Collier County is rich in history, from prehistoric creatures to modern-day traffic woes. WINK News explored this history and how residents can voice their concerns.
Elaina Gyuer, the curator of education for the Collier County Museum Division, shared insights into the area's ancient past.
"12,000 15,000 years ago, there were mammoths there, and it's really cool to think about that," said Gyuer.
A significant find, a mammoth tooth, was discovered in the 1970s in Palm River Estates, a neighborhood in North Collier. This discovery highlights the area's prehistoric significance.
As traffic and transportation issues continue to grow, WINK News is offering residents the opportunity to express their concerns through the "WINK Listens" event.
It's a chance for locals to share what they love about where they live or what needs fixing.
In discussing the area's development, Gyuer explained that Naples has grown significantly and is now the county seat, although Everglades City was the first seat.
"That was Barron Collier's favorite place in this county," she said, noting his impact on tourism.
Tom Lockyear, the Museum of the Everglades manager, shared more about Collier's influence.
"Well, he was a little too successful," said Lockyear, emphasizing Collier's role in developing the area.
"Once you've got that, suddenly you've got enough bed linens that you need your own laundry," he said, referring to the hotel and laundry facilities Collier built.
By the late 1950s, Naples became the center of life in the county, though a vote in 1959, delayed by Hurricane Donna, officially made it the county seat.
"There's a mistaken belief that it happened because of Hurricane Donna in 1960," said Lockyear.
"There was actually a vote done in 1959," added Gyuer.
Although East Naples technically serves as the county seat, the history and growth of Collier County continue to intrigue residents and visitors alike.
Residents can meet the WINK News team on Wednesday at the YMCA North Collier Campus on YMCA Road from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.