Stoneman Douglas cottage receiving TLC

Marjorie Stoneman Douglas in front of the house in the late 1920s. (Photo courtesy Wikipedia).

There recently was a stakeholder meeting concerning the Marjory Stoneman Douglas House. 

The Division of Recreation and Parks (DRP) continues to consider possible options for the long-term management of the property. 

Work at the house has continued and includes:

- Installation of a new air conditioning system
- Installation of a new alarm system
- Mold remediation project completed with the restoration of the plaster wall surrounding the fireplace. (Project was overseen by local architect Richard Heisenbottle.)
- Restoration and re-installation of the kitchen cabinets, counter tops and replica linoleum flooring.
- Lawn service hired and the state property is being mowed weekly.
- Park staff from the Barnacle continue to make regular trips to the house to maintain the state property.

The house was built between 1924-1926, it is located at 3744 Stewart Avenue. Mrs. Douglas lived in the house from 1926 until her death in 1998 at age 108. She left the house to the State of Florida.

DRP has issued a support letter for the installation of a historic marker on the property through the historic marker program managed by the State Division of Historic Resources. Members of the public expressed a strong interest in greater recognition of Marjory Stoneman Douglas and the designation of the house as a National Historic Landmark. DRP is pleased to support this effort to recognize of one of Florida’s most notable citizens.

"It is the responsibility of DRP to regulate public access to the property, promote public safety and provide a quality visitor experience. We want to ensure that we continue to serve as good stewards and good neighbors. We look forward to working with all of you to increase public enjoyment of this important historic resource," says Sine Murray, Planning and Policy Coordinator of the Florida Park Service.