By Peter Roos
The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum is located on the grounds of the first church of the local barrier islands. Built in 1917 of rusticated block, the Pass-a-Grille Community Church was a staple of the growing island town throughout the years. But in 1959, its membership outgrew the small building, and a new church was built 6 blocks north.
Bound for the wrecking ball, the original church property was saved by Joan Haley (pictured below), a widowed journalist who had moved to the beach in 1952 from Washington, D.C. Her passion for historic preservation, love of antiques, and curiosity about the area prompted her to sell her bayfront property, purchase the old church and make it her very special home. Upon her death in 1989, Mrs. Haley left the church property to Pinellas County to be used as an island museum.
After updating, cleaning, and refurbishing, the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum opened to the public in March 1993. A non-profit support organization was formed, volunteers were recruited, artifacts gathered, and with hard work the museum has grown to become a real island treasure. The museum is operated entirely by volunteers, and their mission is “To collect, preserve and exhibit the history of the barrier islands.”The permanent collection includes a timeline display from 1500 to present, hundreds of then and now photos and maps, postcards, local school yearbooks, Haley’s personal memorabilia, a WWII exhibit, artifacts from island churches, special exhibits about “The Sunshine School” (a public school unique to Pass-a-Grille), and a special Don CeSar Hotel display.
Manned solely by volunteers, the museum opens from 10am-4pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 1-4pm Sundays. The museum also has a gift shop featuring books, local art, vintage-style wares, and island-inspired items for visitors of all ages.
In upcoming issues of Paradise News, we will share a few notable tales of local lore, introducing some of the colorful characters who were barrier island pioneers, like Silas Dent, Joseph Merry and Frank Hurley. If you haven’t already, subscribe to get those coming issues in print HERE.
The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum’s Island Festival is back! March 23rd from 11:30am-4pm. Join the annual FUN-raiser. Car show on 9th Avenue. Food and craft vendors on 10th. Hot dogs & hamburgers from our local firemen. Mikey Shaner will be serving up some yummy eats and Jason of Grillin & Chillin brings his delicious BBQ and sides. Beer & Wine. 50/50 drawing. Raffle baskets with lots of local goodness! Cabana Dogs playing your favorite island tunes from 12-4. Museum will be open 10-4.
Gulf Beaches Historical Museum 115 10th Ave., St. Pete Beach • 727-552-1610 www.gulfbeachesmuseum.org
