Welcome to the Old Laundry Building Historical Marker in Ochopee, Florida, a place with a rich tapestry of stories from the past. This building, completed in 1928, served as a community laundry facility for the workers and residents of what was then a growing settlement in the Everglades region. It was a time when the area was under significant development, largely due to the ambitions of Barron Collier, a notable figure who bought vast swathes of land to establish Collier County.
The Old Laundry Building is not just a reminder of the everyday lives of those who lived and worked here; it’s also a testament to the community spirit that prevailed. In 1965, the building took on a new role as the clubhouse for the Everglades Women’s Club, reflecting its ongoing importance to local social life. This transition marked a shift from practical utility to a focus on community gathering and cultural exchange.
In 1998, the building found new life as the Museum of the Everglades, which opened its doors to preserve and share the history of the southwest Everglades area. The museum’s exhibits span the ancient cultures that once thrived here, like the Calusa and Seminole peoples, as well as the pioneers and entrepreneurs who shaped the modern landscape. Visitors can explore the stories of Barron Collier and others who left a lasting imprint on the region.
Today, the Old Laundry Building stands as a cherished historical site, recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places since 2001. It continues to educate and engage visitors with the vibrant history of the Everglades, offering insights into the area’s development and the people who have called it home through the years.
