In the Sunshine State on this day in:

1828 The Florida Legislature approved an act to create a state banking system and to issue $10,000 in notes, with denominations ranging from 12 1/2 cents to $5.00.

1884 The Fort Myers News-Press was founded today.

1901 In the first intercollegiate football game, Stetson University defeated the Florida Agricultural College (which became the University of Florida) of Lake City by a score of 6-0 in Jacksonville.

1966 The University of Florida’s popular and controversial football coach, Steve Spurrier, was named the recipient of the Heisman Trophy for his achievements as the quarterback of the University of Florida football team.  Spurrier was the first athlete in the state to receive this honor.

1988 Hurricane Keith struck the western shore of Florida between Tampa and Ft. Myers with winds of 65 mph.