WGCU producers recently dove into the history behind the surprising pronunciation of Sanibel Island.

Some islanders swear by the little-known pronunciation that continues to be used by the mayor of Sanibel, Richard Johnson, and family members behind Bailey’s General Store, which was founded in 1899.

WGCU is your trusted source for news and information in Southwest Florida. We are a nonprofit public service, and your support is more critical than ever. Keep public media strong and donate now. Thank you.