Supporting Fort Lauderdale’s Historic Stranahan House: A Campaign to Preserve and Enrich Local Heritage
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Visitors should be able to walk on uneven surfaces and stairs; suitable for most fitness levels.
Overview
Discover Fort Lauderdale’s oldest historic site, the Stranahan House, and learn how the new Capital Campaign is set to transform it into a dynamic cultural hub. Support preservation and enjoy an immersive local history experience.
Donate to the Capital Campaign
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About This Adventure
Stranahan House, Fort Lauderdale's oldest historic site, is launching a Capital Campaign to enhance its cultural offerings. This exciting initiative will introduce a state-of-the-art education center, modern facilities, and a welcoming courtyard, creating a vibrant space for visitors and enriching the community's historical experience.
Fort Lauderdale’s oldest and most historically significant surviving structure is thrilled to announce the initiation of its highly anticipated Capital Campaign. The Capital Campaign aims to enhance Stranahan House's facilities and offerings, ensuring its continued significance as a vital cultural institution.
Proceeds from the Capital Campaign will facilitate the renovation and expansion of Stranahan House's facilities, beginning with the addition of The Egret Classroom, a state-of-the-art education center, and a modern catering kitchen designed by KitchenWorks. The project will also encompass ADA-compliant facilities, including restrooms, as well as an onsite archival and storage facility.
Across the newly designed Dwight & Virginia Rogers Celebration Courtyard, a new building will be erected to house a ticketing window and serve as a welcoming gateway for visitors to downtown Fort Lauderdale. This multifunctional space, generously funded by the City of Fort Lauderdale and Broward, Palm Beaches, and St. Lucie Realtors, will feature an event pavilion and serve as the new location for Stranahan House's gift shop, allowing for the creation of an engaging new exhibit within the historic structure.
Adventure Tips
Plan a weekday visit
Weekdays are less crowded, offering a more intimate experience of the historic exhibits and guided tours.
Wear comfortable shoes
The historic site has uneven wooden floors and outdoor courtyard areas, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Check for special events
The education center will host lectures and workshops—visit the website to time your trip with these unique offerings.
Respect preservation rules
Photography is allowed but avoid touching artifacts or furniture to help conserve the site’s integrity.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great egrets frequent the nearby riverbanks.
- Local butterflies such as the zebra longwing are common in surrounding gardens.
History
Built in 1901, the Stranahan House reflects Fort Lauderdale’s pioneering era and multigenerational family history.
Conservation
The Capital Campaign prioritizes sustainable building practices and community education to protect the site’s legacy and the local environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Fort Lauderdale
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for navigating historic wooden floors and outdoor areas safely.
Sun hat or cap
Provides sun protection during courtyard exploration.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone
Ideal for capturing the historic architecture and exhibits.
Light rain jacket
Useful during sudden Florida afternoon showers.
summer specific