In 1528, not long after Christopher Columbus discovered the 'New World', Spanish explorers came ashore on the Pinellas peninsula and discovered what is now known as Treasure Island. Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Boca Ciega Bay, the peaceful mangrove filled island served as a refuge for marine life and several tribes of migrating Indians. But Indians, like the gentle Timucuan tribe, were soon driven away by Europeans searching for gold and a never-to-be found "Fountain of Youth". For decades, the island's bird sanctuaries remained virtually undisturbed, save for pirates and smugglers taking advantage of the pristine island hideaway and hearty settlers intent on fishing and hunting. In 1908, Thomas F. Pierce became the first official land holder, purchasing the island from the State of Florida for $1.25 and acre. In 1915 the first hotel was erected by a man called Whiteford Smith Harrell and using a 65 foot boat named the "Don", Harrell shuttled visitors over from the mainland. He and others who followed him in purchasing land or cottage shacks, saw a great potential in the island becoming a resort city. In fact, one group of investors was so inspired, it buried an old weathered oak chest on the island, later uncovered it in front of a small audience and proceeded to parade it down the city's main street like some great pirate treasure chest find. Thus the name Treasure Island was borne and the island sold. Though the island passed through several short real estate booms, residential development did not really begin until the Treasure Island Causeway was constructed in 1939.  In 1955, the island's four major communities consolidated to form the current day Treasure Island. In addition three major subdivisions, Isle of Capri, Isle of Palms and Paradise Island were created by landfill from the surrounding Boca Ciega Bay. Today, some 400 years between "discovery and development", the 3.5 mile long island is home to some 7,266 year round residents. During the tourist season the island hosts more than 24,000 visitors.