Actor and historian Robert Dawson will present a one-man performance at 2 pm on Sunday, May 4 at the Coral Gables Congregational Church exploring the life and legacy of Coral Gables founder George Merrick — but with a twist. The tales come through the eyes of Merrick’s maternal grandfather, the colorful and enterprising Henry George Greatrake Fink.
Known as a “saddlebag” Methodist preacher, Fink rode the Florida frontier dispensing sermons and selling his self-formulated Fink’s Magic Oil, a venture that earned him a small fortune. He was also a fierce admirer of his grandson, once claiming Merrick’s early poetry surpassed Wordsworth’s.
Dawson, who has created and performed more than 70 one-man shows on historical figures, blends dramatic flair with scholarly insight. His performance promises to bring to life not only Merrick but the spirit of early Coral Gables.
The Coral Gables Merrick House is sponsoring this lively afternoon of storytelling. The free event is part of the city’s centennial celebration.
Admission is free, and seating is first come, first served. For residents seeking a personal window into the city’s origins, this centennial offering is not to be missed.
