Florida Private Island Listed for $12 Million After 150 Years

Bannon Island, a 23.32-acre private island situated on Lake Marion near Haines City, Florida, has been listed for sale at $12 million, representing the first time it has been available to the public in approximately 150 years. The island, located between the major metropolitan areas of Orlando and Tampa, is accessible exclusively by boat, helicopter, or seaplane, offering a unique blend of seclusion and proximity to urban centers. Its current listing agent, Lisa Kleine of Red Bird Realty, highlighted the rarity of an interior freshwater island of this size in Florida, especially given its strategic location.

The island's history dates back to the 1880s when it was settled by Patrick Bannon, an Irish carpenter. Bannon, who had previously worked on Vanderbilt family mansions in New York City, relocated to Florida and befriended the Native American inhabitants of the land, who subsequently gifted him the parcel. He envisioned and developed the island as a private retreat, beginning with the construction of an octagonal, two-story home shaped like a Celtic cross, utilizing reclaimed cypress for its walls. This original structure has remained standing on the island since its construction, serving as a testament to its historical significance and Bannon's vision. The island's name, Bannon Island, honors its original settler and the Bannon family, who have maintained ownership for generations.

The property encompasses a sprawling main house, designed to accommodate modern luxury while retaining a sense of historical charm. The island's unique geography and the enduring legacy of its first owner contribute to its appeal as a distinctive real estate offering. The listing agent emphasized the property's ability to provide a "feeling of stepping back in time" while still offering the amenities necessary for contemporary living. The island's size, nearly 24 acres, combined with its exclusive access points, further enhances its appeal for buyers seeking unparalleled privacy and a connection to a rich historical narrative. The sale marks a significant moment for a property that has been a private family estate for over a century and a half, offering a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Florida's interior lake history.