Sanibel Historical Museum and Village

The Village consists of nine (9) authentic,historically restored buildings, each representing an aspect of pioneer life. There is a schoolhouse, a fishing cottage, a "snowbird" cottage, a general store and tea room. Admissions were up 10% over last year. The Museum hosted special tours during the season. These special tours are geared totally toward education, again fulfilling our mission to preserve, share, and celebrate Sanibel's history. Each tour is hosted by one or two experienced tour guides and ranges from 1-1/2 to two hours.

The Museum offered three volunteer update events. These are casual lunch- time talks for volunteers and members at the 150 level or above. Their purpose is education, and they are usually attended by about 60 people, the full capacity of our on-site location. The talks were: - state of the Village and its future (expenses and revenue zero) - our buildings have a past (expenses and revenue zero) - growing up on the bay (expenses and revenue zero) the Village also held fun mule appreciation week to highlight the importance of mules to the island pioneers. There is a new mule exhibit perfect for picture taking and special items for sale in the gift shop.

The Museum offered two twilight talks during the season with approximately 200 people attending each talk. This program is one of our best vehicles for educating people about the history of the island and the purpose of the Museum. By these talks, we are fulfilling our mission. The talks included: - the history of tarpon bay - god and Sanibel: the history of religion on Sanibel