Current Exhibits
Building a Dream: The 25 Year History of the Marco Island Historical Society
June 4, 2019 – September 26, 2019
Marco Island Historical Museum
What does it take to build a museum? Time, money, and community support, to be sure – but none of those arise without years of commitment, enthusiasm, and resolve behind them. Since 1994, the Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) has been educating and inspiring people about Marco Island’s history and heritage. What began as a small-but-passionate friends’ group ultimately resulted in the construction of the Marco Island Historical Museum, an award-winning institution now staffed by a team of career professionals. This exhibit celebrates the 25th anniversary of the MIHS by looking back at its history, exploring not only how the organization’s role has changed since its establishment, but also by asking the visitor where it goes from here.
#MIHS25
Edison and Ford in Southwest Florida
August 5, 2019 – November 1, 2019
Museum of the Everglades
This travelling exhibit on loan from the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers explores the fascination with Florida shared by these two amazing inventors. Captivated by the region’s exotic flora, they hoped to discover a domestic source of rubber to meet the growing demand. Edison and Ford made several forays into the Everglades – camping in the wilderness and enjoying the natural beauty that surrounded them. The exhibit features many rare photographs and paints a vivid picture of how these two American entrepreneurs came to love the Sunshine State and make their second home in Southwest Florida.
Motors & Mud: 70 Years of Swamp Buggy Culture
August 8, 2019 – November 30, 2019
Naples Depot Museum
Collier County’s signature past time is celebrating 70 years! The first Swamp Buggy race was officially held on November 12, 1949 and quickly became a popular attraction for the region. In Motors & Mud: 70 Years of Swamp Buggy Culture learn how these uniquely Naples vehicles were modified and designed to conquer the complex swampy terrain of the Everglades and enjoy memories of Swamp Buggy Races and Parades past.
Cowboy Roots – Photography by Don Columbus
October 15, 2019 – December 28, 2019
Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch
Stumbling unexpectedly upon Roberts Ranch three years ago, photographer Don Columbus was fascinated by the long-time depth of Florida’s cattle industry and the cultural roots of today’s cattle men and women, and the ranches they work. He has strived to capture details of this hard working “Real Florida” lifestyle through the lens of his camera; details that are often missed in the moment. His photographs give the viewer the opportunity not only to experience those moments in time, but to discover a richer present in them.
Don Columbus grew up I the suburbs of New York City where, in his words, “you won’t find any ranches, cattle or cowboys. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be shooting a cattle drive or jamboree.” His love of photography began at age seven when he received his first camera. His creative journey has transitioned from taking snapshots to creating composed images.