Porchlight Archive

An oral history of five generations in Fernandina Beach, Florida

For generations, the Lawhorne family worked the waters of the Amelia River, shrimping the tidal creeks and marshes of Nassau County. These are their stories — recorded in their own voices, in their own words.

Interviews

SL Photo coming

Susie Lawhorne

Mother

Interviewed July 12, 2025

Add a short description or a memorable line from your conversation with your mother here.

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DB Photo coming

Dorothy Brazell

Great Aunt — maternal grandfather's sister

Interviewed July 30, 2025

The oldest living person in Nassau County, Dorothy Brazell has seen Fernandina Beach change across nearly a century of life on the Amelia River.

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MM Photo coming

Mark Mertz

Uncle by marriage — maternal

Interviewed August 23, 2025

Add a short description or a memorable line from your conversation with Mark here.

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KS Photo coming

Kathy Sheldon

Aunt — maternal

Interviewed August 31, 2025

Add a short description or a memorable line from your conversation with Kathy here.

Listen & read →