If you ever get to South Florida, and you enjoy the way it used to be, you need to schedule a trip to Everglades City to see the Rod & Gun Club. Nestled at the end of the road, it is like you are traveling back in time as you drive south on highway 29 until you can’t drive anymore…..
Originally constructed in 1864 by the first settlers here, it was purchased by the wealthy Barron Collier, Florida land baron, in 1922. The lodge survived Hurricane Donna in 1960, and a fire in 1969. In 1974 it was rescued by the current owners, the Bowen family, who have kept it as it was, a thriving club for the wealthy hunters and fisherman from the 20’s through the 60’s.
Here are a few views of the outside, wait until you see inside!
It has been visited by 5 presidents, and many other rich and famous guests like Ernest Hemmingway, John Wayne, Bert Reynolds, Sean Connery, Mick Jaggar and many others.
If you are looking for what the locals call “Old Florida”, nothing can compare to this! As a fishing tackle collector, this is our Disney World!
Take a peek inside!
Now if you love antique tackle, you have to see this!
Take a look at the panther and the marlin!
The old newspaper articles capture the history.
A few more parting shots. If you enjoy “Old Florida”, make sure you put this on your bucket list.
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