239-472-4648
The garden at the Sanibel Historical Village demonstrates how people lived on Sanibel from the 1800s through 1920s.
The Sanibel Historical Village is sharing the bounty from its garden with FISH (Friends In Service Here), to help them help people in need.
The village’s garden produces tomatoes, cabbage, beans, peas, radishes, turnips, rutabaga, and more. “We have the garden as a way to demonstrate that Sanibel was not always a tourist economy but started as an agricultural community,” said museum manager Emilie Alfino. “That is one of the more surprising things our guests learn. We are so pleased to be able to help FISH at the same time we’re educating people.”
Village farmer and volunteer Mike DiCorpo devotes many hours to tending the garden, whether it’s a beautiful day, a rainy or windy day, or, as we have had recently, during a flood. “He’s always there,” Alfino said. “We’re very lucky to have such a devoted and talented volunteer.”
“I’m sure the pioneers on this island didn’t waste anything from their gardens, and we agree with that philosophy,” said DiCorpo. “I’m glad FISH is able to use the vegetables to help others. They’ve been a delight to work with, too.”
FISH and the Historical Village join forces. Left to right, Sherry Halleran, Jan Vap, farmer Mike DiCorpo, Liz Clark, and Lyn Kern.
“FISH and our clients greatly appreciate the generosity of the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village,” said Maggi Feiner, FISH President and CEO. “We cannot thank Mike DiCorpo enough for working in their beautiful garden, supplying healthy choices for our clients, and delivering such lovely, freshly picked treats! Last year, over 350households used our food pantry throughout the year, many of which are large families. Fresh vegetables are always the first to go out the door! It’s heartwarming to know that the Historical Museum and Mike care about the health and well-being of our island neighbors.”
The historical village is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. The village is located at 950 Dunlop Road (next to BIG ARTS). Admission is $10 for adults 18 and older; those under 18 and members are free. Docent-guided tours are available at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. at no extra charge, based upon docent availability. There is handicap access to all buildings. For information, call 472-4648 during business hours or visit www.sanibelmuseum.org.