Marco Island Historical Society Upcoming Events

Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) continues their informative and popular “Zoom In” series of virtual and in-person events with programs on the history and people of Marco Island and surrounding areas.  

October 9, 2025, 2:00 PM — Zoom In: Florida Talks: “Brother Scoundrels of Early Florida” by Florida Humanities speaker, David Head 

The early United States was a time of statesmen like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Thomas Jefferson. It was also a time of scoundrels, men who used the nation’s independence to seek their own fortunes, including three Kemper brothers who lived in Spanish West Florida in the early 1800s. Living on the border of Spain and the United States, the Kemper brothers turned a personal business grievance into a rebellion against Spanish rule and a bid for independence. David Head illustrates the complex loyalties of the region and U.S.-Spanish relations in this program. 

October 30, 2025, 6:00 PM — In Person: “Cemeteries of Collier County” by Collier County Museum Division Director, Amanda Townsend 

Did you know there are more than a dozen cemeteries throughout Collier County? From the grand and manicured grounds of Palm Royale to hidden family plots tucked away in rural corners, our community has honored its loved ones through burial traditions dating back to 1869. Explore a photographic journey through Collier’s historic cemeteries and discover what’s being done to recognize forgotten gravesites—some you likely pass every day without even realizing. 

November 6, 2025, 2:00 PM — Zoom In: Florida Talks: “Outpost to Statehood: The Florida Territory’” by Florida Humanities speaker, Rodney Kite-Powell 

Many of the events and themes that appeared on a large scale throughout the United States in the years leading up to the Civil War were also evident in Florida during its time as a US Territory, from 1821 to 1845. Told through the use of historic maps, this presentation showcases how Florida was home to many important events and trends that preceded those in the American West after the Civil War. 

Visit themihs.org or call 239-389-6447 for more information. 

The Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free and the site is fully ADA compliant and accessible to all visitors. For information call 239-389-6447 or visit www.themihs.org.