Lawrence J SweettAuthor Lawrence J. Sweett's ancestors arrived in New Smyrna Beach in 1803. Sweett's interest in local history was inspired by his mother, local historian Zelia W. Sweett, who passed away in 1980. Sweett has chaired the Volusia County Historical Commision and was the organizing chairman of the Volusia County Historic Preservation Commission. He is a charter and organizing member of the Southeast Volusia Historical Society, served four terms as president, and sits on its board of directors. Read More Read Less