Bonita Springs: A former quaint little fishing town, turned bustling city.  Through the years we've watched it change and mold itself into a destination of choice for families, businesses and retirees.

One of the original landmarks that people use to come to Bonita Springs for was the spring.  Sounds glamorous, but it's a sulfer spring and smells like eggs.  It was rumored to have medicinal purposes.  It's actually how Bonita Springs got it's name, for the springs.  It's original name was Survey.  Why?  The survey crew that originally graphed the state slept at a camp by the river.  Uh, and this was before anyone invented "Off" mosquito repellant.  The state bird of Florida is, in fact, the mosquito.

Through the years residents have watched as a few landmarks and attactions were consumed by development.  For example:  The Dome, a roadsite souvenir shop, turned dive bar, turned 7-11 convenience store. 

 Courtesy Naples Daily News

Chucks Poorhouse, a classic, old town, beachfront restaurant is now a parking lot.  The tourism demanded it, the county put it in.

We still have one little landmark holding on.  When you're leaving Bonita Beach and return east toward US 41, it's on your right.  In the past, do-gooders have tried to force the owners to change the name, control it's presence and stifle it's souvenir sales.  No deal!  The tackle store lives on!  According to the bumper stickers they sell, "You Can't Beat Their Bait."

Freedom of speach is alive and well in Bonita Springs, Florida.

To learn more about the new owner of this Fine Establishment Click Here.

If you have an interesting landmark in your town you are welcome to post it in my comments section.