The
Museum of the Everglades
is a branch site of the Collier County Museum.
A showcase for the rich
and colorful history of the region, the Museum of the Everglades displays
artifacts and photographs to tell the story of 2,000 years of human habitation
in the southwest Everglades. This lush environment shaped the lives of all who
came here: ancient Calusa, Seminole, pioneer and entrepreneur.
Permanent exhibits
feature Barron G. Collier's successful transformation of a pioneer village into
a modern 1920's town and his fulfillment of a promise to complete the road (the
Tamiami Trail) that would open the area to tourism and development.
The Museum also offers
changing art and history exhibitions year round.
The
Museum of the Everglades
is located in Everglades City, Florida just off the circle in the center of
town. A showcase for the history of the Everglades region, the Museum presents
the story of 2,000 years of human habitation with artifacts and period
photographs. Education programs, lectures and events are presented throughout
the year.
Opened April 26, 1998, the Museum is in the Old Laundry, one of the buildings
that dates to the time when the Tamiami Trail was being constructed. Built by
Barron Gift Collier as part of his planned community, the laundry served the
people of the new city of Everglades.
Designed and opened as a commercial laundry on October 24,
1927, the building was used for this purpose until just after World War II. It
was considered a "state of the art" facility.
Collier Development Corporation continued to use the building until 1960 when
Hurricane Donna hit Everglades City. The Everglades Woman's Club received use of
the building in 1965 and purchased it in 1972 for a club house. The Club
disbanded in 1988 and donated the site to the County for use as a museum.
The
Friends of the Museum of the Everglades
was formed and became incorporated in 1992. The combined efforts of the Friends,
the City of Everglades City, Florida Department of State, Division of Historical
Resources, and Collier County Government helped restore the graceful frame
building.
The Museum's operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 AM to 4 PM and is
located at 105 W. Broadway. A gift shop and restroom are on premises. The
building is universally accessible. A donation of $2 is suggested. The turn off
to Everglades City is located at US 41 and CR 29. The museum is about 3 miles
down CR 29 to the circle.
For more information, or for group tours, please contact Donna Ridewood,
Manager, during museum hours at 941-695-0008, or fax at 941-695-0036 and Email
.
