History Heroes

Check Out the 2023 Sarasota Heritage Award Winners

The awards honor the work of people and organizations committed to preserving Sarasota County's historical resources.

03/31/2023 By Kim Doleatto

Come On Barbie, Let's Go Party

History Day in the Park Will Highlight Sarasota's Fascinating Connection to Barbie

The Edson Keith Mansion's last owner was Mae Hansen Prodie, a successful traveling toy salesperson who developed her own line of dolls.

03/22/2023 By Staff

History Lesson

The Short Film Spare Me Reveals Sarasota's History as a Sundown Town

Local film student and director Will Mauricette touches on the history of racism in Sarasota through a father-son relationship in his latest film.

03/03/2023 By Kim Doleatto

Cold Case

The Heist That Rocked Sarasota's Art World

In 1969, thieves made off with 15 of Ben Stahl’s most famous paintings. The heist ruined him financially and left behind a mystery that has never been solved.

03/03/2023 By Robert Plunket

Plot Twist

Finding Your Roots Is Easier Than Ever. But For Some Sarasotans, the Results Weren’t What They Expected

Some genealogy seekers have a passion for history ignited early in life. Others experience a triggering incident.

03/01/2023 By Emily Leinfuss

Flashback

Payne Park Was The First Site for Spring Training in Sarasota, 1924-1990

New York Giants' manager John J. "Mugsy" McGraw was the first to bring a team for spring training here.

02/24/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Civil Rights

The Vital History of Newtown's Freedom Schools

A 1969 student boycott helped save schools in the historic Black neighborhood.

02/23/2023 By Jessika Ward

Flashback

Sarasota Was Home to Baseball Legend Buck O'Neil (1911-2006)

In honor of Black History Month and the upcoming spring training season, we're remembering one of the most beloved players in baseball.

02/17/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Flashback

Sarasota Sailing Regatta, 1961

With plenty of sailing events happening regularly here, here's a look back at a regatta from 1961.

01/27/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Old Flame

A New Program Seeks to Save Sarasota's Historic Homes and Buildings Forever

Property owners can now apply for an easement that bars demolition in perpetuity.

01/27/2023 By Kim Doleatto

Flashback

The Longboat Key Ritz-Carlton, 1926-1963

John Ringling's hotel broke ground in 1926 but was never finished or occupied, and was eventually demolished in 1963.

01/20/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Time Machine

Stroll Through Sarasota History With an Interactive Walking Tour

Compass Rose History Experiences is exploring the boom and bust of 1926 Sarasota and the resilience of the community during the Great Depression and World War II.

01/17/2023 By Kim Doleatto