Frequently Asked Questions

We understand this announcement may raise questions.

Below are answers to the questions we are hearing most often. As the project progresses, this page will be updated with additional information.

Why is the Historic McSwain Home moving?

The Bonita Springs Historical Society has approved the relocation of the Historic McSwain Home to ensure its long-term preservation and continued role as a museum and educational resource.

After careful evaluation and consultation with preservation professionals, the Board determined that relocating the home provides the best opportunity to protect the historic structure while creating an environment that better supports education, accessibility, interpretation, and the visitor experience.

Why can't the home remain where it is?

The Historic McSwain Home has been part of the Bonita Springs community for more than a century. As the surrounding area has evolved, the Society determined that relocating the home offers the best opportunity to protect the structure while supporting its mission as a pioneer museum and educational resource.

Where is the new location?

The Historic McSwain Home Museum & Gardens will relocate to property owned by McSwain descendants in Bonita Springs.

This meaningful connection allows the museum to remain connected to the McSwain family while providing an environment that supports its long-term preservation and educational mission.

Is the home being demolished?

No.

The Historic McSwain Home is not being demolished. It will be carefully relocated by experienced professionals who specialize in moving historic structures so it can continue serving the community as a museum.

Can a historic home really be moved safely?

Yes.

Historic buildings have been successfully relocated throughout Florida and across the country for decades. The relocation will be completed using established preservation methods designed to protect the home's historic integrity.

Will the historic character of the home change?

No.

Protecting the historic character and architectural integrity of the Historic McSwain Home remains the Society's highest priority. Every stage of the relocation will be guided by preservation professionals and reviewed through the City's historic preservation process.

What will happen to the gardens?

The vision for the Historic McSwain Home Museum & Gardens includes thoughtfully designed gardens that complement the historic home while enhancing educational opportunities, accessibility, and the visitor experience.

Additional details will be shared as planning progresses.

Will the Historical Society remain open during the moving process?

The Society is committed to keeping the community engaged throughout the relocation process whenever possible.

Updates regarding tours, programs, and special events will be shared through our website, email newsletter, and official social media channels.

How is this project being funded?

The sale of the land will contribute to the preservation of the Historic McSwain Home. That includes moving the property and re-establishing it in it's new location. The Bonita Springs Historical Society continues to pursue private support through memberships, sponsorships, grants, donations, and fundraising efforts to help preserve the Historic McSwain Home Museum & Gardens for future generations.

How can I support the project?

There are many ways to help preserve Bonita Springs history. You can become a member, make a tax-deductible donation, volunteer your time, attend museum programs and events, or share official project updates with family and friends.

Every contribution helps ensure the Historic McSwain Home Museum & Gardens remains a lasting part of our community.

Where can I receive project updates?

The Bonita Springs Historical Society will continue providing official updates through this website, our email newsletter, and our official social media channels. www.bonitaspringshistory.org

We encourage you to join our mailing list to receive the latest information as the project progresses.

What will happen to the landscaping and hardscape?

The gardens and hardscape are an important part of the Historic McSwain Home Museum & Gardens. Working with our corporate partners and vendors, many existing elements will be carefully repurposed and incorporated into the new site plan and landscape wherever possible.

Who owns the McSwain Home?

The Historic McSwain Home Museum & Gardens is owned and operated by the Bonita Springs Historical Society, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. It is not owned by the City of Bonita Springs and is not funded by the City of Bonita Springs.

The Bonita Springs Historical Society is responsible for the preservation, stewardship and future of the historic property.

Where is the McSwain Home moving to? UPDATE 8/18/2026

The planned new location of the Historic McSwain Home Museum & Gardens is:

26961 Pine Avenue
Bonita Springs, Florida 34135

The property is owned by descendants of the original McSwain pioneer family.

The home will remain in Bonita Springs and within the Downtown corridor. The new location provides an opportunity to preserve and restore the 1915 home while creating a setting with improved accessibility, parking, gardens and space for educational and community programming.

We are especially honored that the next chapter of the Historic McSwain Home will take place on property connected once again to the McSwain family.

Have another question?

If your question isn't answered here, please contact the Bonita Springs Historical Society. We welcome your questions and will continue updating this page as new information becomes available. Contact us at info@bonitaspringshistoricalsociety.org