Before Hurricane Irma, the Welcome Center in Carnestown at the corner of SR29/US41 was the busiest welcome/visitor center in Collier County. Unfortunately, the Welcome Center was forced to close after the damage from the 2017 hurricane. Soon afterwards, our Chamber of Commerce was dissolved and left a void in welcoming tourists to our area. The Everglades Society for Historic Preservation took up the challenge of re-opening a visitor center in the Glades Building, thanks to Craig Woodward.

Everglades Society for Historic Preservation (ESHP) would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the 14 wonderful volunteers who have greeted people from around the world during our busiest season. We’ve had a lot of fun getting to know one another, and every volunteer has expressed their delight in talking to the many interesting people visiting Everglades City, many who are experiencing our area for the first time.

Now that our winter residents are starting to return to their other homes, ESHP is seeking assistance from locals to volunteer at our Visitor Center. You are guaranteed to love it, if you enjoy meeting new people from around the world. Please call me at (239) 719-0020 if you would like more information.

And, to all those leaving, have a safe trip home and we will see you next year!!