FORT MYERS, Fla. — Nestled east of downtown Fort Myers, along the riverfront and surrounded by highrises and busy roads, stands the historic Burroughs Home.
“The Burroughs home was given to Fort Myers by the Burroughs family, intended as a public park or museum,” says Marc Collins, executive director of the Uncommon Friends Foundation, which oversees the home.
Built in the late 1800s, the Georgian-style mansion was significantly damaged by Hurricane Ian, with over seven feet of floodwater inside.
Today, it operates as a museum, offering guided tours, and as a venue for events like weddings, which helps cover upkeep and repair costs.
Despite its beautiful view, the Burroughs Home needs extensive repairs, including a new roof, porch restoration, and a commercial kitchen upgrade.
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A Notable Heritage
The Uncommon Friends concept, pioneered by the late Fort Myers businessman Jim Newton, celebrates the city’s notable past residents, including Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, and aviator Charles Lindbergh, who all visited the Burroughs family at the home.
Newton, a mentor to Lee County business owner and philanthropist Sandy Stillwell Youngquist, inspired her with his example of forward-thinking mentorship.
Youngquist reflects, “I never could figure out why they were interested in me, but then I realized this is what Thomas Edison did with Newton. He was paying it forward.”
The Uncommon Friends Foundation also promotes local history through the Newton Collection and Museum and provides educational programs on business ethics for schools.
Youngquist highlights the value of diversity and challenging thoughts for enriching friendships.
Restoring the Community
In collaboration with the city, the foundation is raising funds to restore the Burroughs Home to its former glory and make it a downtown community centerpiece.
Collins dreams of the home bustling with daily activities, not just events, but as a hub for community gatherings like book readings and storytelling.
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