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.
How to find us
Around the Museum Blog
-
03
Mar
Mabel Norris Reese: Fearless Voice for Truth
Read more about Mabel Norris Reese: Fearless Voice for TruthMabel Norris Reese began her life career in journalism in Akron, Ohio, where she first worked as a reporter for the Akron Times-Press and, from 1935 to 1941, as a reporter for the Akron Beacon-Journal. In 1947, she and her husband, Paul, bought the Mount Dora Topic newspaper.
-
08
Feb
Parramore’s Landmark Churches
Read more about Parramore’s Landmark ChurchesIn Orlando’s Parramore neighborhood, African Americans worshipped outdoors in brush arbors and stables while they saved funds to build proper churches, which served not only as places of worship but also as social centers, gathering places, and schools.
-
02
Feb
The Wells’Built: Rich Echoes of the Past on South Street
Read more about The Wells’Built: Rich Echoes of the Past on South StreetNow, the hotel on South Street near Division Avenue – originally called the Wellsbilt – is home to the Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture.
-
29
Jan
Becoming Florida: Discovering the People of Our State’s Past
Read more about Becoming Florida: Discovering the People of Our State’s PastThe year 2021 marks 200 years since Florida’s American era began. Join us as we explore the histories of the people who inhabited Florida before it became a United States territory.
-
13
Jan
Windover: Prehistoric Past Revealed at Ancient Pond Cemetery
Read more about Windover: Prehistoric Past Revealed at Ancient Pond CemeteryExplore the discovery and excavation of one of the most important archaeological sites in North America: the 7,000-year-old pond cemetery known as Windover.