This mural was destroyed by Hurricane “Charley” on August 13, 2004. For the current status on the re-creation of this mural, please visit our web site at www.puntagordamurals.com.

Back in the late 1800’s, Punta Gorda was a bustling town located at the end of the railway system.  The Hotel Punta Gorda was built and catered to wealthy tourists who brought their yachts and private rail cars to help them enjoy their stay. 

The city became a major stop for steamships going between New Orleans and Havana, Cuba.  In the early 1920’s, Florida Governor Barron Collier bought the hotel and changed its name to Hotel Charlotte Harbor.  It was noted for its huge swimming pool, tennis courts and private pier.  Unfortunately, the hotel was destroyed by fire in 1959.  The Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society chose the Hotel Charlotte Harbor for its first mural.

Portraits of seven famous people who stayed in the hotel were on this giant mural.  They include:
Thomas A. Edison (Inventor)
Andrew W. Mellon (Steel)
Harvey S. Firestone (Tires)
Clarence S. Darrow (Attorney/Labor Leader)
Henry Ford (Auto Manufacturer)
Patti Berg (Lady Pro Golfer)
Daniel C. Beard (One of the early Boy Scout founders in America)

The artist, Tom Graham began the mural in January 1995.  It took eight months to complete and was dedicated on October 11, 1995. 
 

Dedicated October 11, 1995