Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum

AMIHS Museum
Our museum building was constructed in 1920 as an icehouse. It went on to serve as an automotive garage, a sea turtle hatchery, and a public administration building. In 1992, the City of Anna Maria began leasing the building to the Historical Society for use as a museum.
The museum’s exhibits tell the story of the first settlers on the Island and the legacy they left behind. It also covers the Island’s fishing and baseball history. It includes archives of records and newspapers for research into families and businesses.

Belle Haven

This historical cottage was originally built on the City Pier in 1920. In 1926, the cottage fell into the bay. It was pulled from the waters and became a family home on the Island for almost 50 years. In 2001, the cottage was moved to the Historical Park to save it from demolition. Lovingly restored in 2006 with money raised by the

AMI Historical Society, the Belle Haven Cottage is now furnished with heirlooms and antiques demonstrating early island life.

The Old City Jail

The city jail was built in 1927 to “quarter the rowdies” who had had a bit too much to drink at the local tavern and dance hall. The jail was used until the 1940s, when it caught fire. The wooden roof burned away, but the original tabby structure remained. The city decided to use the old jail as a photo op for visitors, so it was left standing and painted with its current slogan.

The jail is one of the most photographed attractions on the Island. Join a now 60 year tradition by taking a picture of yourself with the Old City Jail.