Key West 200th – Celebrating History, Culture & Community

Key West’s founders battled Indians, pirates, and deadly diseases, before establishing a permanent settlement here in1822. Today, Parrotheads, Hemingway aficionados, and sun worshipers view this bizarre and remarkable island as a tropical paradise where scores of writers have set tales of mystery and romance.

Native Americans

Key West commemorates its 200 years of history, food, culture, art, and more with a year-long Bicentennial Celebration that kicks off this Spring. There will be lots of events (see page 30), activities, exhibits, and historical lectures taking place with more special happenings throughout the year.

Now through December 11, the Custom House Museum is staging “Key West 200” which explores Key West’s people, culture and community. The exhibit begins with settlers and government officials arriving on the remote island in 1822 and traces its historical milestones including the Civil War, Great Depression and World War II.

Centerpiece artifacts include sponging equipment; cigar roller tables and tools; nineteenth century homewares, clothing, journals and photographs; Overseas Railway memorabilia; Ernest Hemingway’s boxing gloves; Native American tools; Key West Hand Print dresses; and artwork created by Cuban-American folk artist Mario Sanchez.

Tourism is just a tiny portion of Key West’s story. The true breadth, depth and diversity of this island is so much more — a remarkably captivating history to celebrate.