A private island situated in the center of Florida, Bannon Island, has been listed for sale at $12 million. The 23.3-acre estate in Lake Marion, near Haines City, has remained in the same family for approximately 150 years and is accessible only by boat, helicopter, or seaplane.
This unique property offers seclusion while being located less than an hour's drive from both Orlando and Tampa. The island's history dates back to the 1880s when it was acquired by Irish-born carpenter Patrick Bannon, who established a private retreat there. Before Bannon, the island was home to Echo Emathla Chipco, a Seminole chief, who maintained a camp until the 1880s.
Historic Home and Modern Additions
The estate features an original two-story home built by Bannon, designed with an octagonal central section and shaped like a Celtic cross, reflecting his Irish heritage. Constructed from cypress and pine lumber, the house has survived more than a century of Florida weather, including Hurricane Charley in 2004. The family later expanded the residence, creating a 5,034-square-foot main home that merges historic elements with contemporary design. A glass walkway connects the original section, with its reclaimed cypress walls, to a modern addition featuring extensive glass and updated interiors.
The main residence includes three bedrooms and four bathrooms. Notable features include a suspended library with a glass floor that appears to float above the living area and a custom-designed chandelier composed of approximately 100 blown-glass drops, intended to resemble a rainstorm. The owners installed split air conditioning units to create a subtle movement in the glass elements. A glass-walled space known as the L'Orangerie offers views of Lake Marion and maximizes natural light.
In addition to the main house, the estate has a 2,698-square-foot duplex, referred to as the Dog Trot, which contains two separate units, each with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property also includes four other accessory buildings.
Estate Grounds and Potential Uses
The island's grounds encompass 23.32 acres of native woodland, landscaped areas, and historic citrus groves, featuring Valencia oranges, grapefruit, and guava trees. The surrounding lake and forest support abundant wildlife. The lack of mainland road access provides a high degree of privacy.
Listing agent Lisa Kleine of Red Bird Realty suggests the estate could appeal to buyers seeking a private family compound, a conservation project, or an exclusive event venue. The property has also received a Century Pioneer Family Farm designation from the Florida Department of Agriculture for its continuous family ownership for over a century.
