Over 140 years in the Making
E. H. Eduardo Hidalgo Gato came to Key West as a Cuban immigrant and built his fortune in the cigar industry. A Cuban patriot, he helped finance Cuba's revolutionary leaders—including national hero José Martí—in the fight for freedom from Spain. In 1871 he opened his first cigar-rolling factory in Key West, hiring the most skilled artisans in the trade. Gato was instrumental in Key West's evolution from a small fishing town to one of Florida's wealthiest cities.
The Southernmost Point Guest House is an ocean-view bed and breakfast on the quiet end of world-renowned Duval Street. This house, with its elaborate Queen Anne–style detailing, was built in 1885 by Gato. The rambling Victorian would become one of Key West's most recognizable landmarks along the street he helped shape.
Soon after the house was built, Gato realized the rambling Victorian home was not getting the right sun exposure on his favorite porches, so he moved the house across the street. He had the huge structure rolled on logs pulled by mules. He also rotated the house to create the most favorable mix of sun and shade. Many of our guests find the location of the Southernmost Point Guest House difficult to pinpoint because the house retained its "odd" numbered address (1327), even though it moved to the "even" side of the street.
The Santiago family purchased the home in 1987 and converted it into the charming bed and breakfast that exists today. The 13-room house has been renovated and restored with great care to detail. It is surrounded by tropical foliage, with relaxing Adirondack chairs and seating nestled in the gardens. Tall, mature palms provide privacy to the second-story porches, and exotic orchids dot the property.
In 2013, the E.H. Gato House was recognized as a Florida Heritage Site by the Florida Department of State. With this distinction, the Gato House is recognized for its significant role in Florida's history—memorialized with the iconic black wrought-iron sign at the corner of Duval & South Streets.
Matriarch & Visionary for the establishment of the property in 1987
Owner
Sandy's Daughter & Southernmost Point Bar Manager
Sandy's Wife & Property Manager
Welcome to our third generation family-run business. We are on-property daily to welcome you and make your experience one to remember. All of our guests become part of the Santiago Family.
