Hurricane Donna and the Resilience of a Community
One of the most memorable exhibits focuses on Hurricane Donna, the devastating storm that struck Everglades City in 1960. Photographs and survivor testimonies recount how the community was nearly wiped out by winds and flooding. Yet, the people rebuilt, embodying the same resilience that has defined Everglades life for generations. The museum preserves artifacts recovered from the storm and pays tribute to the human spirit that refused to yield to nature’s fury.Cultural Identity and Local Traditions
The museum also serves as a showcase for the folk culture of the region. Fishing, hunting, and airboating—once everyday activities—are presented as cultural traditions deeply tied to the Everglades’ rhythm. Exhibits include handcrafted tools, nets, and boats that represent the ingenuity of local craftsmanship. These objects speak of an economy and a lifestyle shaped by respect for the environment and mutual dependence among neighbors.
Special attention is given to the Miccosukee and Seminole peoples, who maintain their artistic and spiritual traditions. Displays of patchwork clothing, beadwork, and wood carvings reveal the continuity of indigenous creativity amid modern challenges.
The Museum as an Educational Beacon
Since its opening, the Museum of the Everglades has become a center for education, research, and community engagement. School programs bring students from across Collier County to learn about the history, ecology, and cultures of the Everglades. Educational exhibits are designed to inspire not only curiosity but also stewardship. By connecting young minds to the stories of the past, the museum fosters an understanding that preservation and progress can coexist.
Public lectures, art exhibits, and cultural festivals hosted by the museum further expand its role beyond static displays. These events invite collaboration between historians, scientists, artists, and tribal leaders—each offering perspectives that enrich the collective understanding of the region. shutdown123