Estero Island Historic Society Newsletter

Save These Dates

The Estero Island Historic Society is excited to announce another engaging season of programs, presentations, and community events for 2026–2027. As members will see in our “Save the Date” graphic, we have a full calendar planned that celebrates the rich history, culture, and natural environment of Fort Myers Beach.

We are especially excited to continue our popular monthly speaker series during January, February, and March. These presentations have become a favorite tradition for residents and visitors alike, offering fascinating stories, local history, and insight into the people and events that shaped our island community.

This coming season, our mini lectures will continue at the Cottage. These smaller, more informal programs will provide opportunities for members and guests to gather in a relaxed setting while exploring unique topics from Estero Island’s past.

Our “Diving into the Decades” series will continue as well, picking up in the 1930s and carrying us through the 1960s. The series has generated tremendous enthusiasm, and we look forward to sharing more photographs, memories, and stories from these transformative decades on Fort Myers Beach.

Fans of our Murder Mystery presentations can expect new stories and investigations this season, along with what we hope will include a special book signing event.

During the summer months, we are pleased to partner once again with the Ostego Bay Foundation to host Science Camps, helping introduce younger generations to the ecology and history of Estero Bay.

We are also hearing encouraging news that Matanzas Pass Preserve may reopen this summer. We look forward to returning to the preserve with additional programs and special events planned there in the future.

There is much more ahead, and we cannot wait to share another exciting season with our members and the community. Stay tuned for additional announcements and details in our next newsletter and on Facebook.

Kid's Fishing Tournament

The annual Ostego Bay Kids Fishing Tournament will be held Saturday, June 27, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Moss Marina . 

This popular summertime event is free to all children aged 3 to 15 and offers a morning of fishing, fun and family activities on the waterfront. 

Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. Participants need to bring their own fishing rod and bait. 

We will provide bait and lunch. The event is open to all abilities of fisherman and is a great opportunity for kids to get out, enjoy the outdoors and learn about local fishing traditions.

The tournament has become a favorite community event for kids and adults, creating lasting experiences while appreciating the natural beauty of Estero Bay and Fort Myers Beach

Kid's Summer Camp

The Ostego Bay Foundation will once again offer its popular Summer Science Camp at our Bay Road campus this summer.

The camp provides students with an exciting opportunity to explore the ecology and marine environment of Estero Bay through hands-on learning and outdoor activities.

Camps are held Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with all instructional materials provided.

The cost is $300 per child. Parents are responsible for transportation to and from camp each day, and campers should bring a lunch and plenty to drink.

A special graduation luncheon will be provided by the Center on the final day of camp.

The camp is located at the Estero Island Historic Society campus at 161 Bay Road, Fort Myers Beach, behind the Beach School and adjacent to the entrance of Matanzas Pass Preserve.

For additional information and registration details, visit Ostego Bay Summer Camp.

Murder Mystery Book Under Construction

The tremendous response to our Murder Mystery Series has inspired the Estero Island Historic Society to begin work on an exciting new book featuring many of the legends, mysteries, and fascinating stories that have become part of the culture and history of Fort Myers Beach.

The accompanying graphic provides a preview of the chapters and stories we have completed so far. We currently have approximately four additional chapters still in progress, and we are excited about how the project is coming together. The book will combine historical research, island lore, and some of the most intriguing unsolved stories connected to Estero Island.

As we finish up the writing and editing, we will be looking for a graphic designer who can assist with both the interior layout and the cover design. Once the design process is complete, we will evaluate printing options and determine the best way forward.

Our goal is to have the book ready for release during our December Holiday Open House. We believe it will make a wonderful addition to any local history collection and a perfect gift for those who love Fort Myers Beach history and mystery.

Once printing costs are finalized, we plan to begin offering pre-order sales. Stay tuned for additional updates as this exciting project continues to develop!

Brick Sales Under Way

The EIHS walkway brick project continues to move forward beautifully. We have already submitted more than 25 orders to the engraver and hope to have all of the bricks ready for a dedication this fall.

If you ordered a brick, you should have received an email asking what you would like engraved. Once we prepared a proof showing how your brick would appear, we sent it to you for approval. After approval, your order was forwarded to the engraver.

If you have not yet ordered your commemorative brick, it is not too late. Simply visit our website, click on the online store, and begin the process. Your brick will become a lasting part of the EIHS walkway for years to come.