Fort East Martello Museum occupies a Civil War-era fort at 3501 S Roosevelt Blvd on Key West’s southeastern shore. The brick fort, built in 1862, now holds military relics and exhibits on local history, fishing, sponging and Cuban settlement. Look for Stanley Papio’s found-art sculptures, Mario Sanchez’s carvings and paintings of Old Key West, and Robert the Doll, the museum’s best-known resident. Climb the spiral staircase to the roof for views toward Smathers Beach. Some exhibits may be closed or incomplete, so call ahead if a particular display matters to you.
A Civil War fort turned museum
Fort East Martello was built in 1862 to help protect Key West’s coast. The Union military worked on the fort through the Civil War, but it never saw battle. The Key West Art & Historical Society opened it as a museum in the 1950s.
The fort’s preserved brick walls and open courtyards give the site a sense of its military past. Its collection moves from the island’s history to art and folklore, with military effects and artifacts connected to early settlement, fishing, sponging and shipwrecks.
Art and artifacts from the Keys
Look for Stanley Papio’s sculptures made from found objects, along with carvings, paintings and drawings by Cuban folk artist Mario Sanchez. His work depicts Old Key West. The museum also displays a Cuban refugee raft and material connected to the Keys’ maritime and working history.
The collections range from military relics to local art, so allow time to look beyond the exhibits about the fort itself. Some displays have been covered or were not fully installed at the time described in the available material. Check ahead if you are planning your visit around a specific exhibit.
Robert the Doll and the fort’s ghost stories
Robert the Doll is the museum’s most famous resident. The doll belonged to artist Robert Eugene Otto and is now displayed in a glass case. Stories surrounding Robert have made the doll part of Key West’s supernatural folklore.
The museum’s eerie exhibits sit alongside its historical collections. Treat the displays with care and follow the rules posted for interacting with Robert and other artifacts. The museum also hosts ghost tours, including VIP experiences that let participants explore the fort at night with ghost-hunting equipment.
Climb to the roof
A spiral staircase leads to the roof, where you can look toward Smathers Beach and the Atlantic coast. The upper level gives a different perspective on the fort’s layout and its position on Key West’s southeastern side.
The museum is at 3501 S Roosevelt Blvd. If you want a quieter look at Robert and the galleries, an early visit is a practical choice. Night tours provide a contrasting way to experience the fort, but check tour details and availability with the museum before making plans.
FAQ
Where is Fort East Martello Museum?
The museum is at 3501 S Roosevelt Blvd, on Key West’s southeastern shore.
How long should I plan for a visit?
The exhibits can be seen in under an hour, though you may want more time for the galleries, Robert the Doll and the rooftop.
Can you see Robert the Doll at the museum?
Yes. Robert the Doll is displayed at Fort East Martello Museum. Follow the museum’s rules around the exhibit.
Are ghost tours available?
The museum offers day and night tours, including VIP ghost tours. Check with the museum for current tour details.
