City Of Anna Maria

The quaint City of Anna Maria is located at the northern end of Anna Maria Island. Inhabited by friendly, easy going, island residents, this city exudes the charm of “Old Florida” when living was easy and times were good. Fishing piers, quaint, island shops and numerous restaurants await you. Winding streets take you though residential neighborhoods, where lush, tropical landscaping surrounds you. Rent a scooter or a bike, take a walk or ride the free Island trolley, but don’t miss one inch of the City of Anna Maria.

George Emerson Bean was the first permanent resident of Anna Maria, homesteading much of the island in the year 1893. Bean Point at the northernmost tip of Anna Maria bears his name. George’s son George Wilhelm Bean developed most of Anna Maria.

In 1911 a pier was constructed at the end of Pine Avenue. Today, the Anna Maria City Pier still remains and has been a haven for fishermen ever since.

A partner of George Emerson Bean, John Roser built the first church on the island in 1913 in honor of his mother. Roser Memorial Community Church still stands on Pine Avenue and offers regular church services.

The year 1913 also brought the first school to Anna Maria, although the population barely warranted it. A newer, more modern elementary school was built in the 1950’s which remained vibrant and active until the year 2005 when a brand new multi-million dollar campus was constructed.

It wasn’t until 1921 that bridges were available to reach the Anna Maria Island. Until that time, the only way to reach the island was by boat. Many of the older island homes were transported to Anna Maria by barge.  In the 1950’s access to the island was still over an old wooden bridge. In 1959, our current bridges were constructed opening the doors to many island goers who have fallen in love with the charm and ambience of Anna Maria Island.

From this humble beginning, the City of Anna Maria has grown to a population of close to 2000 full time island residents, all the while, maintaining the laid back and peaceful lifestyle it’s founders envisioned.