Selections from the vast and varied collections of the Historical Society of Central Florida illustrate Central Florida’s fascinating past.
Explore our past
As an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the History Center presents limited-run exhibitions of great depth and insight.
On display now
Convenient parking options include the Central Boulevard garage across from the Orlando Public Library, the History Center’s neighbor.
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Around the Museum Blog
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03
Jan
“I’m the Gay Pastor of the Gay Church”
Read more about “I’m the Gay Pastor of the Gay Church”Joy MCC is part of the Metropolitan Community Churches across America, congregations that actively promote acceptance and understanding around issues of sexuality, gender, and race, to name a few key initiatives.
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20
Dec
Muslim Community Response to the Pulse Nightclub Shooting
Read more about Muslim Community Response to the Pulse Nightclub ShootingPart one of two focusing on religious response to the Pulse nightclub shooting and featuring oral histories from the History Center’s collection.
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29
Nov
Frank Billingsley awarded the 2021 Donald A. Cheney Award
Read more about Frank Billingsley awarded the 2021 Donald A. Cheney AwardCongratulations to Frank Billingsley, the 2021 recipient of our Donald A. Cheney Award, which each year honors a Central Floridian who embodies a lifelong dedication to preserving the area’s history.
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09
Nov
St. Matthew’s Tavern: Inclusive and Supportive
Read more about St. Matthew’s Tavern: Inclusive and SupportiveSt. Matthew’s Tavern has undergone multiple transformations throughout the history of the building on North Mills Avenue in Orlando. The building has housed a multitude of gay bars in the past, including the Silver Hammer, Cactus Club, and Paradise.
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01
Nov
Pulse: For the Community
Read more about Pulse: For the CommunityLong before the Pulse nightclub tragedy of June 12, 2016, Pulse had a special place in Orlando’s gay community. The club was hugely beloved. Established in 2004 by Barbara Poma and Ron Legler in memory of Barbara’s brother, Pulse came onto the scene later than the other bars.