CAPTAIN FRANCIS A. HENDRY HOUSE

By  Mike Miller May 10, 2025

The Captain Francis A. Hendry House in LaBelle, Florida, stands as a significant historical landmark, reflecting the legacy of one of the region's most influential figures.

Captain Francis A. Hendry House

Located at 512 Fraser Street in LaBelle, the Captain Francis A. Hendry House is a notable example of early 20th-century architecture in Southwest Florida.

Built in 1914, this Frame Vernacular-style residence was the home of Captain Francis Asbury Hendry, a prominent cattle rancher, Confederate officer, and the founder of LaBelle.

The house is the only surviving structure associated with Hendry in the county and was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on February 5, 1998.

Captain Hendry played a pivotal role in the development of LaBelle and the surrounding region.

Captain Francis A. Hendry

Born in 1833, he moved to Florida in the early 1850s and became a successful cattle rancher.

During the Civil War, he served as a captain in the Confederate Army's Cow Cavalry, protecting cattle herds vital to the Confederate supply chain.

After the war, Hendry continued to expand his ranching operations and became a significant political figure, serving in both the Florida Senate and House of Representatives.

In 1909, he platted the town of LaBelle, naming it after his daughters Laura and Belle .

In recognition of his contributions, the Florida Legislature established Hendry County in 1923, with LaBelle as its county seat.

The Captain Hendry House is situated adjacent to the LaBelle Nature Park, offering visitors a serene environment to explore.

While the house is not regularly open for public tours, it is available for private events and can be rented through the City of LaBelle.

Interested parties should contact the City Hall's Utility Billing Department at 481 W. Hickpochee Avenue, LaBelle, FL 33935, or call (863) 675-2872 for rental information .

Visitors are encouraged to check in advance for availability and any scheduled events.

• The house was constructed by Benjamin F. Magill in 1914, reflecting the Frame Vernacular architectural style common in Florida during that period.
  
  
• Captain Hendry's contributions to the region were so significant that both the city of LaBelle and Hendry County bear his name, a rare honor reflecting his impact on local history.
  
  
• Despite its historical importance, the house has faced challenges in preservation. In recent years, it suffered vandalism, leading to temporary closures and restoration efforts to maintain its structural integrity and historical authenticity .

The Captain Francis A. Hendry House remains a testament to the rich history of LaBelle and the enduring legacy of one of its founding figures.