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Bonnet House Independence

It’s official! Bonnet House Museum & Gardens has taken title to the entire 35 acre estate. The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation has recently signed over the deed to the historic property, and this transfer of ownership will allow Bonnet House to continue directly managing the estate, as it has since 1990. This was the fortunate result of a property reorganization agreement that was entered in February.

In 2019, The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation made an attempt to manage the estate’s preservation, however outcry from our local Fort Lauderdale community halted those plans. Patrick Shavloske, Bonnet House’s CEO states: “The board, staff and volunteers are all relieved to see this chapter in the property’s history come to a final conclusion…We can now focus all our efforts on preserving the estate and developing programming that meets the community’s needs. We estimate that since January 1st, 2020, the reorganization has saved Bonnet House well over $100,000, and with the impact of COVID19, such savings are even more important.”

As of June 2nd, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is officially open to the public in its entirety for self guided tours. To abide by social distancing guidelines, they have set up a one way route for guests to walk throughout the Main House. They have even developed a mobile app that features recorded information about the BirchBartlett family, the unique art collection, and many interesting stops along the tour, including the Bridge/Boat House, studio, courtyard, butler’s pantry, kitchen, Shell Museum/Orchid House/Bamboo Bar and more.

Admission costs $20 for the house and grounds tours, $10 for the grounds only tour, and is free for our members. Daily visits will take place Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, with early access for members and visitors with health vulnerabilities from 9:00 am. to 10:00 am.

There is so much to celebrate here at Bonnet House. Whether it’s the recent update in Bonnet House ownership, or our 100th Anniversary, we hope that you come visit us soon! Tickets can be purchased onsite at the Welcome Center, or you can purchase tickets ahead of time, here.

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