Sarasota Story

We have always heard so much about Sarasota from friends and family and finally made it to this culture-rich and elegant city on the southwest coast of Florida this frigid January. Many people are attracted by the beaches in the area, and indeed Siesta Key with its dazzling fine white sand [almost like powdered sugar] has been winning accolades from beach experts for some time now. If the weather had not turned a little cooler, we probably would not have ventured into the museum scene. After all, we only had a week there and the sun was the focus of our attention.

I had not been aware of The Ringling before and was surprised, intrigued, and amazed at what we saw and heard. The Ringling is the legacy of circus magnate and financier John Ringling and his wife Mable. The 66 acre complex on the shores of Sarasota Bay includes an art museum, a circus museum, library, theater, Bayfront gardens and a winter residence named Ca’d’Zan or House of John [Ringling].

I have never been fond of circuses and I especially disliked clowns. So I walked into this museum with some trepidation. However, it did not take long to get swept up in the beauty and history of the place.  I wish I had brought my good camera with me. The architecture of Ca’d’Zan and the museum is breath-taking and the grounds simply beautiful. Historic banyan, and bamboo thrive here. A rose garden founded by Mable Ringling in 1913 is laid out in a wagon wheel design – perhaps reflecting the colorful wheels of circus wagons in days gone by.

Most engaging was the personal story of John and Mable, who both came from very humble rural backgrounds. One of five brothers, John rose to become one of the richest men in America with an estimated wealth of $200 million in 1925- that’s approximately $2.6 billion today.

During the Great Depression he lost his beloved wife, and his entire fortune. He died in 1936 with only $311 in the bank.  John Ringling was however able to hold on to his Sarasota home Ca’d’Zan built in a Venetian gothic style, his Renaissance- style museum and his extensive European art collection  by donating it to the people of Florida. Currently, the Ringling is run by Florida State University.

If you ever find yourself in Sarasota, enjoy the beaches but make sure to head to this museum and be prepared to be transported to some old world charm and many good memories, thanks to John and Mabel.

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