Historical Markers on Marco

If you've ever visited our fantastic museum or are following the Marco Island Historical Society on Facebook, you should be well aware our wonderful Island possesses a vast amount of history, and Marco had its fair share of residents prior to the Deltona Company's dealings in the 1960s. As a testament to this fact, historical markers scatter the Marco Estates area, where the majority of settlers resided in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These markers appear in the form of rocks with an affixed plaque describing the significance of the site. Up for a little drive around the area? Here are a few markers you could come across, as well as what they signify. 

Pineapple Plantation Marker

Located on South Barfield Drive on the opposite side of Wesley United Methodist Church, this marker pays tribute to the pineapple plantation that existed on the Island from 1901-1905. This plantation, founded by Frank Ludlow, was believed to be the largest pineapple producer in the state of Florida. The inscription reads: “Pineapple Plantation, 1901 – 1905. Early Agricultural venture; plantation and warehouse on Caxambas Ridge. Hurricane with salt water surge destroyed crops and soil.” Additionally, a street on the Island was named for Ludlow, and is located in the Marco Estates as well.

Caxambas Cemetery Marker

Located on Inlet Drive between Travida Terrace and Olds Court, this marker notes where the old cemetery once existed on the Island. Established around 1890, this cemetery was more modest in nature, and was likely a far cry from the present cemetery off of Bald Eagle Drive. However, as the plaque states, this was a common way to respect the dead at the time. 

Burnham Clam Factory

Located on Inlet Drive (just after passing Osceola), another marker commemorates the economic prowess of the Burnham Clam Factory during the early 20^th century. Before tourism dominated the land, other means of commerce and income were necessary to sustain Marco's economy. The Burnham Clam Factory represented a massive source of economic prowess in the first quarter of the 20th century before shutting down in 1929, when the clam beds were no longer sustainable. While we are doing fine just now, this factory helped the Island get started up financially.  

Indian Hill/Barfield Homesite Marker

Located on the corner of Scott Drive and Indian Hill Street, the final marker discussed in this article pays tribute to numerous historical phenomena on the Island. Firstly, the marker acknowledged Indian Hill (formally "The Heights") as the highest natural point in Southwest Florida, coming in at 51 feet. This marker also signifies the site where the Heights Hotel used to stand in 1908. Furthermore, the plaque also denotes the home of Tommie and JM Barfield, two massively prominent figures in the development of what would become Marco Island. Finally, the plaque points out the site of the Caxambas School, the original school on the Island from 1890-1928. So much happening in this one spot!

Next time you find yourself cruising around the Marco Estates and taking in the prime real estate, do be sure to look out for these markers!