These posts relate to a broader history of SW Florida
Harney Point Massacre Between 1816 and 1858 the United States Army faced off with the Seminole Indians in one of the longest and costliest Indian War ever fought in the United States. Known as the “Harney Point Massacre,” this bloody battle took place where the Cape Coral Bridge is today. Colonel William Harney commanded a […]
Early Days on the Cape Read More »
Silver Springs is well known as the site of the classic film Creature from the Black Lagoon. One of the first tourist attractions in the state, the park drew visitors from all over the country to observe its beautiful springs and native vegetation. A trip down the Silver River in a canoe, paddleboard, or kayak
The Monkeys of Silver Springs Read More »
Early Subdivisions and Developments 1900-1920 Tarpon Fever In 1885, the first tarpon caught on a rod and reel put Punta Rassa and the surrounding islands on the map as a fishing paradise. Prior to that, fishermen would use hand lines with mullet for bait to catch tarpon. Fisherman on the island quickly realized they could
History Corner: Early Days on FMB Read More »
Anne and Jack Although the story of Anne Bonny and Calico Jack honeymooning on Estero Island may be less fact than fiction, it is a refreshing part of the history of Estero Island. According to Jack Beater’s book, Pirates and Buried Treasure on Florida Islands, Anne Bonny was the daughter of a wealthy lawyer who
Pirates and Plundering on Estero Island Read More »
The early part of the 20th century brought more development as the first subdivisions were platted on Fort Myers Beach. H.C. Case platted the first of these subdivisions in 1911. Originally this was part of the Robert Gilbert homestead. Starting at Connecticut Street, the subdivision extended about three quarters of a mile both north and
Development Begins on FMB Read More »