June 7, 2020

Stephen Stills Learned to Play Guitar Here


Stephen Stills is considered one of the greatest rock and roll artists of all time. His name is recognized throughout the world. He's in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (twice) and has sold over 35 million albums

He performed at Woodstock in 1969 with folk rock supergroup Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young "noted for their intricate vocal harmonies ... and lasting influence on American music and culture." 1 For a time, Crosby, Stills and Nash was the most popular rock group in the world and they were called the "American Beatles."

Many famous guests have set anchor at 501 Park Street North ‒ once the Jungle Country Club Hotel and now Admiral Farragut Academy. Stephen Stills attended Admiral Farragut Academy during a formative period of his life and he says that he loved it. "It taught me honor, developed my character, and helped me become a trouper." 2


One of the greatest guitarists of all time learned to play while attending Admiral Farragut Academy in the Jungle. In 1957, 12-year-old Stephen "latched on to his roommate's guitar and plunked around until his fingers bled."2 In the song "Old Times Good Times," he confirms "when I was twelve, I learned how to play the guitar." By 2003, Stills was number 28 in Rolling Stone's list of "The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time."

Age 12? Admiral Farragut Academy?

9th Grade, Saint Leo College Preparatory School in Saint Leo, Florida,

1961 Plant High School

He also acquired a love of sailing during his time here. AFA Cadets learn to sail on Boca Ciega Bay. Stills and David Crosby wrote the song "Wooden Ships" near Ft. Lauderdale on Crosby's boat, the Mayan.

1977 album cover: David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash sailing on the Mayan.

Highlights and Trivia:
  • Combined record sales of over 35 million albums from Buffalo Springfield, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Manassas, The Stills-Young Band, and as a solo performer.
  • Number 28 in Rolling Stone's 2003 list of "The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time."
  • Was inducted twice in the same night into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as a member of both Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills and Nash.
  • Auditioned for the Monkees ‒ his roommate Peter Tork got the job. 
Stephen Stills and Peter Tork in the late '60s

Stills' first solo record is the only album to feature collaborations with both Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton. Other contributors were Ringo Starr, Mama Cass, Booker T. Jones, John Sebastian, David Crosby and Graham Nash.