Museum of the Islands

In operation since February 1990, the Museum of the Islands in Bokeelia, Florida is dedicated to the history of Pine Island inhabitants, whether they were the original ancient natives or recent ones. It is run and operated by local volunteers and has around 3,000 visitors a year from all over the world.

Until relatively recent years, the island could only be reached by boat, but now there is a roadway which runs to Pine Island. The people who lived here were either native to the islands or were people looking to get away from society. This museum is designed to preserve the heritage of these people.

While the museum is always looking for additional items, there are several exhibits which definitely make it worth the drive to Pine Island. Among them are an exhibit dedicated to the local fish and fishermen, another one devoted to the indigenous wildlife, artifacts from original households, an extensive shell collection, and a doll collection in an antique horse buggy. It even houses some artwork including a mural of a native village and a tapestry portrait of George Washington made exclusively of over 300,000 glass beads.

Winter (November 1 April 30) hours are Tuesday Saturday from 11 3 and Sundays 1-4. Summer hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 11 - 3. There is a small charge for admission.