The Matecumbe Historical Trust Corp. is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization dedicated to the education, history, and preservation of the Florida Keys. Our founder, Mr. Irving Eyster, has been our Keys historian for over 60 years - collecting artifacts, memorabilia, and photos. He is an archaeologist, historian, and a professor.

The Matecumbe Historical Trust is committed to the creation of the definitive anthropological and historical museum of the Florida Keys. The museum will preserve the unique history of the Keys, and it will become the pre-eminent repository of artifacts as well as a venue for academic symposia and research about the Keys and related subjects worldwide. It will house Mr. Eyster's vast collection of artifacts, photographs, historical articles, and memorabilia. It will be enhanced by individual items and collections donated or loaned from others who have directly contacted us to express their most sincere interest. It will be a significant educational center for residents and tourists.

Some of the themes to be included in the permanent collection will be: Geologic, Prehistoric, Explorations, Shipwrecks, Wreckers, Settlers, Pirates, Lighthouse, Military Presence, Spanish Connection, Flagler Railway, Fishing, Hurricanes, Post Hurricane, Overseas Highway, Tourism, and Commercial.

This Trust has worked extensively for the past several years photographing, cataloging and laying out the exhibits of the permanent collections as well as the layout of each individual exhibit. With funding we could open in less than a year. This is an immeasurably impactful project with substantial historical significance for the entire Florida Keys.

"Please don't allow these precious historical artifacts, imagery, and most importantly knowledge to disappear from future generations."

For more information or to volunteer, please contact Barbara Edgar at 305-393-0940.

"The past belongs to the future but only the present can preserve it." ~ Irving R. Eyster