The Old Naples Historian with Dr. Lois Bolin

In this episode of Icons of Naples, Kristen sits down with Dr. Lois Bolin, the woman widely known as the "Old Naples Historian." For nearly 5 decades, Dr. Bolin has dedicated herself to preserving the cultural landscape of Naples, ensuring the community’s heritage isn't lost to the rapid tides of development. From her early days as a competitive tennis player to founding Naples Backyard History, Lois has been at the forefront of how Naples remembers itself. Lois shares a treasure trove of local "family stories," offering a unique look at the business districts, the philanthropic giants who saved the Naples Pier, and the deep-rooted military history of Southwest Florida. This conversation is an essential guide for anyone who wants to understand the soul of the community beyond the modern skylines. “History is nothing more than family stories...stories about families that did stuff they ought not to do and family stories about families that did what they were supposed to.” — Dr Lois Bolin. Thank you to our location sponsor, Ferrari of Naples, for allowing us to record in their space. Thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.