Current Exhibit
In the 1870s, intrepid pioneers settled the north and south ends of what is now Marco Island. Despite challenging times and an unforgiving environment, industrious and resilient families transformed these settlements into villages at Marco and Caxambas. These bustling communities were bolstered by strong leaders and economies centered around farming, fishing, and clamming.
Through this award-winning exhibit chronicling the evolution of Marco Island’s pioneer period from 1870 to 1960, learn what it meant to make a life on the harsh frontier of Florida’s southwestern fringe. A full-size, immersive Florida “cracker cabin” with video gallery, porch and rocking chairs allows visitors to imagine themselves in an early pioneer home. Through the diary of 14-year-old Saloma Olds, get a rare peek into the daily struggles and triumphs of a Marco Island family during the early 1900s.
connectorshare
THE PIONEER GALLERY GIFT OF
George and Carol Engstrom
FUNDING FOR THIS EXHIBIT GENEROUSLY PROVIDED BY
Collier County Museums, Marco Island Historical Society, Betsy and Bill Perdichizzi in memory of Kappy Kirk, Marco Island Floor Covering, Island Country Club Charitable Foundation
Exhibit Photo Gallery
Saloma Olds' journal documenting her life on Marco Island between January 1914 and March 1915. MIHS 2011-04-002.
Stan Gober's hat. Gober (1926-2012) was a long-time Goodland resident and owner of Stan's Idle Hour. MIHS 2008.03.001.
Seminole dolls, ca. 1930-1940. MIHS 2016-08-022, 2016-08-023.
Scale from 100-pound tarpon caught by Marco Island resident Charles Louis Olds, May 20, 1915. MIHS 2011-04-534A.
John Chatillon & Sons 20-pound fishing scale, ca. 1900-1940. MIHS 2016-08-014.
McCormick & Co. insect powder tin, ca. 1910-1940. MIHS 2016-08-007.
AWARDS
The Pioneer Era: A Tale of Two Villages is the recipient of the 2017 Southeastern Museums Conference (SEMC) Excellence in Exhibitions Award in the over $100,000 category.
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