Cape Coral Museum of History Marks 45 Years with Free Anniversary Bash!

544 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral, FL, USA - The Cape Coral Historical Society is marking a milestone worth celebrating—its 45th anniversary! This remarkable journey began on June 12, 1980, with a mission to collect and preserve the rich history of Cape Coral and its surrounding areas. To commemorate this special day, an open house is set to unfold at the Cape Coral Museum of History on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Highlighting the event, admission to the museum will be free, offering a splendid opportunity for locals and visitors alike to delve into the region’s intriguing past.

As part of the festivities, attendees will not want to miss the opportunity to join the Master Gardeners for expert-guided tours of the museum’s gardens. An added treat comes from artist Doug MacGregor, who will be available to discuss his exhibit “Suitable for Framing” and sign copies of his children’s books, which will be available for purchase. What better way to honor history than by engaging with local artists as well?

Community Engagement and Expansion

The Cape Coral Museum of History, which opened its doors in 1987, has been operated by the Cape Coral Historical Society since its inception. The museum has become the official repository of Cape Coral’s history, serving as a public resource not only for the local community but also for tourists from across the U.S. and around the globe. The museum features a variety of artifacts, documents, and photographs, providing valuable insights into Cape Coral and Southwest Florida’s heritage. It occupies three buildings and includes three garden areas, inviting exploration and discovery.

With a dedicated 23-member board, alongside one full-time and one part-time staff member, the museum thrives thanks to the hard work of approximately 50 volunteers. Over the years, the museum has expanded its facilities and collections significantly, adding two additional buildings and diverse gardens. Notable developments like the memorial Rose Garden, which was established in 1991, enhance the site’s offerings and draw residents to its scenic beauty. Furthermore, community events such as the Classic Car Fest and Brew Fest have become crucial for increasing public engagement.

Financial Support and Future Aspirations

The museum’s operations rely heavily on financial support from local residents and organizations. They do not have a budget for purchasing items for their collection, which has primarily grown through the generosity of local donations. A significant boost in this regard came in 2020 when the estate of Betsy Zeiss Lewis donated funds for the updating of the museum’s archives, now proudly known as the “Betsy Zeiss Lewis Archives,” further preserving Cape Coral’s history.

The museum recently rebranded itself from the Cape Coral Historical Museum to the Cape Coral Museum of History, signalling an exciting new chapter. Looking to the future, the society aims to expand its collection, introduce temporary exhibits, engage actively with local schools, and even build a new facility to enhance their offerings. It’s a time ripe with potential for the museum and the community it serves.

As you mark your calendars for the anniversary event, remember to swing by for some free birthday cake and perhaps indulge in some hot dogs or hamburgers for purchase. The regular hours of operation are Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., making it accessible for anyone curious about Cape Coral’s vibrant history.

The local community has a good hand in shaping the future of this beloved institution. Plus, with summer winding down and kids back in school, it’s the perfect time for family outings. Other historical sites worth visiting include the SWFL Military Museum & Library, along with the Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, which features a Veterans Memorial—a reminder that history takes many forms.

For those looking to connect with Cape Coral and its history, there’s truly something to be said for exploring both the past and present. So, come join the celebration, and let’s honor what makes Cape Coral unique!