By: Katrina Salokar | EastLeeNews.com
The LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation is proud to announce that the historic Captain Francis A. Hendry House, home of Captain Francis Asbury Hendry, founder of LaBelle, has been selected for inclusion on the 2026 Florida’s 11 to Save list by the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, one of the state’s most recognized historic preservation advocacy programs.
The building was nominated for the program by Alex DeStefano, president of the LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation, as part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to support historic preservation and long-term planning for the property.The announcement was made on May 14 during the Preserve Florida 2026 conference in St. Petersburg.
The annual 11 to Save program highlights endangered historic sites across Florida that are considered culturally and historically significant to their communities. Inclusion on the list opens the door to technical assistance, statewide advocacy, public awareness campaigns, and public awareness for future preservation efforts.
The Captain Francis A. Hendry House, built in 1914 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is recognized as one of the most important historic structures in Hendry County. The home is closely tied to the legacy of Captain Francis Asbury Hendry, the namesake of Hendry County, the founder of LaBelle, and one of the region’s founding pioneers. The Florida Trust noted that the home faces ongoing challenges related to age, environmental exposure, structural deterioration, and the high cost of restoration and long-term preservation.
“This is a major step forward for the Hendry House and for the future of historic preservation in LaBelle,” said DeStefano. “The Hendry House being selected for Florida’s 11 to Save program is an incredible opportunity. This recognition brings statewide attention to the importance of preserving the property and gives us access to technical guidance through the Florida Trust as we continue working with the City and community partners to plan for its future. There is real momentum building around this project, and it is exciting to see the level of support growing.”
Executive Director Jerika Mungillo, who has championed the Hendry House project since its inception, expressed appreciation for the community support behind the initiative’s progress.
“I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who has supported this effort and contributed their time, energy, and vision to moving the Hendry House project forward,” Mungillo said. “Seeing the project gain this kind of recognition is rewarding, and I’m looking forward to watching all of the hard work begin turning into something lasting for the community.”
According to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, inclusion on the 11 to Save list is intended to serve as the beginning of a collaborative preservation process focused on developing long-term solutions tailored to each property.
For more information about the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation and the 2026 Florida’s 11 to Save program, visit FloridaTrust.org.
