Key West in Monroe County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)

Old Custom House

Key West Art & Historical Society

Photographed By Brandon D Cross, May 3, 2023

1. The Old Custom House Marker

Inscription.
Built in 1833 and moved from Front St. to it's current location in 1891. In the 1800's there was an average of one shipwreck per week. Shipwreck salvage led to Key West's initial growth and prosperity. From this mansard roofed building, all wreckers were licensed and salvage goods and ships were governed under Admiralty law. By the late 1830's Key West accounted for 60% to 80% of goods exported from Florida. The lion's share of the prosperity can be attributed to the wrecking business.

—Circa 1833—
Key West Historic Marker
Free Audio Walking Tour
Call: 305•507•0300
Sponsor: The Favelli Family

Erected by The Favelli Family. (Marker Number 42.)

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 1833.

Location. 24° 33.563′ N, 81° 48.333′ W. Marker is in Key West, Florida, in Monroe County. Marker is on Duval Street north of Greene Street, on the left when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 124 Duval Street, Key West FL 33040, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Rodriguez Cigars (within shouting distance of this marker); Sloppy Joe’s Bar (within shouting distance

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of this marker); The Old Anchor Inn (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Sawyer Building (about 300 feet away); Harbor House (about 300 feet away); Old City Hall (about 300 feet away); The Key West Arts Center (about 400 feet away); Mary (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Key West.

Also see . . .
1. Key West Art & Historical Society. (Submitted on May 13, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)
2. History of the Key West Custom House. (Submitted on May 13, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)

Photographed By Brandon D Cross, May 3, 2023

2. The Old Custom House Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on May 18, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 13, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. This page has been viewed 61 times since then and 13 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 13, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.