Plantation Historical Museum
Plantations were first established by settlers who wanted to profit from Florida’s natural resources such as lumbering and fishing. They used enslaved labor to clear land and grow crops on plantations that yielded cotton, indigo fabric dye, sugar cane & more! The early development of these settlements was not without its challenges: diseases like malaria plagued residents; Native Americans attacked them during territorial disputes; they had limited supplies because ships could not get to Plantation during the war. Plantations were finally established in 1821 and they served as a refuge for former North Floridians after Florida became a state in 1845. Plantations Historical Museum takes visitors on an exploration of Plantation’s past from its establishment by settlers through today. Visitors will learn how Plantation developed, about Native American attacks, disease outbreaks like malaria, limited supplies because ships could not reach Plantation due to blockades during the Civil War–all while being immersed among artifacts that tell these stories!
Plantation Historical Museum, 511 N. Fig Tree Lane, reopened after closing for a couple of months for renovations. During the months it was closed, the museum has acquired a series of new items for its permanent collection and has a new gift shop offering articles for children and for adults that relate to the current exhibit. The museum is open Tuesdays through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., closing from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch. Admission and guided tours are free. Group tours must be booked in advance.
