East Martello Tower has unusual,
even ghostly historical keepsakes

This museum is also referred to as Fort Taylor #2 or Fort East Martello Tower Museum and Gardens.

The Fort is located at 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd, 305-296-3913.

This interesting structure was designed to replicate the fortress-type style commonly found in Italy.

Built with 8 foot thick granite walls, it was intended to withstand any onslaught.

However, as military weaponry technology advanced, the fort's ability to withstand any attack diminished. Just like it's sister, as well as Fort Jefferson Dry Tortugas, it was never completed.

Never serving it's intended purpose, it's now one of the more popular Key West museums. This beautifully constructed Fort is the last of it's kind standing. It's sheer size, hovering at water's edge, is one of it's most striking features.

Old Key West Fire Bell Outside Old Fort
State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory, Dale M. McDonald Collection

It houses a vast variety of interesting military artifacts and Key West memorabilia. As you stroll through the casements, the displays encompass everything from early American Indians to the swash-buckling days of pirates.

From the rich sponging industry to the profitable cigar manufacturing era. You're transported in time from when Key West was the wealthiest city in the United States to when it became the poorest city in the United States.

The museum also focuses on the spine tingling phenomenon of the many Key West ghosts, and it houses several unusual attractions. Robert the Doll is perhaps one of the most famous and sinister of Key West's eerie treasures.





There are also detailed collections of local artists on display. The gardens also have purpose and interest. Here you'll see an 80 year old children's playhouse which provides insight into the life of children in year's long past.

Forts are synonymous with battle which equates to death. This fort saw neither, remaining a virgin fort, just as Fort Zachary Taylor and Fort Jefferson did.

Even though this beautiful old Civil War structure is a bit off the typical Key West beaten path it's worth a visit. It's located next to the Key West airport, and while in the Conch Republic, you should plan on visiting this museum and her sister Fort.