Marco Island Historical Society Bringing Fresh New Look to Museum Lobby

The Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) announces that work has begun on the Marco Island Historical Museum (MIHM) lobby completion project — a collaboration between MIHS and Collier County. Work on the lobby is scheduled to begin soon with completion late fall. There will be no disruption in visitor experience while the work is in progress.

“We soon will realize our vision for the completion of the Museum lobby as a fifth exhibit space so that visitors will immediately be engaged in the storytelling that brings to life the unique and fascinating history of Marco Island,” says MIHS Chief Executive Officer Pat Rutledge. 

Since MIHM opened in 2011, MIHS has successfully completed four major permanent exhibits: Windows & Doors to History; Paradise Found: 6,000 Years of People on Marco Island; The Pioneer Era: A Tale of Two Villages; Modern Marco Island, and the Sandlin Gallery for rotating exhibits. This has been achieved working in partnership with Collier County, Collier County Museums, City of Marco Island, MIHS donors and community partners. “With these permanent exhibit galleries completed, it is now time to finish the dream by completing the Museum lobby so that it also functions as an exhibit space,” notes Rutledge.

A dynamic plan for the transformation of the current lobby space has been created by award-winning exhibit designers Creative Arts Unlimited, Inc. The plan calls for colorful wall panels that provide a “walk through time” snapshot of Marco Island from its prehistory to modern day. Striking three-dimensional suspended sculptures will serve as a visual timeline of Marco Island’s history while providing a sneak peek into what visitors will see once they enter the galleries.

The public is invited to become a part of this exciting Museum completion project by making a contribution. Donations of $1,000 or more will be recognized on a permanent donor plaque in the lobby. In addition, there are naming opportunities available for the impressively designed lobby exhibits. For information on donating to the lobby project, contact Pat Rutledge at 239-389-6447 or exec@themihs.org.

The Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is free, and the site is handicapped accessible. For general information visit www.themihs.org or call 239-252-1440.