Modern-day Marco began to emerge in 1962, when a trio of brothers from Florida's east coast visited and realized the tremendous potential for the island paradise. Having successfully developed other quality projects in the Sunshine State, the Mackle brothers formed Deltona Corporation, and they set out to create a resort island where people could live, work and play 365 days a year.

Canals were dredged to create extensive waterfront home sites and unprecedented advertising campaigns prepared Marco for its "Grand Opening" in January 1965. About 25,000 people attended the island's debut, and home sites and condominium residences began selling rapidly.

People continued to flock to Marco throughout the 1970s, as the quaint beach town evolved throughout the 1980s and 1990s into the exquisite island community that draws people from around the world with its beautiful year-round weather and miles of white-sand beaches. For residents and visitors alike, Marco's charms have stood the test of time.

Photos courtesy of the Marco Island Historical Society, Smithsonian Institution