Nik Wallenda to Appear at Historical Marker Dedication

Sarasota’s resident daredevil Nik Wallenda plans to help the county’s Historical Commission pay homage to the Sarasota Bayfront’s rich past as it unveils a new marker on Saturday.

The new marker at Island Drive and Marina Plaza is being put in the spotlight at 10 a.m. Wallenda, who comes from a long line of daredevils, will act as the guest speaker.

Wallenda’s tightrope walk across Bayfront Drive last year made national headlines. His family’s daredevil roots date back to the 1920s when his grandparents toured as The Great Wallendas.

The new marker is meant to shed some light on the history of the downtown Bayfront, which has played a pivotal role in the growth and development of Sarasota through the years.

A pier constructed in 1886 paved the way for the eventual operation of a steamship service between Sarasota and Tampa and the area’s Hover Arcade once served as City Hall and a temporary home for the county’s first government, the county pointed out in a press release. The city pier itself drew business to the area as it became a popular spot for residents and visitors alike, thrusting Sarasota into the tourism spotlight.

The new marker will be located across from the Unconditional Surrender statute. Jeff LaHurd, county historian, is also slated to speak at the dedication.

What other landmarks would you like to see recognized with a marker? Share your ideas by commenting below!

Photo Credit: Patch File Photo

See Also:

• Sarasota Oks Nik Wallenda’s Tightrope Walk Over U.S. 41