Cutter sleigh a winter delight

For the past several years the Florida Historical Society has displayed their l860 cutter sleigh at the Provident Bank in the Village of Florida. That sleigh, purchased by the society, was once owned by Dr. Frederick W. Seward who, together with his son Frederick, operated the widely-known Interpines Sanatorium in Goshen, roughly where the Orange County Government Center is located today. The elder Dr. Seward was a nephew of one-time Secretary of State William H. Seward who was born in the Village of Florida. The sleigh was crafted by Samuel Green whose blacksmith shop was located next to his residence on Bridge Street in Florida. The house and a portion of the shop still remains. The shop was originally owned by Samuel’s father, Henry, and later by Samuel’s son, Fred. The wagon side in the photo was crafted by Fred whose name appears on it. The sleigh will remain on display during the holiday season. (Photo by J.J. Kimiecik)