The oldest house in Naples — Palm Cottage

Palm Cottage, a museum embodying the history of Naples, Florida, stands as a testament to the past. Constructed in 1895, the cottage has been recently restored to its original state and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Story of Palm Cottage

In the late 19th century, Walter Haldeman, a prominent publisher of the Louisville Courier Journal and a significant figure of his time, built Palm Cottage. Haldeman, closely associated with Henry Watterson, an esteemed editor and political journalist later awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his World War I coverage, aspired to create a cozy retreat for winter gatherings of his friend in Naples. Watterson expressed concerns about accommodations, but Haldeman promised and fulfilled his word, completing the construction in 1895.

Following Haldeman's death in 1902, the house passed to the Palmers from Louisville, who renamed it Palm Cottage and made significant improvements, including modernizing rooms and installing contemporary conveniences. The house changed hands multiple times, with each owner contributing their unique mark to its history.

The death of Mrs. Brown marked a turning point in the complex's history, after which the Collier County Historical Society acquired the house and invested significantly in its restoration. Today, Palm Cottage, now a museum, serves as a center showcasing the region's rich historical heritage, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the life and culture of Naples' past generations.

Features of Palm Cottage

Palm Cottage, spanning 3,500 square feet, now functions as a museum, preserving much of its original structure. The renovation of the house was generously funded by local residents to maintain its early 20th-century appearance.

• The foyer extends from the front to the back, with a grand staircase at the center. The finishing is done in black cypress wood, filling the space with light and providing spaciousness with 12-foot ceilings on the first floor.
• The most intriguing part of the house is the walls, constructed from tabby mortar — a mixture of sand, shells, and water, formed into large, sturdy blocks.
• Thanks to its one-foot-thick walls, Palm Cottage has easily withstood 120 years of hurricanes and tropical storms.
• The house originally had seven bedrooms. These seven rooms were combined into four bedrooms when the house became a private residence. Sleeping here is comfortable, with the sound of palm leaves rustling outside the window. The main bedroom is situated on the cooler side of the house, which remains shaded throughout the day.
• The owners renovated the upstairs corridor to function as a gallery. The bright beadboard walls provide the perfect backdrop for a collection of historical photographs that adorn the walls, with early images of Naples being of particular interest.
• Lastly, the children's room deserves attention. A notable feature is a doll on the bedside table, representing a Seminole Indian. The Seminoles, subjected to forced relocation in the 19th century, eventually stood their ground to live in Florida. They are the only Native American tribe that never signed a peace treaty with the United States.

Excursions at Palm Cottage Museum

• Naples Historical Society's Historic Palm Cottage Tour
  In 2006, the owners restored the flourishing garden surrounding the house. Visitors can now explore these gardens with a guide. There are five different gardens: Palm Collector’s Garden, Garden of the Senses, Pioneer Garden, Edible Garden, and Shade Garden. After the gardens, you'll visit the archival center to watch a 24-minute video about Naples' past.
• Walking Tours of the Naples Historic District
  Take a walking tour of the Naples Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You'll learn about the district as it was in the late 19th century. Stroll through the historic street and find out where the old cinema, store, and gas station were located.
• Garden Side Chickee Chats
  This annual winter lecture series features experts discussing the city's history. Past topics have included the history of swamp buggies, art in Naples, waterfronts of the city, and growing St. Augustine grass for lawns.

The Historical Society has done a remarkable job maintaining Palm Cottage for all of us, offering a window into the city’s history through the prism of one house. Visiting the museum with a guide immerses you in the atmosphere of that era.