To: DR. BEN BROTEMARKLE, Exectutive Director - Florida Historical Society, Patty Meyers, DIRECTOR OF MUSEUM & ARCHAEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE, The Florida State House, The Florida State Senate, and Governor Ron DeSantis

Designate The Remains Of "Splendid China Florida" As A Historic Landmark

Splendid China's remains signify an era of Orlando tourism culture that is slowly disappearing from the public's memory. The remains of Splendid China and the land it once stood should be given Cultural Landmark status and incorporated into Encore Capital Management's final designs for the land's future development.

Why is this important?

When Walt Disney World opened in 1971, the Central Florida area began to take on a new shape and personality. With the growth of tourist attractions in the 1970's, 80's, and early 90's, a unique and original feel began to emerge on the side of 192, International Drive, and Universal Boulevard. The memory of these long-gone institutions are slowly fading, erasing what charm the attractions brought to the area. Xanadu, Arabian Nights, King Henry's Feast, and Water Mania are all attractions that no longer grace the billboards of Interstate 4.

Splendid China represents one of the most charming, original, and magnificently planned tourism operations that came to Central Florida. Over 6 1/2 million handmade bricks alone were used in the creation of the park's Great Wall of China, a testament to the artistry and creativity that went into bringing the country's beauty and splendor to its guests. Over time, the park fell to the Post 9/11 tourism slump, which claimed several other Kissimmee/Orlando attractions. Vandals and thieves began tearing away at the park's buildings and defacing the holy statues that many created by hand. Splendid China's presence served as a reminder of Orlando's unique diversity, while also becoming a target of Tibetan activism throughout its time in operation. The park has become somewhat of a mystery and ideal location for "urban explorers" who post videos of the decay in an attempt to gain publicity for their endeavors. The park's rolling hills, handmade structures, and artistic remains should be accessible to everyone, not only those trespassing. The story of this once glorious attraction can educate current and future residents about our city's culture, economic hardships, and relationship with the tourism industry in which we rely.