Queen of Marco and the Creation of Collier County at Marco Island Historical Museum

The Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) presents a new exhibit, Queen of Marco and the Creation of Collier County, at the Marco Island Historical Museum (MIHM), May 9 through August 5, 2023. The exhibit is part of Collier County’s centennial celebration. There will be an opening reception on May 11 from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. The exhibit is generously sponsored by Jenny Avila.

The exhibit explores the role played by beloved resident Tommie Barfield in creating Collier County. Known by many as the Queen of Marco, she was a staunch lobbyist for Marco Island’s needs when it was still a part of Lee County.

When Barron G. Collier set his sights on creating Collier County and developing the area, he knew he needed Tommie Barfield’s support to achieve his goals. He sent her to Tallahassee to plead his case. The bill passed, creating Collier County in May of 1923.

As a pioneer of Marco Island, Barfield was an entrepreneur, hotelier, postmistress and mother. She later became superintendent of education and is the namesake of Tommie Barfield Elementary School on Marco Island. She and her husband, James Madison Barfield, raised their three daughters and niece in Caxambas on the south part of Marco Island.

The Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is free. For information, call 239.389.6447 or visit www.theMIHS.org.