Anna Maria Island Historical Society — Attraction in Anna Maria island

This is one of the more interesting and informative small "museums" we've visited, worldwide. Inside a small former ice-house, and next to the former jail. (We were told the real reason the jail had no windows or roof was that punishment was spending nights in a place with no screens at all, getting eaten alive by bugs. Might be true, given the bugs!) Whoever had the idea, and put the exhibits together, did a great job. The island is small, only really settled by people living here full time about 100 years ago. But there's a ton of history to be found, from Native Americans stopping on their way elsewhere, to the local surrounding fishing villages. Photographs are great as well, and there's a nice selection of books. Loads of archives, baskets, gear, maps, very well annotated and accessible. There's a great house just across from the jail, we were told it had been moved from the pier area by barge, though the docent wasn't quite sure that was correct. (Otherwise the docent was so knowledgeable that we finally had to ask her to leave us in the house for a bit so we could look around at our leisure!) Great collection of everything from tableware used on ships to children's clothing from back in the day. My only wish is that they'd be open on the weekends "in season". I can't...

Neat little museum that tells you about the history of Anna Maria Island. Free entry (donations accepted). A guide was there for questions. Really awesome collection of everyday artifacts from old island inhabitants. Could be a great learning opportunity for kids about how life used to be back in the day. Had a small souvenir/gift shop. The jail cell outside is a great photo opportunity. There is a small cabin next door too that is set up how it would have been in the past. Great stop for families or anyone interested in times past. Will put things into perspective on how far we've come when you're surrounded everywhere else by the commercial touristy aspects...

What a neat piece of history on the island. The home was once on the end of the pier. After the home was blown into the bay it was moved to another location on the island and remained for 75 years. Truly amazing for a wood structure. Then the community came to the rescue and moved it to its present location on N Shore where it’s available for viewing anytime from the outside or 3 hrs a day during the week. Lots of folks deserve credit for rehabbing the home. And the jail is original....