JE #23 - Field Trip to SWFL Museum of History - Part 1

This blog will concern the South West Florida Museum of History which I traveled to on a school field trip this past week which I adored but that is to be expected since I am a History major.

The start of the Southwest Florida Museum of History has to do with the sale of the depot and track on Peck and Monroe streets in Ft Myers by Atlantic Coastline Railroad, in 1971. By 1975, the depot had fallen into disrepair causing concerned residents to take notice and wonder. The collective raised $400,000 in a local campaign and was able to convince the city to pull the rest together to restore the depot, turning it into what we is now the Southwest Florida Museum of History.

In 1982 restoration was completed and specialization in the collection, preservation and interpretation of all things Southwest Florida back to the time of dinosaurs through to modern day was set in motion. The waiting rooms and corridors are local showcases, exhibiting those who helped to shape this area; the local Native American tribes, the first settlers both Spanish and English, and the cattleman as well as displays of local businesses and trades, from the boating and fishing industries to military and agriculture. The exterior of the depot displays the longest and last made 1929 Pullman rail car, a 1926 La France pump truck (garaged) and authentic replica of a "cracker" house.

The tour was informative but felt rushed. I hope to go back the week after next and participate in the walking tour of Ft Myers and to take a more leisurely trip through the museum.

The museum is in need of interns who can assist with historical research appointments and with the organization and cataloging of their artifacts collection. I hope to apply for this position!