The Overseas Road and Toll District - Florida Keys

From 1938 to 1954, the upper portion of US 1 was officially known as "The Overseas Road and Toll District." Pictured is the first of two toll stations; this one was on the southernmost tip of Lower Matecumbe. In an excerpt from Jerry Wilkinson's website, Keyshistory.org, he writes, "The Florida Keys Weekly News of November 1947 listed 15,254 vehicles with tolls of $29,275.25. In 1952, rumors and investigations of misuse of toll revenue resulted in Monroe County residents being given a free pass. The free passes became available as of January 1, 1953. David W. Pease was the first to pass free of charge just after midnight. The pass was a numbered decal sticker to be placed on their windshields. A short time later, increased pressure resulted in the road tolls being lifted on April 15, 1954. Signs were briefly put up naming it 'The Florida Freeway' but the locals preferred Overseas Highway, and the signs were removed." Footnote: The second toll booth was located on Big Pine Key.