Note Type
Historical NoteNote
Ida Erkins 1871-1960
Ida Erkins was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio before moving to Fort Lauderdale with her son. In 1894, Ida married Albert Erkins, an art glass manufacturer, and divorced him in 1911. In 1918, Ida began traveling to Fort Lauderdale for the winter season. Her son, A.W. Erkins, desired citrus grove land which brought Fort Lauderdale to their attention. They invested in property, as well as the Sunset Theatre, which Ida saw open while staying at Hotel Broward.
Finding Fort Lauderdale to be such a pleasant place, Ida commissioned a house designed by famed local architect, Francis Abreu. Built in 1926, this house would become known as “Casa Sonriendo” or “Smiling House”. Located on the New River, Casa Sonriendo was known as one of the most beautiful homes in the fledgling city. An art enthusiast and avid traveler, Ida decorated her home with artwork from all over the world. Often hosting events, fundraisers, and various philanthropic clubs, Casa Sonriendo was a gathering place for Fort Lauderdale society.