Historical Village Re-Opens Oct. 15th, Seeks Volunteers

October 2, 2019 – The Sanibel Historical Village re-opens October 15, Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Among this season’s highlights are several Twilight Talks and the village’s annual gala fundraiser, which will be held on February 18 at The Community House.

“We are again offering a reciprocal museum membership,” Alfino explained. “We have joined the North American Reciprocal Museum family, and a membership at the $150 level or above offers members free admission to more than 1,000 participating arts, cultural, and historical institutions along with botanical gardens, children’s museums, science and technology centers, and more. Many institutions include a discount at their gift shops.” Visit http://narmassociation.org for a complete list.

From left to right: Emilie Alfino, Executive Director; Sandy Nering, Front Desk Assistant; Rachel King, Business Manager; Jan Symroski, Volunteer Coordinator;

In addition, for the first time, members at the $150 level or above are invited to attend the museum’s “Volunteer Updates.” These are casual, relaxed talks by a wide variety of island icons and held for the benefit of our volunteer docents. Last season, for instance, the group heard Ralph Woodring tell stories as only he can and later Mariel Goss described the early days of the bike path. These talks are the first Mondays of December through March at Shore Haven at noon. New volunteers are always needed at the village. Training begins November 4 and 11. Interested people are encouraged to call Emilie at (239) 472-4648 or email info@sanibelmuseum.org. There are many different things for volunteers to do, so anyone can find something they like and are comfortable with, doing what they enjoy.

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is a nonprofit organization formed with the mission to preserve, share, and celebrate Sanibel’s history. The museum will remain open during the BIG ARTS construction project. The project will possibly continue through January, but parking and access for village guests and volunteers will be available throughout that time. The traditional entrance to the village has been closed off for the construction and a new, temporary entrance has been made available down the road to the west at what was formerly the exit drive. That drive will now function as both an entrance and exit access. Clear signage has been added at both places.

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village opens for season October 15. Hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Full guided tours take place at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. at no additional charge, depending on docent availability. The Sanibel Historical Village is located at 950 Dunlop Road (next to BIG ARTS) and there is handicap access. Admission is $10 for adults over 18. Members and children are free. For more information, call (239) 472-4648 during museum hours or visit www.sanibelmuseum.org.