



For many on Marco Island, Tommie Barfield was an indomitable woman that brought roads, ferries, and schools to the tiny island in the early 20th century. A veritable Queen of Marco, as she was known. Few know about her vital role as a lobbyist on Barron Collier's behalf in Tallahassee, convincing the legislature to create Collier County in 1923. This exhibit will share that story.