Welcome to the Sails to Rails Museum at Flagler Station in Key West, Florida. This museum offers a captivating glimpse into the bold vision of Henry Flagler, a man whose dreams literally changed the landscape of Florida.
In the late 19th century, Henry Flagler, co-founder of Standard Oil, turned his attention to Florida, envisioning it as a luxurious retreat. After building a series of opulent hotels along the state’s east coast, Flagler embarked on his most ambitious project yet: the Overseas Railroad. Beginning in 1905, this incredible engineering feat extended the Florida East Coast Railway over the ocean to Key West, completed by 1912. Often dubbed ‘Flagler’s Folly’ for its perceived impossibility, the railroad was a marvel of its time, linking the mainland to the southernmost point of the United States and opening up new possibilities for commerce and tourism.
As you explore the museum, you’ll find interactive exhibits detailing the challenges and triumphs of constructing the railroad. Imagine the determination and ingenuity required to lay tracks across more than 100 miles of open water. A highlight of the museum is the intricate model of Fort Jefferson, a massive coastal fortress that played a significant role in the region’s history.
The Sails to Rails Museum not only delves into the Age of Rail but also takes you back to the Age of Sail, when the waters around Key West were a hub of activity, with treasure-laden Spanish galleons, pirates, and merchant ships. This era laid the foundation for Key West’s rich history in industries such as sponging, turtling, fishing, and cigar making.
Throughout your visit, you’ll encounter stories of the people who lived and worked here, from the pioneers who braved the elements to build the railroad to the communities that thrived because of it. The museum paints a vivid picture of how Key West evolved from a remote island into a vital link in America’s transportation network.
Whether you arrive by the famous Conch Train or on foot, the Sails to Rails Museum offers an educational journey through time, providing insights into how one man’s vision could transform a state and connect it to the broader world.
