Florida island held by one family for 150 years hits the market

Bannon Island, a private island in central Florida, has been listed for sale for the first time in roughly 150 years. The property, located inland between Orlando and Tampa, has remained in the same family since Irish-born carpenter Patrick Bannon acquired it in the 1880s. Bannon, who had worked on projects for prominent New York families, established a citrus grove and fish camp on the island, making it both a home and a working estate. He lived there until his death in 1942, and his descendants have maintained ownership ever since.

The island offers complete seclusion while being within about 45 minutes of two major cities. The main residence is a 5,034-square-foot home that blends two eras of Florida architecture. One side features reclaimed cypress wood and reflects old Florida style, while the other side includes a modern kitchen designed to serve from two to forty people. The home has three bedrooms and four bathrooms, with additional spaces that could serve as sleeping quarters. Large windows provide views of Lake Marion and fill the interior with natural light.

In addition to the main house, there is a separate 2,698-square-foot duplex called the Dog Trot, which contains two identical units, each with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. This duplex was used by the family while the main house was being expanded. The property also includes fruit groves and multiple outbuildings.

The listing agent, Kleine, notes that the island could appeal to buyers seeking a venue for weddings, special occasions, or family reunions, or to those who want complete privacy with convenient access to Tampa and Orlando. The sale marks a rare opportunity to own a piece of Florida history that has been privately held for generations.