Post #527481 by uncle trav on Sun, May 2, 2010 6:52 AM

Name:The Hut
Type:restaurant
Street:5150 Buckingham Rd.
City:Ft. Myers
State:FL
Zip:33905
country:USA
Phone:239-694-4178
Status:defunct

Description:
The Hut was located out in the sticks north east of Ft. Myers proper. The restaurant has a long history in the area and is a classic story of a merchant marine sailor marrying a Tahitian princess and returning to the states to start a restaurant reminiscent of that trip. Unfortunately the Hut has now closed after many many years in operation. Though I lived in the Ft. Myers for years I never went to the Hut but my sister still lives in the area and may be able to add some more info. I do know that at one time they had a whole cocktail menu and served many in Tiki mugs. Also at one time the decor was very Tiki and even had a Polynesian floor show. Not much more information to go on than that without being in the area but maybe we dig up some more. I'll have some pics up in a few minutes. Thanks.

Here is a little history from a restaurant review.

"HISTORY OF THE HUT Edwin Peace, a German man sailed in the merchant marines. Upon his ship landing in Tahiti he met Princess Ramira Stephagee. He offered a pocket knife for Princess Ramira's hand in marriage. The couple choose to reside in Fort Myers and acquired the property where the Hut sits today. Mr. Peace began experimenting growing various species of rare tropical plants. He was granted permission to import plants from all around the world, and succeeded in growing a tropical wonderland, which was admired and enjoyed by frequent visitors and friend, Thomas Edison. As a result of the close friendship between Edison and Peace, many rare specimens on the Edison Estate today came from the Peace Gardens. Edwin and Lolita raised two children. A son, Oscar and a daughter, Lolita. Lolita became a famous Tahitian dancer and now resides in Miami. Oscar joined the Navy, and since retired to North Carolina and is now deceased. Princess Ramira Stephagee Peace died in 1967, and the children inherited the Peace Tropical Gardens. Upon Lolita and Oscar parting ways, together they sold the property to Marie Louise Books Rector, who with her husband, owned and operated the famous Newagen Inn, in Newagen Maine, and the Royal Palm Hotel in Fort Myers. Marie had a dream for the newly acquired property. . . . In her dream, she visualized the gardens restored to their natural beauty, and a majestic tropical restaurant standing on the adjunct property in the unique and beautiful community of Buckingham. The dream became a reality and remains today for all to enjoy. The Hut Restaurant, a gem amongst the gardens. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two, a casual outing with a group of friends, celebrating a birthday with family and much more. We hope you will visit The Hut Restaurant, Tiki Lounge and Tropical Gardens soon where the entire staff will do their utmost in making your evening out a memorable occasion."

A couple of vintage "milk glass" coffee cups I picked up this weekend.

Artist rendering of the restaurant.

Matchbook fro my collection.

A view of the grounds.

These photos are from Marv of the Legacy Harbour Marina and date from 2008.

[ Edited by: uncle trav 2010-05-02 07:13 ]

[ Edited by: uncle trav 2010-08-05 15:23 ]