Evergreen Ferneries was one of the earliest operational ferneries in the United States. We have an aerial photo here of the earliest fernery locations and the Pemble homestead (date unknown)
(The main road pictured in the aerial photo was at this time called Tavares Rd. Nowadays the road is HWY 441. 4 lanes of high speed hustle and bustle)
First Generation Fern Business- Frank Pemble Sr
In 1920 an entrepreneurial minded, Frank Pemble Sr. began planting Asparagus Plumosus seeds imported directly from Italy. He constructed shade houses made with wooden slats and began growing!
SIr Frank Pemble
Frank Sr. pictured with his brother Charles as young boys
Frank Sr. pictured with his wife Faire Pemble
Frank Pemble Sr. in the Army, he served as a First Sergeant.
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Frank Sr. pictured here with his hounds.
Second Generation Fern Business- Frank Pemble Jr
During the middle of the 1900’s, approx 1950, Frank Pemble JR became the 2nd Generation of Fern Grower and owner of Evergreen Ferneries. It was at this time that he expanded on the use of tropical leaves and also worked feverishly on the construction of the greenhouses that would be used by Evergreen for years and years to come!
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Frank Pemble Jr. at age 12, with a trophy sized fish that earned him a first place in a national fishing tournament right here in Leesburg, FL on Lake Griffin.
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Frank Pemble Jr on right at age 15, with his two sisters, Peggy Pemble 17 on far left and Ann 10 in middle.
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Frank Pemble Jr. here being recognized for one of his prize beagles in a nationally known and recognized publication.
Very proud moment here, 3 Generations of Pembles pictured here at youngest Lance Pemble (will be 4th Gen) wedding.Pictured Brandon Pemble far left, Frank Gordon Pemble, 3rd Generation Fern Grower and current owner of Evergreen Ferneries second, Frank Pemble JR third in pic and Lance Pemble on the right
Third Generation Fern Business- Frank Gordon Pemble
In 1978, Frank Gordon Pemble, goes by Gordon, purchased Evergreen Ferneries from his dad. From 1978 to the current day, Gordon’s determination, unmatched work ethic and drive have made this business continue to thrive. He has been through many economic ups and downs and has continued to keep the ship rocking and rolling! We are unbelievably thankful every day for his dedication to this business!
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Frank Gordon Pemble enjoying a horseback ride with oldest son Brandon in 1987
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When the boys would cause too much ruckus in the house, they were quick to go outside and hop on the mower! A favorite activity at the time between father and son.
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A dream destination for my dad has always been Alaska! Fortunately he and Judy were able to take a cruise and enjoy the many beautiful sights.
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An activity the Pembles have enjoyed for many generations is fishing. Whether a quick outing on our local chain of lakes or a trip out to the deep blue, the Pemble’s are always ready for that “next cast”.
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This is a favorite of mine! Frank Gordon Pemble with Dad, Frank Pemble Jr.
Family is everything!
Here we have Frank Gordon with his wife Judy along with both sons. Sons, Brandon and Lance Pemble, with their whole families. Enjoying a wet but wonderful trip to Sea World during the Christmas Holidays in 2023.
