Barnacle, The

The distinctive vernacular architecture that prevailed in Miami at the end of the 19th century is wonderfully preserved in Commodore Ralph Munroe's former home.

The former home of local pioneer Commodore Ralph Munroe, the Barnacle is an outstanding example of the vernacular architecture constructed in Miami-Dade County during the late nineteenth century. Named for the distinctive shape of its roof, the Barnacle is surrounded by a tropical hardwood hammock forest and overlooks Biscayne Bay. Built as a one-story house, the second story was added by lifting the entire first floor and inserting a new floor below. The Barnacle is administered by the State of Florida and is open to the public for guided tours. This building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.