CLOSED: TOURS WILL BE AVAILABLE OCT. 15

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Sanibel Historical Village Opens for New Season With Volunteer Training and Opportunities

The Sanibel Historical Village Opens October 15 — Volunteer Training Starts November 3 for New and Returning Supporters.

Volunteer Relations Committee members Julie Peress (Chair), Gayle Pence and Mary Henderson have been planning an active volunteer season at the Village.

The Village announces it is opening on Wednesday, October 15. We look forward to an engaging season with visitors, programs, events, and more. Our new days of operation are Wednesday through Sunday.

Contributions of volunteers are important for the Museum to meet its mission to preserve, share and celebrate Sanibel. New volunteers are always welcomed. The first series of volunteer training will be held on Mondays, November 3 and 10, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in Shore Haven. Those interested in sharing their time and talents can call (239) 472-4648 or email info@sanibelmuseum.org to register. Current volunteers are also encouraged to attend.

“We are always excited to welcome new docents,” said Volunteer Committee Member Gayle Pence. “Training is fun, and we provide a manual with all the information needed to fulfill any position at the Village. Our volunteers are always supported and encouraged.”

Volunteer Coordinator Terry Slater added, “There are many different roles for volunteers. Anyone can find something they like and are comfortable with, doing what they enjoy.” Opportunities include serving as a tour docent and/or guide, assisting with the Gift Shop, events and programs, and performing office work.

To inspire and celebrate our volunteers, gatherings are held monthly and include presentations on a variety of island topics and an annual appreciation luncheon. This season’s lineup includes stories from Sanibel, the Bailey family, and the Gavin family. They are held on the second Monday of the month, November through April, at the Village, beginning at noon.

Other highlights this season include the popular Twilight Talks series and the annual benefit, which will be held on January 30th at The Community House.

The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is a 501(c)3 organization that relies on membership fees, admissions, and charitable donations. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Founded in 1984, the Village is excited to welcome visitors during its 42nd year of preserving, sharing, and celebrating Sanibel’s history. The general tour experience includes an orientation video and eight historic buildings displaying numerous artifacts telling engaging stories. Much of the site is handicap accessible. The Rutland House remains closed post-Hurricane Ian.

The Village Gift Shop in Shore Haven is open during the regular schedule. Admission is not required to shop. Much of the merchandise is by local authors, artists and entrepreneurs.

The Village is located on Sanibel Island at 950 Dunlop Road (next to BIG ARTS) and parking is free.

Visit the Village’s website for more information about Sanibel’s history, events and programs during the 2025-2026 Season, and to sign up for our E-Newsletter: www.sanibelmuseum.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

PUNTA RASSA BEFORE THE BRIDGE

Feb 28, 2026

On Monday, March 9th, the volunteers at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village will have an opportunity to learn the “real story” of Punta Rassa from the grandchildren of Leon Crumpler and Clyde Riddle.

History of a Florida “Cracker”

Jan 17, 2026

Before tourism, theme parks, and booming cities, there was the Florida Cracker. “Crackers” are named from the sharp crack of long braided whip used by Florida cowmen to drive cattle through dense brush.