Historic $12 Million Private Island That Can Only Be Reached by Air or Boat Hits the Market for the First Time in 150 Years

An extraordinary private island in Florida that was settled by an Irish carpenter in the 1880s—and has remained in the hands of his family ever since—has hit the market for the very first time. Located on Lake Marion near Haines City, the 23.32-acre parcel, which is known as Bannon Island in honor of the man who first built a home upon it, sits directly between Orlando and Tampa, and is only accessible by boat, helicopter, or seaplane. However, it is the location of the island that is especially rare, according to listing agent Lisa Kleine of Red Bird Realty, who has brought the property to the market for $12 million, marking the first time in around 150 years it has been made available to buyers. “Saltwater islands are common as you get down to the Keys, but to have one in the interior of Florida, specifically in between Orlando and Tampa, makes it a great location for somebody who craves privacy but at the same time wants to be in the middle of it all,” Kleine explains. “I love the feeling of stepping back in time, but still having all the luxury accommodations needed to enjoy life today.”Loading...The island is in an inland lake and is almost 24 acres. BlueBird Property MediaLoa...