Built in 1876, it’s the oldest building in Martin County and perhaps the Treasure Coast, and the last of 10 lifesaving stations on Florida’s east coast.
Gilbert’s Bar at House of Refuge on Hutchinson Island tourism
Now serving as a museum, the House of Refuge was the second of 10 Houses of Refuge built on Florida’s once-deserted Atlantic coast to aid shipwreck survivors.
- The House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar in Stuart closed June 1 for renovations.
- The history museum will reopen in the first quarter of 2026.
- Martin County is paying for the $1.79 million repair.
- The Historical Society of Martin County manages the House of Refuge as well as the Elliott Museum.
The House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar in Stuart is undergoing a $1.79 million renovation.
Built in 1876, it’s the oldest building in Martin County and perhaps the Treasure Coast, and it’s the last of 10 lifesaving stations on Florida’s east coast where shipwreck survivors recuperated from their ordeal.
It will reopen early next year after closing June 1 for its biggest and most expensive renovation, which will include a new roof, revived main deck and other structural improvements, according to county spokesperson Martha Kneiss.
The building, at 301 S.E. MacArthur Blvd., has undergone much restoration work in the past 149 years and was even moved inland about 30 feet to protect it from encroaching high tides.
It was closed for about a year in 1998, when a $400,000 restoration included new signs, exhibits, accessibility and cultural recognition, according to Catherine Larsen, the keeper of the house. Previous restorations have restored the roof, siding, watchtower, north-side chimney and termite-ridden wood that included Dade County pine.
The house was converted into a museum in the 1950s. A boathouse built in 1935 has been used as a gift shop. Another building is used for lectures, luncheons and other events. Martin County rents the grounds for weddings.
The basement under the porch contains historical exhibits dating from before European settlers to the World War II era. The Coast Guard used the watchtower to check for enemy ships and submarines offshore during WWII.
Martin County is paying for the restoration. The Historical Society of Martin County manages the House of Refuge as well as the Elliott Museum.
Valeria Bartra is TCPalm’s intern. Contact her at valeria.bartra@tcpalm.com.
