GEORGE ADDERLEY HOUSE

By  Mike Miller May 28, 2025

The George Adderley House is a historic home in Marathon, Florida. Located at 5550 Overseas Highway, it’s part of Crane Point Museum and Nature Center.

Built between 1903 and 1905, it’s the oldest house in the Florida Keys outside Key West. The Bahamian-style house uses tabby construction. Visitors can explore its history and nearby trails. 

George Adderley House

George Adderley, a Black Bahamian immigrant, arrived in the Keys in 1890. He married Olivia in 1896. In 1902, they bought 32 acres on Key Vaca for $100.

George built the house using tabby, a mix of burnt shells, ash, sand, and water. He worked as a sponger, turtler, and charcoal maker, sailing to Key West to sell goods.

A small community, Adderley Town, grew around them with five to ten homes. George served as an Episcopal lay preacher. The 1906 railroad survey noted ten houses.

Residents secured a flag stop, Station Vaca, when the railroad was built for easier Key West access. The Adderleys sold the land in 1949 to Francis and Mary Crane. Olivia died in 1950.

George moved to Key West. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992. 

The George Adderley House is at 5550 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. From US-1, turn at the light between Publix and Winn-Dixie.

It’s within Crane Point Museum and Nature Center, open Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM, and Sunday, noon to 5 PM. Call (305) 743-9100 for tour schedules.

Guided or self-guided tours are available; check at the museum entrance. The 1.2-mile trail system includes the house. Wear comfortable shoes and bring bug spray.

Visit early to avoid heat. Photography is allowed but stay on paths. The museum has exhibits on Keys history and wildlife. 

• The house is Florida’s only surviving tabby structure.  

• Tabby construction originated in North Africa, brought via Spanish Moors.  

• A separate kitchen reduced fire risks to the main house.  

• The 2017 restoration earned a Florida Trust for Historic Preservation award.  

• Adderley Town had a flag stop for the Overseas Railroad.  

• Artifacts from Adderley Town are displayed at Crane Point’s museum.  

• George sailed 20-foot boats to Key West for trade. 

CRANE POINT MUSEUM WEBSITE