The Boca Grande History Center celebrated its new location and the opening of the “Footprints from the Past” exhibition at the Crowninshield Community House. Former president of the Boca Grande Historical Society, Pam Heilman, expressed her emotional reaction upon entering the space, stating she “walked in quietly and I cried.” This moment marked a significant milestone for the Historical Society, which had long sought a proper venue for its operations.
Prior to this new development, the society operated in a cramped area behind Boca Bargains, a situation that limited their ability to showcase the island’s rich history. “The island deserves this,” Heilman remarked about the new facility, emphasizing its importance to the community.
The history center’s board previewed the exhibits on a Tuesday evening, ensuring that all displays, including an interactive map of Boca Grande, were fully operational. A series of preview events are planned leading up to the grand opening scheduled for next week.
The exhibit design was managed by Creative Arts Unlimited, a firm based in Pinellas Park, Florida. CEO Chuck Stanmore was present during the preview, highlighting his extensive experience working on historical projects for over three decades. Notable past projects include collaborations with retail giants and theme parks, showcasing his ability to blend storytelling with visual engagement.
Stanmore articulated the parallels between retail and museum design, stating, “You are trying to put out things that people will walk up and buy. We are storytellers. We need to know what the story is.” This insight reflects the philosophy behind the new exhibits, which aim to captivate a diverse audience.
The project was completed in just over a year and involved collaboration with the Boca Grande Historical Society staff and volunteers. They played a crucial role in selecting photos and narratives to effectively communicate the island’s history. “You want to engage all of your visitors,” Stanmore noted, stressing the importance of accessibility in storytelling.
Johns Knight, president of the Historical Society, explained the selection process for Creative Arts Unlimited. After researching potential firms online, he appreciated the personal touch that Stanmore and partner Roger Barganier brought by visiting Boca Grande to assess the project. Their commitment was evident, particularly in how they managed the exhibit pieces after hurricanes Helene and Milton disrupted initial plans.
“They built it in the shop,” Knight said, explaining that the pieces remained in storage until they were ready for installation in the new space. This dedication ensured that the project was executed seamlessly and met the expectations of the community.
The Boca Grande History Center stands poised to become a vital part of the island’s cultural landscape, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to connect with the area’s heritage. The grand opening is highly anticipated, with the community eager to explore the new space and its exhibits that celebrate Boca Grande’s past.
