This is the San Carlos Institute at 516 Duval Street, the Cuban heritage center and museum this community made their own. Listen for the quiet confidence of a place founded in 1871 by members of the Cuban exile community who had taken refuge here during the Ten Years' War (1868-1878). Leaders Juan María Reyes and José Dolores Poyo spearheaded the effort to create a home for language, cultural values, and the patriotic ideals of the Cuban people, and on November 11, 1871 the San Carlos officially opened its doors.
Over the years the building has been a host to cultural events, political meetings, and educational endeavors. Today the San Carlos is a multi-purpose facility serving Key West as a museum, library, school, conference center, theater, and art gallery. Inside and out it keeps several permanent installations related to Cuban history and continues to host popular cultural and artistic events for the community.
Picture how one address — 516 Duval Street — holds so much intention and memory, still alive in the building and the life along Duval Street today.