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History Gallery
TAKE A CRUISE BACK IN TIME
Santiva
Before the Sanibel Causeway was completed in 1963 and opened for traffic from the mainland, the Santiva was one of a generation of mail boats that reliably traveled the waters of Pine Island Sound, ferrying passengers and delivering mail and provisions to the folks of Sanibel and Captiva Islands.
Though the actual mail boat is now just another island memory, you can take a virtual journey back to the simpler times of our islands aboard a replica of the Santiva, when you visit the History Gallery of the Captiva Island Historical Society.
Within the gallery, boat windows feature interpretive panels and touch screen access to historic photos, sure to excite one’s interest in island lore. Meet the Calusa Indians, the fishermen, the homesteaders and their families, all hardy residents of the islands.
Back in its day it cost $1.75 for a full day, 72-mile round trip excursion on the Santiva. Today you can make the journey for FREE, from the Captiva Island Historical Society’s Gallery, located in the Captiva Memorial Library, during library hours.
LOCATION:
Located in the Captiva Memorial Library, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva.
HOURS:
Accessible only during library operating hours.
Check the library website for hours by clicking the link below.
