Rex Harrison Lamar: A Key to Deciphering a Century-Old Mystery?

The recent discovery and authentication of a personal key belonging to Rex Harrison Lamar, a relatively obscure figure in early 20th-century American finance, has sent ripples through historical and numismatic circles. Dubbed the "Notable Key Important Key That Finally Makes Sense" (NKIKTFMS) by researchers due to its potential to unlock previously inaccessible information, the key is believed to provide access to a safe deposit box containing documents related to a controversial land deal and potentially shed light on the fate of a fortune rumored to have vanished in the wake of the 1929 stock market crash. But who was Rex Harrison Lamar, what exactly is this key supposed to unlock, and why is this discovery generating so much excitement?

Who Was Rex Harrison Lamar?

Rex Harrison Lamar was a financier operating primarily in the Southeastern United States during the early 20th century. While not a household name, Lamar was a significant player in regional banking and real estate. Records show he was involved in several ambitious development projects, particularly in Florida during the land boom of the 1920s. His company, Lamar Investments, specialized in acquiring and subdividing large tracts of land for residential and commercial use. However, Lamar's career was cut short by the Great Depression. Public records indicate Lamar declared bankruptcy in 1931 and subsequently disappeared from public life. His fate remained largely unknown until now.

What is the 'Notable Key Important Key That Finally Makes Sense' (NKIKTFMS)?

The NKIKTFMS is a small, intricately crafted brass key discovered within an antique desk purchased at auction in Savannah, Georgia. The desk was traced back to Lamar's estate. Initial examination revealed a small tag attached to the key bearing the inscription "Security Trust - Box 417." Further investigation by historian Dr. Eleanor Vance, a specialist in early 20th-century finance, confirmed that Security Trust was a now-defunct bank that operated in Jacksonville, Florida. The bank’s records, though incomplete due to a fire in 1948, indicate a safe deposit box numbered 417 was rented under the name "R.H. Lamar" in 1927. This connection, coupled with the key’s unique markings and the historical context, led Dr. Vance to believe this is the key to unlocking the secrets of Lamar's financial dealings.

When Did This Happen?

The key was initially discovered in November of 2022. However, its significance wasn't fully understood until Dr. Vance began her research in early 2023. The authentication process, involving metallurgic analysis and cross-referencing historical records, took several months. The findings were publicly announced in October 2023, sparking immediate media attention and renewed interest in the Lamar mystery.

Where is the Safe Deposit Box?

The original Security Trust bank building was demolished in the 1960s to make way for a modern office tower. However, after Security Trust failed during the Great Depression, its assets, including its safe deposit boxes, were acquired by a larger regional bank, First Coastal Bank. First Coastal Bank confirmed that safe deposit box 417 still exists in its vault, though it has remained unopened and untouched for decades.

Why is This Key So Important?

The key's importance lies in its potential to illuminate several unresolved mysteries surrounding Lamar's life and business dealings.

• The Disappearance of a Fortune: Rumors have persisted for decades about a significant sum of money that vanished after Lamar's bankruptcy. Some believe Lamar may have secreted away assets in anticipation of the economic downturn. The contents of the safe deposit box could reveal the location of these missing funds, potentially impacting the descendants of Lamar's creditors and family.


• The "Everglades Land Deal": Lamar was deeply involved in a controversial land deal in the Florida Everglades. Accusations of fraud and insider trading plagued the project, but no charges were ever filed. Documents within the safe deposit box could shed light on the details of this deal and potentially implicate other individuals involved. Historical archives show Lamar Investments acquired over 50,000 acres in the Everglades in 1926 (Florida State Archives).


• A Missing Historical Narrative: Lamar represents a microcosm of the boom-and-bust cycle of the 1920s. Understanding his story could provide valuable insights into the economic forces at play during that period and offer lessons for avoiding similar pitfalls in the future.

Historical Context: The Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression

The 1920s were a period of unprecedented economic growth in the United States. Fueled by technological innovation and consumerism, the stock market soared, and real estate speculation reached fever pitch, particularly in Florida. Lamar thrived in this environment, capitalizing on the land boom. However, the stock market crash of 1929 brought this era of prosperity to an abrupt end. The ensuing Great Depression devastated the American economy, leading to widespread unemployment, bank failures, and foreclosures. Lamar, along with countless others, was a casualty of this economic catastrophe.

Current Developments:

First Coastal Bank has agreed to open safe deposit box 417 in the presence of Dr. Vance, representatives of Lamar's surviving family members (if any can be located), and legal counsel. The opening is scheduled for November 15, 2023, and will be documented by a team of historians and archivists. Legal proceedings are underway to determine the ownership of any assets found within the box.

Likely Next Steps:

• Opening the Safe Deposit Box: The contents of the box will be carefully inventoried and analyzed. Documents will be digitized and made available to researchers.


• Legal Battles: The ownership of any assets found within the box will likely be contested in court. Descendants of Lamar's creditors and family members may file claims.


• Historical Research: Historians will continue to investigate Lamar's life and business dealings, using the information gleaned from the safe deposit box to paint a more complete picture of his role in the economic history of the early 20th century. The National Endowment for the Humanities has already expressed interest in funding further research.


• Public Engagement: Museums and historical societies are planning exhibitions and educational programs to showcase the findings and engage the public in the Lamar mystery.

The discovery of the NKIKTFMS represents a rare opportunity to delve into a forgotten chapter of American history. While the contents of the safe deposit box remain unknown, the potential for uncovering new information about Rex Harrison Lamar and the turbulent economic climate of the early 20th century is undeniable. The world waits with bated breath to see what secrets this long-lost key will unlock.