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The Central Voice of
Naples History
Naples, Florida
Preserve the history of Naples one member, one tour, one child, one old-timer, one story, one event at a time!
Our Tours
Our Events
View an 18-minute video about historic rehabilitation in Naples and see interior footage of how historic houses transform into prized gems!
the number of 4th & 5th grade Collier County students who learn about the history of naples every year.
THE NUMBER OF SATISFIED VISITORS WHO EXPERIENCED NAPLES HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S HISTORIC PALM COTTAGE OVER THE DECADES.
Such a gorgeous house with so much history. Loved seeing the small garden too. The man that checked us in was so friendly and told us a lot about current day Naples which I appreciated. John, our tour guide, was great and told us so much about the house and life in early naples. He made us feel so comfortable and answered lots of questions. So glad we stopped in!
Tours, Lectures, Events and Programs!
House & Walking Tours
Naples Historical Society is proud to offer two exceptional tours for your enjoyment: Tours of Historic Palm Cottage and Walking Tours of the Naples Historic District. Both are exceptional and regardless of which tour you choose, you will have an enlightened understanding of local history that cannot be found elsewhere. Which to choose?
garden side chickee chat (lectures)
This annual winter lecture series features local experts who showcase a variety of topics related to our history. Past topics include a history of swamp buggies, art in Naples, waterfronts of Naples, southern-style bluegrass, and so much more!
Society Events
Naples Historical Society presents a host of exciting and memorable events throughout the year! There is no better way to engage our members and make new friends other than to showcase and share Historic Palm Cottage in many different ways. What suits your fancy: Christmas? Scotch? Croquet? Old-Fashioned Cocktails? Garden Games? Sharing stories? We have it all!
educational programs
Naples Historical Society is proud to share Historic Palm Cottage and the stories about Naples’ history with the community. To that end, we host a multitude of educational programs available for every person interested in history: young or mature, resident or visitor, preservationist or for those who are simply curious!
INFORM INSPIRE INVOLVE
Step into the Past and Discover the Future
Something new is coming to Naples, Florida in 2025. Join us for the Grand Opening of the Smith Exhibit Hall™ an interactive historical museum adjacent to Historic Palm Cottage™, on Friday & Saturday, February 7 & 8, 2025, 12 – 4 pm. Free Admission.
Outside, guests will meander winding brick pathways (you may spot a brick or fence picket with your name on it!) and enjoy history stations chronicling Naples’ colorful past or relax on a bench and just take in the beauty.
Inside, history comes alive through a multimedia mix for the senses. Guests are surrounded by educational displays, historic photos, and the chance to hear treasured oral histories. All this and other memorabilia will transport you back to the earliest days of life in Naples. I think you will agree that it’s a great experience for all ages!
My heartfelt thanks to longtime donors Mary & Stephen Byron Smith whose generous gift was matched by many other donors who believe in preserving Naples’ history for generations to come. Thanks to all our donors, Naples Historical Society was able to purchase this structure adjacent to Historic Palm Cottage™ to create this museum ensuring the heart of Old Naples Historic District retains its historic charm.
Since starting as Executive Director in August 2024, I have an appreciation of our amazing staff, the Board of Directors, and the contractors. We were truly challenged by “Mother Nature” with Hurricanes Milton and Helene. It is a miracle both buildings were spared from flooding, however, they still presented capital improvement challenges.
Naples Historical Society is committed to doing our part to inform, inspire, and involve our friends, neighbors, and visitors with our local history. The mission of Naples Historical Society is to preserve Naples’ history and heritage for the community and future generations to enjoy. Join us as a member, attend our events, volunteer your time, stroll the streets on an official walking tour, and visit both museums.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I am interested in meeting all of you. I care about your passion to help us continue to be The Central Voice of Naples’ History.
With appreciation,
Nancy F. Dagher, MBA
Pupils at Historic Palm Cottage
Naples Historical Society is proud to partner with the local educational community, including all public and private schools, by providing FREE field trips for history students.
Garden Side Chickee Chats
This annual lecture series in the heart of the season features local experts who showcase a variety of topics related to our history.
Society Events
“If These Walls Could Talk” – As the community continues to grow and embrace new friends, seasonal or permanent residents, it is vital to maintain a connection with the past.
House & Walking Tours
Let us lead you on a one-mile walking tour through the Naples Historic District, a Landmark listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Volunteer for the Society
Our Partners & Sponsors
