Most everyone is familiar with the sign in the big lot next to the library which reads “Future home of the Marco Island Museum.” That sign is no longer applicable thanks to the year-end donation from Jon and Sonja Laidig who donated $1,500,000 to the Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) museum fund.

PHYLLIS BATOR

Bill Perdichizzi introduces Jon and Sonja Laidig, who donated $1,500,000 to the Marco Island Historical Society Museum Fund.

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Their gift entitles them to name the museum, although they may not wish to include their names on the building. Instead, they may consider a name along the lines of “Marco History Museum.” MIHS will obtain the necessary paperwork for preparation and submission to the County.

Bill Perdichizzi, Capital Campaign administrator, asked the couple to come to the podium and introduced them. The audience applauded as they approached. Perdichizzi asked Mr. Laidig to say a few words, which he did.

“The only think I could say is I swear those checks cleared through the bank. It’s a pleasure to be a part of this. We debated a little bit before we did this not knowing if this was the right thing to do, but there’s only once in a lifetime we get a chance like this. And we knew this was a crucial point in the development of the museum and so we went for broke on this. That’s all I could say.”

As the Laidig’s returned to their seats, the audience gave them a standing ovation. Perdichizzi told the audience of well over 100 people about the change of plans for the museum since the huge donation has made a big difference in planning.

“What our plans had been in the past was that we were going to be building the Living History Hall before we were going to build the main museum building. All of that is changed thanks to the Laidig’s,” Perdichizzi said. “We are now in the process of getting a new site development plan and new architectural plans because we are going to build the main museum first,” he concluded.

What a ride it’s been! The dream of the Marco Island Historical Society is finally coming to fruition. But the best is yet to come. The 8,000 square foot museum’s submission to the County will be delayed, but the Society will coordinate their change of construction plans with appropriate county officials as they progress in solidifying their change of direction. MIHS is hoping to break ground this spring. They also feel that the main museum will be open either late 2008 or early 2009 and have the entire complex completed by 2010. Watch the progress unfold over the next few months.

The Society will also be applying for two major grants this year and expect to have two great funding years in 2008 and 2009.

Wouldn’t you like to be part of this endeavor? You can help by calling 239-394-6917 to make a donation and/or become a member of the Marco Island Historical Society.