Anna Maria Historical Society presents fourth marker
Sunday, April 5th, 2009
Anna Maria Historical Society
ANNA MARIA, FLA – April 3, 2009 The Anna Maria Island Historical Society (AMIHS) will be presenting its fourth historic marker to The Island Playhouse in Anna Maria at 7 p.m. on April 13th, 2009.
The playhouse, a building of great historical Island importance and was originally the home of the William H. Gillett family of Parrish, Florida. The all-wood structure was first established as the Anna Maria Tourist Center. The center greeted visitors who came from Tampa and St. Petersburg on excursion boats.
In 1923, the City of Anna Maria, Florida incorporated. The city soon became a center of activity as all city business was conducted on Anna Maria. The now playhouse also served as a community hall and was used for social gatherings, club meetings, church services, a schoolroom and even included an Island community theater.
In the 1970s the playhouse faced major renovations. The stage was lifted, 137 seats were installed in seven tiered rows and the floors were carpeted. The ticket sales operation was able to move to the theater. The previous ticket office was from volunteer’s homes.
The 2009 season marks Island Players’ 60th anniversary. The season sums up with their last show in May when “Alone Together Again” by Lawrence Roman closes. The show takes place from May 14th to the 24th, 2009.
Worried about the loss of the historic structures to development, the Anna Maria Island Historical Society is recognizing the structures by presenting plaques to their owners. If you would like your structure recognized, you may apply in person to the Island Historical Museum and provide proof of the structure’s age. All applicable building must be at least 50 years of age. Once approved by the AMIHS board, your building will be added to the Florida Master Site File in Tallahassee and a plaque will be granted. The cost will be $125.
The Anna Maria Island Historical Society museum is located directly across from the Island Real Estate – Pine Avenue Restoration office. The museum provides fantastic historical information on Anna Maria Island. A must visit if vacationing on Anna Maria Island! For an interesting video taken while in the historical society visit this you tube video.
