Florida Historical Markers Programs - Marker Detail

Description: Before 1951, Duck Key was an isolated island with minor salt production and cultivation of sea cotton. In 1951, Miami developer Bryan W. Newkirk Sr. and his business partners, Telfair Knight, Robert Eugene Otto, and his son, Bryan W. Newkirk Jr. began developing Duck Key. Originally one large island, a series of canals were dredged to divide it into five separate islands (Indies, Centre, Harbour, Plantation, and Yacht Club) connected by four ornately designed bridges. Otto, a Key West-based artist, designed each island to have a unique style and theme. Otto and Bryan W. Newkirk Jr. also designed the four bridges to connect the islands. The bridge designs, inspired by bridges in Venice, Italy, were ornately designed with decorative railings, pineapple and papaya finials, and steep curved profiles. The main resort at Duck Key, the Indies House, was designed by architect Morris Lapidus. Duck Key was a popular destination for celebrities and politicians. The first bridge connecting Indies Island was renamed the Truman Bridge in 1964 in commemoration of President Harry Truman who was a frequent visitor to Duck Key. The four bridges were rehabilitated in 1982, and replaced in 2021.