The 20-ton 'Annie' dragon sculpture, a fixture on Merritt Island's southern tip since 1971, was demolished in 2022 after more than five decades as a local landmark. The concrete and steel structure, built by artist Lewis VanDercar and property owner Aynn Christal, once stood on private land overlooking the Banana River lagoon. Its removal marked the end of an era for Brevard County's public art history.
Constructed in 1971, the sculpture required workers to haul 20 tons of materials by wheelbarrow to the remote Dragon Point location. The only access to the site at the time was a wooden boardwalk, adding to the challenge of building the piece. VanDercar and Christal created the dragon on land that had been part of the Dragon Point Mansion since 1961.
For over 50 years, the sculpture was a familiar sight to boaters and residents. Its distinctive shape made it a navigational marker for those traveling through the Banana River. Brevard County Historian noted the piece was 'a unique and beloved part of the Merritt Island community.'
The sculpture's demolition in 2022 sparked mixed reactions. Some saw its removal as the loss of a quirky local icon, while others cited safety concerns and maintenance challenges. The structure had become increasingly weathered over time, requiring ongoing repairs.
Aynn Christal, who co-created the sculpture with VanDercar, had long maintained the site. The pair designed the dragon to blend with the natural surroundings, using materials that could withstand the coastal environment. Despite its age, the sculpture remained a symbol of Merritt Island's creative spirit until its final days.