What Makes Estero Unique? Our History

Did you know Estero was once a thriving citrus and farming community—and even home to a utopian pioneer village? In celebration of our shared past, Engage Estero is honoring local history throughout July—and there’s no better place to start than with the Estero Historical Society.

Who Are They?

Founded by passionate resident Mimi Straub in 2000, the Estero Historical Society is a volunteer-driven nonprofit working to preserve, protect, and share the stories that shaped our village. Their mission is simple: make sure Estero’s past lives on for future generations.

Where Are They?

You’ll find the Society’s charming historic cottage and school house located at the west end of Estero Community Park at 9285 Corkscrew Palms Blvd. These buildings, lovingly restored and filled with artifacts, photos, and exhibits, offer a tangible window into early Estero life.

What Do They Do?

• Host tours, talks, and special events to connect residents to local history.
• Offer creative community programs like the Jewelry Making Class and for Kids (ages 7–11): Summer Kumihimo Beading – fun 90-minute classes held in the historic cottage
• Preserve and protect historic buildings like the 1904 School Hall, 1906 Cottage, and soon—the Historic Alvarez/Smith Home
• Maintain archives and photographs from Estero’s earliest settlers
• Partner with schools and organizations to educate and inspire

Why It Matters

Most of us didn’t grow up here—but we all live here now. Learning Estero’s story helps turn neighbors into community. As the Historical Society puts it: history gives us roots. Whether you’re from Chicago or Calgary, you can plant deeper roots in Estero by learning about the people, places, and traditions that helped shape our vibrant village.

Fun Facts I learned in one Short Visit:

• The Society’s 1906 Cottage once served as Estero’s post office!
• Early settlers grew citrus, castor beans, and farmed along the Estero River.
• Before screens and sprays, early Estero settlers had to get creative. They managed mosquitoes by burning palmetto roots and smudge pots: The thick smoke helped keep bugs away, especially in the evenings.
• The Koreshans—Estero’s original residents—believed the Earth was hollow!
• When the Tamiami Trail (US-41) was completed in 1928, it connected Tampa to Miami—hence the nameTami-ami. It was a bold and swamp-defying feat of engineering that passed right through Estero, opening Southwest Florida to travel, trade, and tourism. Early motorists had to dodge gators and bring extra tires—the roadbed was built on crushed limestone and often flooded during rainy season!

Want to Visit or Get Involved?

Sign up for a tour, take a class, or become a member! Learn more at http://esterohistoricalsociety.com, or follow them on Facebook to stay updated.

Let’s help raise awareness for this hidden gem—and together, deepen our roots in Estero.