This morning I drove to Bokeelia, on Pine Island, to board a ferry to Cabbage Key and Cayo Costa State Park.
In 1929 Alan and Gratia Houghton Rinehart began preparation for their winter estate on the island of Cabbage Key. After purchasing Cabbage Key for $2,500 they later spent over $125,000 on the amenities which exist today at this popular resort.
The main building incorporates elaborate architectural and engineering features including a solar energy system, 6 working fireplaces, 5 porches, a storm shelter, and a rain water system with a 25,000 gallon storage tank built into the reinforced concrete foundation. Constructed high on an Indian shell mound, Cabbage Key, at 35 feet above sea level, is one of the highest points in this area of Florida.
The Tarpon Lodge restaurant has an unusual interior - every inch of the dining room walls and ceiling are covered with dollar bills. You mark your bill with a Sharpie and masking tape it somewhere. About $70,000 in dollar bills are taped to the surface and about $10,0o0 worth of dollar bills fall off (due to deteriorating tape and air from ceiling fans) every year which is donated to charity.
The "old house and cottages" were open to the public in 1944. The present owners have lived on and maintained the unique charm of this island resort for the past 30 years.
