Fort Lauderdale Florida Lasher & Bloom Taxidermists Sea Turtles Real Photo Postcard

Lasher & Bloom operated as taxidermists and tanners in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, likely during the early to mid-20th century. Their business, as advertised on the placard, extended to "Live Alligators and Alligator Skins," reflecting a commercial enterprise deeply involved with Florida's distinctive wildlife. The postcard prominently features two large sea turtles, indicating these animals were also a part of their trade, whether for taxidermy display, meat, or other products.

This era marked a period when the commercial harvesting and processing of Florida's natural resources, including its abundant marine and reptilian life, were common practices. The significant trade in sea turtles, particularly green sea turtles like those depicted, supplied markets for meat, calipee for soup, and shell products, contributing to a lucrative industry. Such businesses in rapidly developing tourist destinations like Fort Lauderdale capitalized on the state's exotic appeal before comprehensive wildlife protection laws were widely implemented, ultimately leading to severe population declines for many species.