T
he Captiva Island Historical Society is pleased to name Jewel Jensen as its archivist, bringing her experience in historical research, preservation, and archival work to the CIHS’s growing online archives.
In her new role, Jewel will help preserve and organize historical photographs, documents, artifacts, and other materials while making them more accessible through the CIHS’s online platform. She will also assist with research inquiries, helping connect people with the stories and resources that illuminate Captiva’s past.
“Jewel’s research skills and passion for history continue to bring new depth to our walking tours. We are delighted and grateful that she has accepted t
he role of CIHS archivist, bringing that same energy, insight and devotion to preserving and sharing Captiva’s history,” said CIHS President Tom Libonate.
A retired educator, Jewel originally joined the CIHS Board of Directors in 2018. Her curiosity, organizational skills, and enthusiasm for sharing history contributed to projects ranging from grant writing to the development of docent-led walking tours of Captiva’s historic landmarks.
Her commitment to history extends beyond Captiva. While living on Sanibel, she served on the Sanibel Hi
storic Preservation Committee and volunteered as a docent at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village. After relocating to Geneva, Illinois, to be closer to her grandchildren, she served on the Geneva Historic Preservation Commission from 2021 to 2026 and became involved with the Geneva History Museum as a board member, officer, docent, and archives volunteer. Her work with Wisconsin’s Fontana Public Library has included organizing archives, conducting historical research, and making archival materials more accessible to the public.
As a member of the CIHS Advisory Committee, Jewel has also resumed researching, developing, and leading the CIHS’s walking tours of historic island landmarks. Her research has uncovered little-known details about Captiva’s people and places, including the life of William Binder, the island’s first homesteader.
Jewel’s appointment supports the CIHS’s continuing mission of gathering, preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of Captiva Island and its people.