In the 1970s, the lodge was acquired by the Richards family, who undertook efforts to restore and maintain its structure while preserving its character. Under their stewardship, the club’s reputation as a living museum of Florida history was renewed.
Visitors once again came — not just for fishing or hunting, but for nostalgia. They sought the quiet charm of wood-paneled rooms, the view of the river, and the stories whispered through the hallways. The club began appearing in travel guides and documentaries as one of the “must-see” historic landmarks of the Everglades.
The Florida Department of State recognized its historic value, and in the 1990s the Rod and Gun Club was officially listed as a significant heritage site. Its dining room became a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, where fried catfish and key lime pie were served under the same rafters that once hosted presidents.
Cultural Significance and Community Role
Beyond its architectural and historic importance, the Everglades Rod and Gun Club has always been deeply intertwined with the cultural identity of Everglades City.
It represents endurance — a place that has weathered storms, both literal and economic. It embodies a slower rhythm of life, where storytelling and tradition matter more than speed or technology. For locals, it has long been a community anchor, hosting gatherings, dinners, and family celebrations.
The lodge also serves as a living classroom in Florida history. School groups and travelers learn about the early settlers, the Collier era, and the challenges of life on the edge of the swamp. The club’s walls tell stories not through plaques or exhibits, but through the very wood and photographs that line them. shutdown123