Monkey Island Adventures

History of Monkey Island

   The story of Monkey Island starts in the 60's with G.A. "Furgy" Furgason. Also know as "Mr. Homosassa" Furgy was the Vice President for the Norris Cattle Company and a prominent figure in the community. He was responsible for developing much of the surrounding area including, but not limited to the current location for The Florida Cracker Riverside Resort and the Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park. At this time in the 1960's Monkey Island was just a pile of rocks hidden by the high tides and boats would often hit the submerged rocks. Furgy had one of his dredge operators pile dirt on the rocks to make it more noticeable. The pile of rocks turned into an unsightly island in the middle of the river. Furgy made the best of it and added some trees and a light house. Meanwhile, the Wildlife Park park having issues with several monkeys that were escaping from their cages and and wreaking havoc around the park. They stole purses, broke into cars and even bit some folks ! 

   Furgy had the brilliant idea to put these delinquents on his newly acquired "Island", essentially turning the previous rock pile into a Monkey Alcatraz. Additions, including a stilt home were added to the island to better accommodate the original 5 primates, three Spider Monkeys and two squirrel monkeys. Over the years monkeys have come and gone. Currently there are three spider monkeys that reside on Monkey Island. Ralph, Ebony and Emily. Even though ownership of the resort has changed hands in the past, the employees of the resort take care of the monkeys. The monkeys are fed a special diet of fruits, vegetables and monkey chow twice a day. These delightful creatures still entertain anyone who sees them as they frolic on their unique land...