On Saturday, February 21st, the Estero Island Historic Society presented the third mini-lecture in its popular Murder Mystery Series, drawing over 40 people across two sessions offered at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
The program explored a tragic event that shocked the island community in 2002. The discussion was lively and engaging, with several audience members personally familiar with the Moringiellos offering thoughtful insight and first hand perspective. Their contributions added depth and meaning to an already compelling presentation.
Due to a scheduling conflict, the next Murder Mystery program originally planned for March 21 has been postponed until the fall — potentially returning in time for a special Halloween-season event.
Upcoming EIHS Programs
Public Meeting & Panel Discussion: Religion on the Island
Monday, March 9
Location: St. Raphael’s Episcopal Church – 5601 Williams Drive
EIHS will host a public meeting featuring a panel discussion exploring the role of religion on Estero Island — past, present, and future–This program will highlight the churches, spiritual communities, and faith traditions that have shaped island life over the decades. The public is invited to attend and participate in this thoughtful community conversation. Presently we have representatives from Chapel by the Sea, St. Raphael’s, and the Church of the Ascension. If you know of anyone from St.Peter’s, Beach Baptist, or United Methodist please let Ellie Bunting know as we would like to feature all of the churches on the island (profbunting@gmail.com) or 239-851-8975.
Diving into the Decades: The Boom Years of the 1920s
Saturday, March 21
11:00 a.m.
The Cottage – 161 Bay Road
Instead of the originally scheduled March Murder Mystery, EIHS will present the second installment of its Diving into the Decades series. This month’s focus will be one of the most pivotal decades in the island’s history — the remarkable boom years of the 1920s.
Attendees will learn how ambitious developers, new infrastructure, real estate speculation, and rapid growth forever changed the character of Estero Island.
All programs are open to the public, and guests are encouraged to attend and bring friends interested in local history.
For additional information, please contact the Estero Island Historic Society at esteroislandhistoricsociety@
So great for the community!