FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 7, 2003
CONTACT: Kathalyn Gaither, (850) 245-2112

Northeast Florida Landmark Reopens

-- Federal-state-local partnership restores Ribault Club as visitor center --

JACKSONVILLE- Fort George Island’s restored Ribault Club today reopened to the public seventy-five years after operating as a “millionaire’s club.” The Ribault Club, renovated through a $4 million federal, state and local partnership, now serves as a visitor center and gateway to the recreational, natural and cultural treasures of the Timucuan Trail state and national parks.

“This hard-working public-private partnership accomplished restoration of a national landmark faster, better and at less cost,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary David B. Struhs. “Besides enjoying this remarkable clubhouse, visitors can now experience Northeast Florida’s natural and cultural beauty along with centuries of history.”

Added to Florida’s award-winning state park system in 1989, Ribault Club was originally a playground for America’s affluent. Including an 18-hole golf course overlooking Fort George River, the club offered vacationing families a private, secluded getaway during Florida’s formative years as a tourism and retirement destination.

“The National Park Service is a proud partner in the continued historical role being played by the Ribault Club,” said National Park Service Director Fran Mainella. “Today, the Ribault Club serves to provide opportunities for all visitors to experience and find meaning in the stories of all the people and events associated with the Club and Fort George Island.”

The Great Depression and World War II led to the demise of the exclusive club in the 1940s. It fell into disrepair until the property was acquired by the State and added to Fort George Island Cultural State Park.

In the 1990s, the City of Jacksonville, Department of Environmental Protection and National Park Service forged a partnership to restore the clubhouse to its original grandeur and place the facility back on the map. The clubhouse is now designated a “National Register Site” and “Jacksonville Landmark.”

“We’re incredibly proud of the Ribault Club,” said Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton. “It’s another great reason to visit Jacksonville and explore our parks and our beauty and rich history.”

The revived Ribault Club will operate Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Exhibits inside the clubhouse depict Fort George Island’s rich history, stretching back to its exploration in the 16th century by French sea captain Jean Ribault, the club’s namesake. In addition to a bookstore and visitor center for area parks, the club will be available for social events, conventions, meetings and private functions.