MUSEUMS
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the social conventions of
that time.
“You wouldn’t think
that’s a big deal, but it
was huge because it gave
women freedom,” Geary
explains. “They could get
on their bicycle and take
off. They didn’t have to
walk or put the horse
and buggy together.”
Visit the museum
and you will see that
Elliott got it right when
he planned for it many
years ago. His vision
for a cultural center in
Martin County has given
residents and tourists a
place to gather, exchange
historical stories and
enjoy a cornucopia of
experiences.
“We have something for everybody,” Geary says. “It’s not
all about baseball; it’s not just about art; it’s not just about
cars. If a guy comes in who loves cars, his wife is going to
find something else that’s interesting like the general store,
the button collection, or the artwork. It’s not just one thing
that you’re going to look at. It’s an encyclopedia museum —
we have a little bit of everything.”
Sterling Elliott held more than 125
patents, receiving his first at age 22. One
of his most important inventions was the
unequal turning of the front wheels or a
steering knuckle, which became a critical
element in the success of the automobile.
DOREEN POREBA
The general store is part of the Americana collection that has long been a favorite among visitors to the South Hutchinson Island museum.
RICK CRARY
The 1931 Ford Model AA Fire Truck is one of nearly 100 vintage vehicles
that are on display in the car gallery.