Ted Smallwood Store: Echoes of a Bygone Era
Nestled in the pristine wilderness of Chokoloskee, Florida, the Ted Smallwood Store is a testament to the region’s rich history.
This humble building, also known as the Smallwood’s Trading Post or the Ole Indian Trading Post and Museum, has weathered the storms of time, proudly carrying the legacy of an era long past.
Upon stepping onto the quiet island of Chokoloskee in 1897, C.S. “Ted” Smallwood likely had little idea that his name would become an integral part of the region’s history.
Tasked as postmaster in 1906, Smallwood operated the post office from his home, serving as a critical communication link for the island’s residents.
1917 saw Smallwood construct a general store that would soon become a local landmark. The store doubled as the post office, further cementing its place in the heart of the Chokoloskee community.
Today, the store stands within the boundaries of the Everglades National Park, a preserved piece of history that continues to narrate the tales of yesteryears.
Shadows and Whispers: The Tale of “Bloody” Ed Watson
The Smallwood Store’s walls reverberate with tales of a time gone by, none more chilling than that of “Bloody” Ed Watson.
An outlaw on the run from Oklahoma, Watson found refuge in the solitude of the Everglades.
His connection to the Smallwood Store paints a haunting picture of a man shrouded in mystery and fear.
Watson was known to hire laborers for his sugarcane plantation, promising them a chance to catch a boat to Fort Myers or Key West from the Smallwood Store.
However, these unsuspecting souls never reached their destination. Instead, their journeys ended abruptly and tragically, their bodies hidden away in the unforgiving swamp.
This macabre ritual continued for 15 years until 1910 when a woman named Hannah Smith became the final victim of Watson’s cruel intentions.
The discovery of her body led to a posse of men confronting Watson at the Smallwood Store.
The confrontation ended with Watson meeting the same fate as his victims, ending a terrifying chapter in the store’s history.
Standing Against the Tides: Preservation Challenges and Threats
As time passes, the Smallwood Store faces challenges beyond the natural elements.
With their eyes set on the prime real estate that the store occupies, property developers pose a significant threat.
The store’s status as a museum and its place on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places since 1974 underline its importance, yet these distinctions may not be enough to protect it from the relentless march of progress.
The Smallwood Store, however, is not just a building. It symbolizes Chokoloskee’s past and is a beacon guiding us to preserve our history for future generations.
A New Dawn: Recent Developments and the Road Dispute Resolution
The resilience of the Smallwood Store was tested yet again in recent years. A contentious dispute over Mamie Street, the lone road leading to the store, threatened its existence.
This disagreement lasted almost four years and brought uncertainty and turmoil to the tranquil island.
The dispute finally found resolution through a settlement agreement, a victory celebrated by the community.
The store owner, Lynn McMillin, hailed the agreement as a complete victory, expressing relief and gratitude for the resolution.
The settlement also marked a significant moment for the community, ensuring the road to their homes and businesses would remain accessible.
As part of the agreement, the development company, previously claiming Mamie Street as a private driveway, conceded that the road was indeed public.
The company had caused an uproar in 2011 when it erected a fence across the street, initiating a legal fight that lasted nearly four years.
One of Naples’ top law firms, Grant Fridkin Pearson, took up the battle and offered their services at a discounted rate to support the store and its historical significance.
The victory was not without its costs. The museum had to shut down for six months when its road access was initially cut.
Even after a temporary injunction reopened the road, the legal fight continued to drain the store’s resources. McMillin revealed that every penny the store earned during this period covered legal fees.
Despite these challenges, the Smallwood Store emerged stronger and more resilient.
The community’s support was instrumental in its survival, with residents turning out in force at county commission meetings to voice their opposition to plans that would disrupt the peace and tranquility of their homes.
A Living Legacy: The Enduring Spirit of the Smallwood Store
As the sun sets on Chokoloskee Island, Florida, casting long shadows across the still waters of the Everglades, the Ted Smallwood Store is a proud testament to the island’s vibrant past.
It’s not just a store but a living museum, a keeper of memories, and a symbol of the enduring spirit of the people who call this place home.
From the store’s inception by C.S. “Ted” Smallwood in 1917 to the haunting tales of “Bloody” Ed Watson and the recent triumph over property disputes, the Smallwood Store has weathered many storms.
It continues to welcome visitors, sharing a slice of history that is as fascinating as poignant.
As we reflect on the story of the Smallwood Store, we’re reminded of the importance of preserving our past, even as we navigate the uncertainties of the present and look forward to the promise of the future.
The Smallwood Store is more than a relic of the past; it is a beacon of resilience, a testament to the power of community, and a living legacy of Chokoloskee Island’s unique history.
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