John Ringling did indeed own a significant portion of Longboat Key during the 1920s. He was a prominent figure in the circus industry as one of the famous Ringling Brothers, and he also had a keen interest in real estate investment.
During this time, Longboat Key was a relatively undeveloped barrier island located off the coast of Sarasota, Florida. Ringling saw the potential of this beautiful stretch of land and decided to purchase hundreds of acres on the south end of the island.
One of Ringling’s notable contributions to Longboat Key was the planting of Australian pine trees along what was then known as Ringling Boulevard, now called Gulf of Mexico Drive. These trees were introduced to the area as an experiment to stabilize the sandy soil and prevent erosion. While the Australian pines did serve this purpose, they eventually became an invasive species and are now widely regarded as a nuisance in many parts of Florida.
Ringling’s ownership of Longboat Key was part of his larger vision for the development of Sarasota. He had already established the Ringling Circus winter quarters in Sarasota and had been instrumental in transforming the city into a cultural destination.
In addition to his real estate ventures on Longboat Key, Ringling also played a pivotal role in the development of the nearby St. Armands Key. He purchased the island in 1917 and set out to transform it into a luxurious residential and commercial area. Today, St. Armands Circle is a popular shopping and dining destination, thanks in part to Ringling’s vision and investment.
While Ringling owned a significant portion of Longboat Key, it is important to note that he did not own the entire island. Over the years, the ownership and development of Longboat Key have changed hands multiple times, with various individuals and organizations contributing to its growth and transformation.
John Ringling did indeed own a significant portion of Longboat Key during the 1920s. His investment in the island, along with his other real estate ventures in the Sarasota area, played a crucial role in shaping the development of this beautiful barrier island.