Nokomis Historical Trail

On October 26, 2002, the Venture Crew officially opened a 5.8-mile Nokomis Historical Trail to commemorate the courage of the pioneers that settled here. The ceremony took place at Venice-Nokomis United Methodist Church where a plaque marking the trailhead was unveiled. The dedication of this unique trail was officially announced by a special proclamation from the Sarasota County Council with local press and media coverage. The trailhead plaque is located on the East wall of the Music Room across from the Sanctuary.

If you are interested in walking the trail please call the Church Office for a set of directions, historical information about each site, and a list of questions that can only be answered by direct observation made at the most prominent historical locations and structures.

Participants who successfully complete the trail will be eligible to purchase the patch to commemorate their effort. Originally, Nokomis was known as “Horse and Chaise” because a growth of pines and palms on the shore resembled a horse and buggy to those passing along the coast on boats. In 1885, Horse and Chaise was large enough to warrant a Post Office. At this time the name Horse and Chaise was changed to Venice. In 1917, Venice changed its name to Nokomis and the area south of Roberts Bay was made into a separate town and officially named Venice.