James A. FitzPatrick produced and directed a series of one-reel short subjects (just over ten minutes each)often called "Traveltalks" distributed to theaters across the nation mainly in the 30's and 40's. FitzPatrick narrated the travel films as "The Voice of the Globe." He was assisted by his able cameraman, Bob Carney, who supplied the pictures. All the later travel shorts were in color at a time when other shorts (and most movies) were in black and white. The color, the skilled camera work, and FitzPatrick's intriguing narration made the Traveltalks popular.
"Glimpses of Florida" begins with a story about how southern Florida changed from a desolate area of sand to one of balmy palm trees beginning in 1878 when a wrecked ship loaded with coconuts was salvaged by the local inhabitants who proceeded to plant the cargo. At the time "Glimpses of Florida" was released, southern Florida was still sparsely populated but a playground for tourists. FitzPatrick and Carney highlight African American culture in Florida as Stephen Foster's "Swanee River (Old Folks at Home)" is sung in the background. Seminole culture is spotlighted as well, with emphasis on their customs, crafts, and dress.
Ross Allen and his sister are shown catching turtles and alligators. Ross struts his stuff by wrestling an alligator that appears to be either tame or tranquilized. Carney gets to show off his underwater camera work which is truly dazzling, especially for 1941. Silver Springs bathing beauties close out this Traveltalk displaying their swimming talents (plus other natural gifts) for the audience.
Today, FitzPatrick and Carney's travel adventures are more a curiosity than entertainment. The Traveltalks seem quaint, showing the viewer how the world looked once upon a time.