The Historic Stranahan House Museum – the oldest house in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. and the epicenter of Broward County’s long history – celebrated the groundbreaking of the museum’s campus-wide transformation into the “Center of Community,” a return to its original role in 1901 as Fort Lauderdale’s first gathering place.
In 2018, the Stranahan House embarked on a transformational capital improvement campaign to further protect the historic site and create new opportunities for locals and visitors alike. The capital campaign aims to enhance Stranahan House’s facilities and offerings, ensuring its continued significance as a vital cultural institution. Accomplishments to date include the new seawall, the New River Patio and updated historic porches donated by Old Florida Lumber. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
The expansion, led by architect Leo Hansen, Miller Construction, EDSA and Brizaga, marks the official start of construction for the improvements.
“We’re proud to break ground on our transformational Capital Campaign project, transforming the Historic Stranahan House Museum into the ‘Center of Community,’ a return to its original role in 1901 as Fort Lauderdale’s first gathering place,” said Stranahan House Executive Director Jennifer Belt. “These enhancements will allow residents and visitors of all ages to learn about Fort Lauderdale’s fascinating history, furthering the community’s social, cultural and historical viability. This would not be possible without the vision and generosity of our dedicated donors, partners and community stakeholders who are committed to creating a space that will serve the Fort Lauderdale community and inspire generations to come.”
The renovation of the administration building will include The Egret Classroom, a state-of-the-art education center funded by a private family foundation, and the Kitchenworks Hospitality Center. New ADA-compliant facilities, including restrooms, as well as an on-site archival and storage facility, will enhance the museum’s ability to serve the community and preserve its collections for future generations. The Mosser Family Education Planning Center, funded by John and Pamela Wilkes, will ensure the creation of new, dynamic programming.
The east side of the property will be home to a new welcome center featuring a ticketing window and gift shop, funded by the City of Fort Lauderdale, and an event pavilion, funded by Broward, Palm Beaches and St. Lucie Realtors. The Rogers Family Foundation donated the Virginia and Dwight Rogers Courtyard, an additional location for community gatherings and celebrations.
“I’m so excited about the groundbreaking of Stranahan House’s museum and welcome center. It’s extremely important that we maintain Fort Lauderdale’s rich history even as the city grows and matures,” said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis. “The museum and welcome center will take the property to the next level as one of the city’s most important historical elements. It also has the added bonus of boosting the Las Olas portion of our downtown and the whole Riverwalk area.”
