Historical village celebrating mule, its role on Sanibel
The Sanibel Historical Village and Museum is celebrating Mule Day throughout November.
“The mule was very important to Sanibel pioneers, primarily for farming and transportation, so we decided we needed more than one day to show our appreciation,” Executive Director Emilie Alfino said.
The village has a new, life-sized mule exhibit outdoors, perfect for photo opportunities. In addition, it has a special “Mule Treasure Hunt” for children, and mule facts and figures in each building.
Some mule merchandise is also available in the gift shop in Shore Haven.
Former President Ronald Reagan officially proclaimed Oct. 26 as Mule Day in 1985. It was the 200th anniversary of a donkey named Spanish Jack’s arrival to the United States, a gift from Spanish King Charles III to George Washington, who was interested in breeding American mules from Spanish stock. Washington bred the first mules of their kind from Spanish Jack.
A cross between a female horse and a male donkey, mules have more endurance than horses and are more sure-footed. They are highly resistant to heat, sun and rain, and their skin is harder and less sensitive than horses, making them more appropriate for an island teeming with mosquitoes. They consume less food and require less water than horses, making them less expensive to maintain. They also live longer than horses, making them more economical for Sanibel farmers.
“Stop by the village during our mule celebration, take a picture with our new life-sized mule, and learn more about this amazing animal that helped make Sanibel possible,” Alfino said.
It is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. In accordance with the city’s regulations, masks are required inside the buildings. The Rutland House is temporarily closed for repairs.
Full guided tours are available only if reserved in advance for groups of between six and 10, depending on docent availability. This precautionary measure is due to COVID-19.
Admission is $10 for ages 18 and older; children and members are free.
For more information or to donate, call 239-472-4648 or visit www.sanibelmuseum.org.
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is at 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.