The “Old Laundry” Building

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Erected in 1927 by county founder Barron GiftCollier, the building that now houses the museum was home to a commercial steam laundry until shortly after the end of WWII. Designed by architect William O. Sparklin, who also designed the first Collier County Courthouse (now Everglades City Hall) and Bank of Everglades buildings, it still stands strong and retains the character of Mr. Collier’s “company town in the swamp” of the Roaring 20s. Over the years, it has also served as the office of an insurance agency, as a barber shop, a beauty parlor, a thrift store, and even a pizza restaurant.

After leasing it as their clubhouse for more than ten years, the Everglades Women’s Club purchased the building from the Collier Company in 1965. As their membership declined in the 1980s, the Women’s Club leadership conceived of a plan to turn the building into a museum celebrating the local history and heritage. After the Florida Division of Historical Resources suggested they partner with local government to achieve their goal, the group gifted the building to Collier County in 1988 with the stipulation that it always be operated as a museum. 

After nearly a decade spent planning, fundraising, and securing grants, restoration of the building - which included raising the structure to minimize damage from storm surge and adding an ADA compliant entrance ramp on the side - began in 1997. 

Museum of the Everglades opened with great fanfare in April 1998 on the 70th Anniversary of the completion of the Tamiami Trail. Since that time the Museum has hosted thousands of visitors from around the world and continues to share the unique and fascinating history of our region with the help of a two-person staff of county employees and a group of volunteers.