The luxury market often moves like the tide—quiet for a moment, then suddenly revealing something rare upon the shore. Off Florida’s Gulf Coast, one such offering has emerged: a private island with roots in another century, now seeking a new steward at a price that reflects both land and legend.

Burgess Island, a 104-acre private property near Fort Myers, has been listed for $89 million. The island includes a Mediterranean Revival mansion built in 1928, blending historic architecture with the appeal of seclusion in one of America’s most closely watched real estate regions.

The residence was originally developed by inventor Charles Frederick Burgess, known for contributions to dry-cell battery technology. Reports note that Thomas Edison was among the notable guests who once visited the estate, adding another thread of historical interest to the property’s identity.

Current owner Mark Pentecost purchased the island in 2015 for $14.5 million. Since then, the grounds have reportedly seen extensive upgrades, including recreational amenities such as a nine-hole golf course, helipad, sports facilities, and additional guest accommodations.

During the pandemic years, the island served as both a private family retreat and a venue for company gatherings. That dual use reflected a broader shift among wealthy buyers who sought homes that could function as sanctuary, workplace, and hospitality space all at once.

The listing arrives at a time when waterfront and ultra-private estates continue to command attention despite fluctuations elsewhere in the housing market. Buyers at this level often seek more than square footage; they seek distance, autonomy, and permanence.

Real estate agents involved in the sale say the island could be subdivided into dozens of lots, though many observers expect a buyer may prefer to preserve it as a singular estate.

Whether it changes hands quickly or waits patiently, Burgess Island now joins the small class of properties that are marketed less as homes and more as worlds unto themselves.

The property remains actively listed, and market response will likely reveal how strongly privacy and history still resonate in high-end real estate.

AI Image Disclaimer: These accompanying visuals are AI-generated interpretations based on publicly reported property details.

Sources: The Wall Street Journal, Mansion Global, Realtor.com