Beachgoers enjoying a busy day the the Manatee Public Beach in 1995.
Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Anna Maria Island
In the 100 years of the city of Anna Maria’s existence, the meaning of “island life” has rapidly developed.
However, some things have remained consistent — the friendly neighborhood atmosphere, the famous white sand covering the beach and the quaint restaurants and shops lining the streets.
The city of Anna Maria is throwing a Memorial Day and centennial celebration Monday from 10 a.m. to noon at the City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria.
In celebration of Anna Maria Island’s birthday, take a stroll through decades worth of history with the photos below:
Aerial
An aerial view of Manatee Public Beach in the 1970s. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
The Pier
The Anna Maria City Pier in the 1920s. The original part of the pier was built in 1911. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
A man fishes on the Anna Maria City Pier in 1920. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Bridges
Construction of the Manatee Avenue Bridge in 1956. Barges were used to steady the structure. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
A look at the Anna Maria bridge connecting Cortez and Anna Maria Island in 1922. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Streets
The Anna Maria Island Trolley in 1996, which travelled from mainland Bradenton to Longboat Key and throughout Anna Maria Island. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
A view of Pine Street in 1924 from the top of Angler’s Inn Hotel. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Buildings
A photo of Anna Maria Elementary School in the 1950s. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
The Sandbar restaurant in 1982. This photo shows the back of the outside deck dining area. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Duffy’s Tavern in 1979. The restaurant was built in 1954 and has become a staple for those visiting the island. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
The Bathhouse at Anna Maria in 1917. This building allowed visitors to change into bathing attire or buy ice cream. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Beach day
Multiple children playing and swimming at the Manatee Public Beach. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Beachgoers enjoying a busy day the the Manatee Public Beach in 1995. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Visitors and residents cooling off in the water at the Bradenton Beach in the 1920s. A structure in the water offers a diving board for use. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
Romance on the island
Campers at Anna Maria in the 1910s strolling the beach. The man on the left is holding a hunting gun, while the woman on the right holds her sunshade. This image later became the foundation of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society’s logo. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
A senior couple admires the Anna Maria City Pier from a bench in the 1970s. Manatee County Public Library Historical Digital Collection
