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In October of 1955, five
DeLand residents banded together to do something about
the stray animal situation. There was no Animal Control
officer at that time.
On June 5, 1956, the
State of Florida issued to the DeLand Humane Society a
charter as a not-for-profit corporation. The purpose
being the protection of all animals.
Mrs. Ruth Beadette was
the first President. After a while Mrs. Beadette
resigned, and the other members of the Board started a
drive to raise money to build a shelter. Up to that time
they were working with converted chicken coops. Stray
animals were picked up, and no animals were
refused.
Edith Sweetser became
President. She announced that the County was willing to
give the Society a 99 year lease on 3 acres of County
owned land.
On September 26, 1958,
ground was broken for the shelter. Together with Mrs.
Sweetser, Sally Morrow turned the first shovel of
dirt.
The dedication and formal
opening of the new building took place on Sunday,
December 14, 1958. On that day County Commissioner Stone
presented a quick-claim deed for the 3 acres to Miss
Sweetser.
At that time the shelter
consisted of 12 kennels with outside runs, a room for
cat cages with an enclosed play area for cats, and a
room with storage space, and office, a dip tub and
toilet facilities, 150 yards from the kennels were
temporary cages for isolation.
During the first year of
operation, 990 animals were handled.
In 1964, the DeLand
Humane Society was deeded more acres by the
County.
In 1970, the DeLand Humane
Society changed it's name to the West Volusia Humane
Society. That name more clearly depicted its area of
service. On August 5, 1970 the name change was
officially recognized by the State of
Florida.
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