The “Lotosland”
This is a model of the “Lotosland,” the yacht formerly owned by Colonel Deeds. It was placed in the exhibit as an example of maritime transportation.
The “Lotosland” was for a number of years the second home of Colonel and Mrs. Deeds. It was a trim vessel of 206 feet, built to Colonel Deeds’ specifications. While it was never used for long ocean voyages, it was fully capable of making them. The “Lotosland” included many innovations, one of the most important of which was the amphibian airplane which it carried. She was the first ship, other than a naval vessel, to be so equipped. When the United States entered World War II, the Navy requisitioned the “Lotosland” and converted her into a combat ship for anti-submarine patrol. She made a distinguished war record and accounted for at least one submarine. After the war the “Lotosland” was disposed of to private shipping interests and, at last reports, was plying between Miami, Florida, and South America.
This picture of the “Lotosland” was taken by Porter B. Chase, who knew her in prewar days and recognized her in port at Miami on January 10, 1950. She is loaded with five busses, destined for delivery to South America.