Tierra Verde, a man-made island community between the mainland and Pass-a-Grille, has a rich history. In the early 1960s, famous bandleader Guy Lombardo lent his name to the development of Tierra Verde.
Guy Lombardo’s Port-o-Call
Lombardo’s association with Tierra Verde led to the creation of Guy Lombardo’s Port-o-Call, a restaurant, nightclub, marina, and motel. The establishment brought in prospective homebuyers, business conventions, and charity events.
The Port-o-Call Room had a capacity of 680 and featured a semi-circular stage and dancing area. A 1,200-pound ruby and crystal chandelier hung over the 60-foot bar. The Salon Rouge, a cocktail lounge, had its own small stage for entertainment.
Tierra Verde’s Development
In 1958, Texas oil moguls Clint Murchison and his brother John paid $12 million for 16 scrubby barrier islands in Boca Ciega Bay. New York developer Louis Berlanti and his son, Fred, became partners in charge of development and construction.
The development included a 50-room motel, a coffee shop, and a nine-hole golf course. The Pinellas Bayway, a $9.5 million project, was built to link the mainland and Fort DeSoto, which became a county park in 1962.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
