The Anna Maria Island Historical Society and Museum suffered significant damage to several invaluable artifacts due to floodwaters from Hurricanes Helene and Milton last year.

The museum’s board is now evaluating each artifact while also focusing on repairing the building itself.

“This place is a mess, but it’s where we’re keeping the treasures we’ve managed to salvage,” said Carolyn Orshak, president of the museum.

The museum in Anna Maria holds thousands of artifacts from as early as the 1800s, with some having been affected by the hurricanes.

“Many of these items are simply irreplaceable,” Orshak remarked.

Of the collection, about a dozen artifacts were lost beyond repair, though efforts continue to save others.

“We’re not ready to part with anything. You can see water damage on this piece, but I believe we can restore it,” she added.

There’s optimism that these historical treasures can be saved, with the help of a professional restoration expert now on board.

“We’ve hired an expert to assist us in restoring this museum,” she explained.

The building repairs involve sacrificing some of its history, including the removal of the original 1920s flooring due to severe damage.

“It was a disaster. The floors were slippery, everything was in chaos. It looked like a bomb had gone off,” Orshak described.

The nonprofit depends on community donations to fund these repairs, highlighting the community’s love for the museum.

“This museum is cherished by our community. They’ve embraced us and provided support,” she said.

With this community backing, the Historical Society aims to preserve the island’s history. They plan to reopen the museum in early March, coinciding with the Heritage Festival.

To contribute to the repair fund, donations can be made via their website at: https://www.amihs.org/visit-us

Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Google, & X

(Image credit: Anna Maria Island Historical Society)