Historical House of Refuge Still Welcoming People After 140 Years

Shipwrecks, storms and saving lives are all part of the Treasure Coast’s adventurous history. Whether on land or by sea, you’ll have to figure out which “Treasure” you want to explore first!

With ideal weather year-round on the Treasure Coast, there is always something to explore in the outdoors. Take a step back in time and check out Martin County’s oldest building, the House of Refuge Museum at Gilbert’s Bar.

Located on Hutchinson Island, this House of Refuge is the only remaining one of its kind on the east coast of Florida. Built as one of ten original “Houses of Refuge,” it is the oldest structure in Martin County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Experience where shipwrecked sailors and travelers stayed after making to shore.

This facility was also used during World War II as a lookout for enemy submarines. If you visit the House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar, you will learn even more about the historical significance of this building and the unique role it played.

Interested in ghost stories? There will be a book signing at the House of Refuge on Sunday, Oct. 29 at 1p.m. for “Ghosts of the Treasure Coast.” Not only are there stories about who haunts the House of Refuge, but also the Native Americans who inhabited the land years before settlers came to Florida.

Just down the road from the House of Refuge is Bathtub Beach and Reef. You can access this reef from the beach or by boat. Experience the beautiful corals and wildlife that this habitat provides. Since the reef protects the beach area, it’s the perfect place to bring the kids or grandkids to snorkel and play in the water.

There’s no better lifestyle than one on the water, and there’s no better waterfront living than Harbour Ridge. Located on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, Harbour Ridge is a premier waterfront golf community set amongst 885 acres of natural Florida landscape. An opportunity waiting to be found, this extraordinary waterfront community with two championship golf courses offers the perfect lifestyle for active sports enthusiasts, nature lovers and savvy homebuyers.

At Harbour Ridge, you can keep your boat in your backyard, at our beautiful 98-slip marina, and exclusively experience the Historical House of Refuge and Bathtub Reef from the nearby ocean. Imagine the lifestyle you could live and the fun you could have. Request a free digital brochure for more information on Harbour Ridge and the unique lifestyle it offers. You might be surprised!