About
The 2010 birth of the Marco Island Historical Museum and complex brings to life a long held dream of the Marco Island Historical Society. Created through a partnership with the MIHS and Collier County Museums, this newest addition to the museum system explores Southwest Florida’s Calusa Indians and features colorful, exciting and informative displays to bring this vanished civilization to life. One whole room is dedicated to a replica of a Calusa village and its inhabitants going about their daily lives.
Examples of items that have been unearthed from archeological digs, going back as far as the late 1800’s, are on display. Permanent exhibits trace the history of this subtropical island paradise from its early roots as an Indian settlement, a pioneer fishing village, a pineapple plantation and a clam cannery, through its explosive growth and development in the 1960s by the Miami-based Deltona Corporation.
The grounds of the Museum complex are landscaped with ponds, waterfalls and native, tropical plantings. These peaceful surroundings set off this gem, and include an inviting gazebo where one can take a few moments to enjoy its ambiance, including a large bronze replica of the “Key Marco Cat.”
Within the museum is the Sandlin Gallery, a venue for traveling exhibits. These exhibits showcase the work of artists from around the world illustrating, through various mediums, our local flora, fauna and the history of this area. Each new exhibit is celebrated with an opening reception to which the public is invited.
The Museum Gift Shop is daily adding artwork, jewelry, clothing, local and regional historical books, and many gift items to its offerings! The museum complex is further enriched by the beautiful Rose History Auditorium, a multi-functional facility that is available for rent for a variety of private and public functions and celebrations!
