ESTERO, FL – The Estero Historical Society is pleased to announce a generous $10,000 contribution in support of the Society’s Legacy Monument campaign from noted businessman and philanthropist Jim Oberweis, whose foundation has supported numerous charitable organizations throughout Southwest Florida.
The Legacy Monument will become a permanent tribute to the individuals, families, businesses and organizations whose generosity is helping preserve Estero’s rich history for future generations. Located within the Estero Historical Society Complex, the monument will recognize those who have invested in protecting one of the community’s most treasured historic sites.
“We are incredibly grateful for Jim’s generosity and his belief in preserving Estero’s heritage,” said Gail Langner, President of the Estero Historical Society. “His gift not only moves this project forward but also sends a powerful message about the importance of protecting our community’s history for generations to come.”
“Neighbors coming together to honor and preserve our heritage create the strong communities that make Southwest Florida such a special place to live,” said the Hon. Jim Oberweis. “I am pleased my donation today helps make preserving that heritage a reality. As Shakespeare wrote in The Tempest, ‘What is past, is prologue.’ We build a stronger future by understanding and honoring those who laid the noble foundation of our past.”
The donation will help fund the ongoing restoration of the historic Alvarez/Smith House, one of Estero’s oldest remaining homes. Later this summer, the house will be relocated to the Estero Historical Society Complex, where it will be restored and opened to the public as an educational resource celebrating the people and stories that shaped Estero.
The Legacy Monument campaign offers community members the opportunity to leave a lasting mark on Estero’s history. Donors at a variety of giving levels will receive permanent recognition on the monument, ensuring their commitment to historic preservation will be remembered for generations.
“The Alvarez/Smith House represents far more than a historic building,” Langner said. “It represents the families, pioneers and stories that built our community. Every donation brings us one step closer to preserving those stories and sharing them with future generations.”
The Estero Historical Society invites individuals, families and businesses to join Jim Oberweis in helping preserve Estero’s history. Gifts to the Legacy Monument Campaign provide permanent recognition while supporting the restoration of the historic Alvarez/Smith House and ensuring that Estero’s unique story is preserved for generations to come.
For more information about the Legacy Monument Campaign or to make a contribution, please contact the Estero Historical Society at EsteroHistoricalSociety@gmail.com or visit EsteroHistoricalSociety.com
About the Estero Historical Society
The Estero Historical Society is dedicated to preserving, protecting and sharing the unique history of Estero through education, restoration and community engagement. The Society operates the Estero Historical Society Complex, which includes the historic Cottage, Schoolhouse Museum and, soon, the restored Alvarez/Smith House.