Sanibel Island Florida History

The Calusa Indians were believed to be the first known inhabitants, living in harmony with nature. Seashells were crafted into tools. The area, to this day, is a sanctuary for nature and wildlife with minimal commercial intrusion. Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon discovered Sanibel Island in the 1500s, calling it “Santa Isybella” after Queen Isabella. Constant fighting with the Calusa Indians was the major reason he was unable to establish permanent settlements. The barrier islands became home to pirates who attacked commercial vessels; the most notable was Jose Gaspar. It wasn’t until 1833 that the area’s first settlers arrived due to a private New York land investment program. The Civil War and Seminole Wars made it difficult to develop, although the U.S. military established forts to protect the land for settlers. In 1884 Sanibel Island’s lighthouse was built, still working today, and by 1890, there were 21 houses and 40 families. Sanibel built its first schoolhouse, known today as the Sanibel Historical Village. With its mild climate, warm waters and beautiful natural landscape, Sanibel Island brings thousands of visitors each year with development kept at bay to preserve this gem of Florida’s historic wilderness.