During World War II, Anna Maria played a modest role as part of Florida’s coastal defense network. Soldiers stationed in the region trained on the beaches, and the island’s residents contributed to the war effort.
The postwar years brought renewed growth. Air conditioning, better roads, and the rise of Florida as a tourist destination drew more visitors. Anna Maria’s charm lay in its balance between development and preservation. While neighboring areas like Sarasota and St. Petersburg expanded rapidly, Anna Maria retained a slower pace of life.
Preservation of “Old Florida”
By the latter half of the 20th century, Anna Maria faced the challenge of balancing growth with preservation. Residents and leaders sought to protect the island’s character from overdevelopment. Strict zoning regulations limited the height of buildings and prevented the construction of large-scale resorts.
This commitment to preserving “Old Florida” charm became a defining feature of Anna Maria. Unlike other coastal communities that embraced high-rises and mass tourism, Anna Maria retained cottages, small inns, and family-owned businesses.
Community pride also manifested in historic preservation. The Roser Church, the Anna Maria City Pier, and other early landmarks were maintained as symbols of the island’s heritage. shutdown123