In Fort Myers, the Burroughs Home stands out as a symbol of historic grandeur in stark contrast to the new buildings that dominate the city. Enjoy an entertaining history lesson at this beautiful house located downtown on the Caloosahatchee River.
John Murphy was a cattleman from Montana. He traveled to Fort Meyers on business in 1899 and promptly decided to make a home there. The 2.5-story Georgian Colonial Revival house looks almost the same today as it did when it was originally built.
The covered veranda, which wraps around three sides of the house, is the focal point of the property. Sip a cool beverage as you relax in one of the many rocking chairs on the veranda.
In 1918, Nelson and Adeline Burroughs purchased the home. This storied family was known for their fabulous parties and glamorous daughters, Jettie and Mona. The Burroughs’ world travels provided them with exotic furniture and trinkets that you can find throughout the house.
Take a tour from expert historians costumed as Jettie and Mona. Explore the opulent reception rooms on the first floor and the bedrooms upstairs.
Wander among the palm trees and ancient oaks that populate the lush grounds. Take a rest in the gazebo or walk down to the riverfront. Search for the secret garden, which rewards its finders with a charming reflecting pool.
The grounds contain a free-standing fountain, a grotto (the first one built in Fort Myers) fed by an artesian well, a “secret” garden with reflecting pool, gazebo, palm alley and tennis courts. The garden features many varieties of palm trees, elephant ears, century-old oaks, ficus, bougainvillea, bird of paradise and pothos. The site also contains a caretaker’s/carriage house and utility shed that were built to echo the home’s architecture.
A small gift shop inside sells books, prints and other memorabilia. Most feature the eye-catching façade of the house.
Burroughs House also hosts private functions and conferences, so it is sometimes closed to the public. Check ahead of time to make sure they are giving tours on the day of your visit.
