Elisha Newton Dimick and his influence on the development of Palm Beach

This thesis discusses Elisha Newton "Cap" Dimick from 1876 when he arrived in Palm Beach until his death in 1919. Dimick, one of the area's first settlers, arrived when the island was a wilderness. When he died Palm Beach was a world renowned resort. Henry Morrison Flagler, Standard Oil magnate, is often cited as the founder of Palm Beach and the initiator of tourism in the town. Although Flagler's contribution to the town was great, Cap Dimick must be chosen as Palm Beach's founder. Dimick's efforts led to the opening up of isolated Palm Beach. His Cocoanut Grove House was the town's first tourist hotel and its charm successfully enticed many northerners to the area, including Henry Flagler.