Street Address
301 SE MacArthur Boulevard
Hutchinson Island
Stuart, FL 34996
Phone: 772-225-1875
info@elliottmuseumfl.org
House of Refuge Hours
Monday - Saturday
10:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday
1:00pm - 4:00pm
Admissions
Adults $5
Ages 6-13 $2
An amazing collection of history and automobiles. Simply fantastic!
Guy H., Port St. Lucie, FL
A nice experience!
Malcom & Jane F.,
Market Harborough, UK
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ABOUT THE HOUSE OF REFUGE
AT GILLBERT'S BAR
As the oldest structure on the Treasure Coast (circa 1876), The House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar has weathered many storms and provided needed shelter for shipwreck survivors in days gone by. Its colorful history continues to be written, even today!
Following hurricane damage sustained in 2004 to the nearby shoreline, an Indian midden was discovered on the site, containing charred fish bones, fiber tempered pottery and shells used by the Ais Indians, who inhabited the area from 2000 B.C. to the 18th century. This exciting discovery is just one way that history comes to life in the present day.
Newly reopened after a two-year hiatus, the House of Refuge continues to withstand the test of time, while offering a fascinating look at a bygone lifestyle along the sea. For your convenience we provide directions to the House of Refuge. To learn about scheduling a group tour, email us today!
The Georges Valentine
On October 16, 1904, during a violent storm, the brigantine Georges Valentine foundered and broke apart on the rocky reefs just offshore from Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge. Captain William Rea, Keeper of the House of Refuge, succeeded in rescuing seven of the crew of twelve. They recuperated at the House of Refuge along with the crew of the Cosme Calzado that wrecked the next day just three miles north. Fifteen of the Cosme Calzado crew of sixteen survived.
The Georges Valentine was declared a State Underwater Archaeological Preserve in 2005, and in 2006 it was named to the National Register of Historic Places. On a clear calm day, the wreckage can be observed as a dark patch in the water about 300 feet off the southeastern corner of the property.
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