Bonnet House Museum & Gardens | Fort Lauderdale

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a historic and cultural gem located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offering a blend of history, art, architecture, and natural beauty. Here’s a detailed overview of the estate, its history, architecture, gardens, and visitor experience:

History

The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens has deep roots in South Florida history, with its origins stretching back to 1895:

Initial Purchase by Hugh Taylor Birch (1895): Hugh Taylor Birch, a prominent Chicago lawyer and naturalist, acquired the land in 1895. The land was part of a barrier island ecosystem, rich in natural beauty. Birch used the property as a winter retreat and a place to study and preserve the native landscape.

Gift to Daughter (1919): In 1919, Birch gifted the property to his daughter, Helen, and her new husband, Frederic Clay Bartlett, an artist. The estate became their winter retreat. It was Helen who decided to build a residence on the property to complement the natural beauty of the land.

Construction of the Bonnet House (1920): Frederic Bartlett and Helen worked together to design and build the house in 1920. The house was constructed as a combination of a private home and a creative space, with Frederic Bartlett incorporating his artistic influence into the design. The name "Bonnet House" comes from a type of flower, the bonnet lily, which Helen particularly admired.

Tragedy and Transformation (1925–1931): In 1925, Helen tragically passed away, and Frederic Bartlett found himself visiting the property less frequently. However, in 1931, he remarried Evelyn Fortune Lilly, and the couple began making further artistic additions to the house, enriching its cultural legacy.

Evelyn Bartlett’s Legacy (1931–1995): Evelyn, Frederic’s second wife, continued to spend winters at Bonnet House until her passing in 1995. Evelyn ensured the preservation of the property by donating it to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation in 1983, allowing future generations to experience the estate.

Opening to the Public (1990s–Present): Today, Bonnet House is a museum and a living piece of history, dedicated to preserving the estate's legacy and educating visitors about the unique fusion of art, history, and ecology that defines it.

Architecture and Grounds

The Bonnet House reflects a Caribbean-style plantation architecture, blending seamlessly with the natural environment:

Architecture and Design: The Bonnet House estate features a main house, an art studio, a music studio, and a guest house, all constructed with indigenous materials. Frederic Bartlett’s artistic background is evident in the home’s design, with coral rock, Dade County pine, and cypress wood used in construction. The layout of the house allows for airflow and light to naturally flow throughout, in harmony with the surrounding nature.

The Estate Grounds: The estate spans 35 acres and features five distinct ecosystems, showcasing the rich diversity of South Florida’s native environment:

Primary Dunes: Coastal sand dunes that form the first line of defense against storms.

Secondary Dunes: Slightly inland dunes supporting different plant species.

Mangrove Wetlands: An ecosystem that supports diverse wildlife, including fish, birds, and reptiles.

Freshwater Slough: A wetland area where fresh water flows and contributes to the local ecosystem.

Maritime Forest: A rich and lush forest that provides shelter and habitat for various species.

Gardens and Orchids: The Bonnet House grounds also include meticulously curated gardens, including an orchid display house and a tropical garden. These gardens attract wildlife, including swans and other birds, providing an immersive experience in nature.

Wildlife: One of the unique features of the estate is its wildlife. Visitors can often see monkeys, swans, tropical birds, and other animals that call Bonnet House home. The estate’s environmental design provides a sanctuary for these species.

Exhibits and Art Collection

Bonnet House is home to a significant art collection, primarily contributed by Frederic Bartlett. The artwork spans a variety of styles and mediums, reflecting the artist's influence and the broader artistic movements of the time.

Frederic Bartlett’s Art: Frederic Bartlett’s paintings, sketches, and designs are showcased throughout the house. His work represents his love for nature, and many pieces focus on the flora and fauna of South Florida.

Decorative Art and Furniture: The house is filled with period furniture, art, and decorative items, much of which was curated by Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett. The decorative style is eclectic, blending Caribbean, colonial, and Floridian influences, and it offers insight into the personal tastes of the Bartlett family.

Visiting Information

Bonnet House offers visitors a variety of experiences, from self-guided tours to special events.

Self-Guided Tours:

Available Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, and Saturday & Sunday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Admission Fees: $25 for adults, $8 for children aged 6–17, and free for children aged 5 and under.

Visitors can explore the house and gardens at their own pace, utilizing provided materials or mobile apps for more information about the property’s history and significance.

Guided Tours:

Offered on Select Days: The Bonnet House provides scheduled guided tours with in-depth explanations of the house's history, architecture, and art collection. These tours require advance registration.

Fees for guided tours vary, so check the website for specific details.

Accessibility:

Bonnet House is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the grounds and exhibits. Self-guided tours are available in multiple languages to accommodate non-English speakers.

Special Events and Educational Programs:

The museum hosts various events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, educational programs, garden tours, and seasonal celebrations. It is also a popular venue for weddings and private events.

Visitor Amenities:

The Bonnet House has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, artwork, and other unique items related to the estate’s history and art collection.