Pompano Beach is famous for its beaches, but it also holds a fascinating history. While many come for the sand and sea, those who love history will find plenty to explore. From historic landmarks to preserved sites, the city offers a look into its past. Here are some lesser-known historical spots you should visit.
Sample-McDougald House
One of Pompano Beach’s crown jewels, the Sample-McDougald House, offers visitors a look back at early 20th-century life in South Florida. Built in 1916, this beautifully restored house was home to one of the area’s pioneer families. Today, it stands as a museum, showcasing period-appropriate furnishings, architecture, and local history through guided tours and special events.
This historic site not only reflects early Florida settler life but also provides insights into Pompano Beach’s agricultural roots, offering a stark contrast to the city’s modern, beach-centric lifestyle. The Sample-McDougald House is a must-see for anyone interested in local heritage and historical architecture.
The Kester Cottages
Located at the Pompano Beach Historical Society, The Kester Cottages are charming examples of early Florida architecture from the 1930s. Moved to their current location in Founders Park, these two cottages give visitors a unique glimpse into life during the city’s early years. Once rental homes, the cottages were part of a vision by developer George Kester to promote the growth of Pompano Beach during the early 20th century. The restored interiors provide a look into the daily lives of the area’s early residents.
These structures offer more than a nostalgic look back—they represent the resilience and growth of Pompano Beach, showcasing its evolution from a quiet farming community to the bustling city it is today.
Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse
Though technically located just outside Pompano Beach, the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse is a historical gem that should not be missed. First lit in 1907, the lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships safely along Florida’s coast. The lighthouse’s fascinating history and stunning views of the Atlantic make it a popular stop for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Today, the lighthouse is open for tours that allow visitors to climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline. Managed by the Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society, it stands as a testament to the maritime history that has shaped much of South Florida’s development.
Pompano Beach Historical Cemetery
A lesser-known but significant historical site, the Pompano Beach Historical Cemetery offers a reflective journey through the lives of the city’s earliest settlers. Established in 1907, this cemetery is the final resting place for many of the area’s founding families and veterans. Walking through the cemetery connects visitors to Pompano Beach’s past, offering insights into the people who built the community.
This site also holds historical tours and events, where local historians recount stories of the early settlers and the trials they faced in shaping the area. It’s a peaceful yet deeply educational stop for those looking to explore the human side of Pompano Beach’s history.
Blanche Ely House Museum
The Blanche Ely House Museum celebrates the life and contributions of Blanche Ely, a local educator and civil rights leader. Ely was a pioneering figure in the education of African American students in Pompano Beach during segregation. The museum, once her home, now stands as a monument to her tireless efforts to improve educational opportunities for black students.
The house itself has been beautifully restored and features exhibits on Ely’s life, as well as the broader history of African American education in South Florida. The museum offers guided tours and special programs that educate visitors on Ely’s significant impact on the community.
Pompano Beach is more than just a vacation destination—it’s a city steeped in history, with stories that shape its present-day character. From the preserved homes of early settlers to landmarks of maritime importance, these hidden historical gems offer visitors a deeper understanding of the area’s rich past. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious to learn more about this unique city, these sites provide a meaningful and educational way to explore Pompano Beach.
