Standard Marine Building has new owners

The Standard Marine building at North Second and Alachua Streets in Fernandina Beach has new owners.  On Friday, June 18, 2021, ownership of the building passed from developer Richard Goodsell to local real estate brokers Jenny and James Schaffer, owners of Summer House Realty for an undisclosed sum.

Although the property has been for sale for many years, owner Dick Goodsell was very particular about finding the right buyer for the building and a few of the lots associated with it.  He wanted to make sure that it would pass into hands of people who would appreciate the history of the town and who would be willing to invest in transforming it from what looked at times like a tear down to a building that would be a source of pride to owners, occupants and residents of Fernandina Beach.  He is convinced that he found those buyers in the Schaffers.

Jenny Schaffer reports that she has been interested in this property for many years and is excited to begin the transformation process.  She and her husband have already begun working with Historic District planner Sal Cumella to include the building in the local Historic District.  When contacted for comment, Ms. Schaffer said that she and  her husband will be working closely with the HDC, and schedules of their architect and contractor.  “We want to do it right so it will stand strong for future generations,” she wrote in her email.

The Schaffers are planning future retail, gathering, and café space with an expansive courtyard and water-view rooftop venue.

Jenny said, “We appreciate the tremendous positive response from the community and look forward to bringing this iconic building back to life. It will be a space for businesses to thrive and the community to make memories.”

Goodsell has retained 29 lots and waterfront property that comprised his original purchase of Standard Marine property. 

View Original Article by Suanne Z. Thamm with the Fernandina Observer

Additional Articles on the Standard Marine’s Building Purchase :
Augusta Business Daily Article- Click Here
News-Leader Article- Click Here