Unexpected Meeting Uncovers Okeechobee's Hidden Family Legacies

Okeechobee, Florida, USA - The 10th of June, 2025, turned into a remarkably serendipitous occasion for Gil and Marie Culbreth. While waiting in a doctor’s office in Vero Beach, the couple crossed paths with Lynne Scharfschwerdt Glass, a woman with deep roots in Okeechobee. As it turns out, Lynne is the granddaughter of Edward Scharfschwerdt, who, along with his brothers Otto and Louis, made their mark in Okeechobee by establishing a hardware store, movie theater, and garage on Park Street back in 1915. Today, this historical site is where the One Stop Party Shop now operates.

What’s the connection? Right next to these thriving businesses once stood Doctor Charles and Anna Darrow’s pharmacy, known as Park Drugs. During her visit, Lynne seized the opportunity to ask about the Darrows. Magi Cable, the President of the Okeechobee Historical Society, was more than happy to oblige. She pulled out a fascinating piece of history—a birth certificate signed by Dr. Darrow, prominently displayed in the Historical Society Museum. The highlight? It was revealed that Dr. Darrow was responsible for delivering one of Lynne’s great aunts, Ida Mary Scharfschwerdt, who was a daughter of Otto Scharfschwerdt.

A Glimpse into Okeechobee’s Past

This chance meeting was more than just a casual catch-up. It sparked a rich exchange of family history, exemplifying the beauty of serendipity in everyday life. Lynne shared that she grew up in Okeechobee alongside her identical twin sister, Laura, and five other siblings. Their childhood adventures did not go unnoticed; their parents often noted the local visitors who flocked to see the twins during playtime on the porch. Lynne attributes much of her and Laura’s exceptional social skills to this unique upbringing.

Delving into the history of Okeechobee County is like uncovering a treasure chest of stories. Named after Lake Okeechobee, which translates to „big water“ in Hitchiti, the county has a rich genealogical backdrop. Okeechobee County was officially created on May 8, 1917, carved from parts of Osceola, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie counties. According to FamilySearch, the county courthouse is located at 304 NW 2nd Street, and serves as a key location for accessing historical records, including marriage, divorce, and court records dating back to 1917.

Historical Records and Genealogy

The rich tapestry of Okeechobee’s history draws many to explore genealogy. With vital records like births, marriages, and deaths on file since as far back as 1915, one can uncover numerous family connections. The local genealogical resources, such as the Genealogical Society of Okeechobee, offer invaluable assistance to those diving into their family roots. In fact, they can be reached via phone or email, making ancestry searching convenient for both locals and newcomers alike.

Historical population data is equally revealing. The 1920 census recorded just 2,132 residents, but as Okeechobee grew, so did its community. By the year 2000, the population swelled to 35,910, according to GenealogyInc. This growth highlights the area’s appeal, which thrives to this day.

In addition to its rich historical background, Okeechobee County is surrounded by various neighboring counties, showcasing a vibrant interconnectivity. Indian River, Martin, St. Lucie, Palm Beach, Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Polk, and Osceola counties all share a border with Okeechobee, making it a central hub for residents and travelers alike.

In a world where connections can happen in the most unexpected places, the chance encounter between the Culbreths and Lynne exemplifies the intertwined stories that make up Okeechobee’s history. With each conversation, we deepen our understanding of both our community and ourselves, one serendipitous meeting at a time.