Cortez Village Historical Society

About Cortez Village Historical Society

The Cortez Cultural Center, operated by the Cortez Village Historical Society, preserves the history of Cortez, one of Florida's last active fishing villages on the Gulf Coast north of Sarasota Bay. Visitors explore exhibits tracing the village's founding in the 1880s by families including the Guthries, Taylors, and Fulfords, whose descendants remain in the community. The center showcases the area's fishing heritage dating to Native Americans and Spanish explorers, along with musical traditions and current conservation efforts. Exhibits feature historical photographs and artifacts documenting the commercial fishing industry and the fishing way of life. The village itself contains ninety-seven buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A visit suits anyone interested in old Florida history, maritime heritage, and the stories of founding families. The center is located in Cortez, Florida.