outdoors and a fascination with local history has resulted in one of his hobbies: leading historical tours in the communities of Florida. Thousands of individuals have attended hundreds of tours he has led through historic neighborhoods, downtowns, and cemeteries. This book is a virtual tour, not only through the neighborhoods of Sarasota County, but also through the decades of its growth into a major tourist destination.