A Coastal Legacy: New Film Unveils the History of Bonnet House
Tucked away on 35 acres of prime Fort Lauderdale coastline, the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens represents one of the final vestiges of early twentieth-century Florida. A new documentary, "Hidden In Plain Sight," captures the estate's transformation from a private artist's retreat into a protected landmark of historical and environmental significance.
The film traces the property's narrative through the lives of Hugh Taylor Birch and the artists Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Evelyn Fortune Bartlett. By weaving together rare archival materials and interviews, the production illustrates how the couple cultivated a unique sanctuary that blends distinct ecosystems with a curated collection of art and architecture.
Beyond the aesthetic appeal, the documentary highlights the preservation efforts necessary to maintain the site. It specifically examines the foresight of Evelyn Fortune Bartlett, whose decision to gift the estate ensured its long-term survival as a cultural treasure. South Florida PBS will broadcast the documentary on WPBT on June 22, 2026, at 7:30 PM, followed by a showing on WXEL on June 29, 2026, at 11:00 PM.
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