Event to begin at 1 p.m. at Phillippi Estate Park
At 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 2, Sarasota County leaders will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Phillippi Estate Park to celebrate the restoration of the historic Keith Farmhouse, county staff has announced.
The park stands at 5500 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota.
The Keith Farmhouse, built in 1916, “is one of Sarasota County’s most significant historic structures, reflecting the county’s early development and cultural heritage,” a news release explains. “Over the years, the farmhouse has served multiple purposes, from housing estate staff to becoming a residence for artists,” the release notes.
“Thanks to state grants and community support, the farmhouse has been fully restored and is now ready for the next phase — transformation into an interpretive center that will highlight the area’s history, archaeology and natural resources,” the release says.
“Restoration efforts were completed in stages,” involving structural repairs; use of historic materials; installation of a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system; electrical and plumbing upgrades; and the addition of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible features, the release explains.
“The project was supported by grants from Florida’s Division of Historical Resources and the funds raised by the Phillippi Farmhouse Market, “which has contributed $428,000 towards the restoration of the Keith Farmhouse, the release notes.
Phillippi Estate Park, a 60-acre area situated on Phillippi Creek, “is a place for community events, historical preservation and environmental conservation,” the release continues.
To learn more about this project, visit SarasotaCountyParks.com or call 311 or 941-861-5000.