Heritage Village | St Petersburg

Heritage Village in Largo, Florida, is a living history museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Pinellas County. Located within the Pinewood Cultural Park, this 21-acre site features over 30 historic buildings that have been relocated from various locations around the county to preserve them for future generations. It is a wonderful place to learn about the region's past, explore Florida’s history, and enjoy hands-on experiences that bring the past to life.

Historic Buildings and Structures

Heritage Village showcases some of the most important and historic buildings from Pinellas County, each offering a window into the area’s development and cultural heritage. Some of the key buildings include:

McMullen-Coachman Log Cabin (1852)
This is the oldest structure in Pinellas County, originally built by pioneers in the area. The cabin represents the early settler’s lifestyle and provides visitors with insight into pioneer life. The McMullen-Coachman Log Cabin is an iconic symbol of early Florida homesteading.

Safety Harbor Church (1905)
The church, which originally served the Methodist congregation in Safety Harbor, was relocated to the village. It serves as a significant example of the religious life of the area in the early 20th century. The church is also used for various events and community activities.

Turner Bungalow (1915)
Donated by the Turner family, this house represents the vernacular architecture of early Florida homes. The building not only reflects the architectural style but also highlights the contributions of the Turner family to the community’s development.

Sponge Warehouse (1930)
This structure tells the story of the Greek immigrants who settled in the Tarpon Springs area, which became known as the sponge capital of the world. The warehouse showcases the significant role that the Greek community played in the local economy and history.

H.C. Smith General Store (1915)
A restored general store that allows visitors to experience what shopping was like in the early 20th century. The store features original merchandise and a hand-crank cash register, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.

In addition to these structures, the village includes a variety of other buildings such as a railroad depot, a schoolhouse, a chapel, and more, all carefully preserved and interpreted to provide an immersive historical experience.

Hands-on Activities and Demonstrations

Heritage Village offers a variety of activities that allow visitors to interact with the history they are experiencing. Some of the most popular include:

Craft Demonstrations
From September to May, the village hosts traditional craft demonstrations, where visitors can watch skilled artisans spin wool, weave fabric, hook rugs, and quilt. These demonstrations offer a deeper understanding of the crafts that were once part of everyday life in early Florida.

Historic House Concert Series
On the first Saturday of each month, the McMullen-Coachman Log Cabin hosts local musicians who perform in the historic setting. These concerts celebrate the area’s musical heritage and offer visitors a chance to enjoy live music in a charming, intimate setting.

Storytelling Workshops and Cultural Festivals
Throughout the year, Heritage Village organizes storytelling workshops and cultural festivals that explore the history and traditions of the region. These events provide an enriching way to learn about the past, from folklore to the history of the people who lived in the area.

Special Events and Programs

Heritage Village hosts several special events that help bring history to life. Some annual events include:

Living History Days: A weekend event that focuses on life in the past, with demonstrations, crafts, period costumes, and reenactments.

Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration: Heritage Village transforms into a holiday wonderland, where visitors can enjoy traditional holiday decorations and festivities, including caroling and crafts.

Historical Reenactments: Various reenactments are organized throughout the year, providing visitors with an engaging way to experience history. These may involve actors portraying early settlers, military personnel, or other historical figures.

Visitor Information

Heritage Village is a wonderful place for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in Florida’s rich heritage. It is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM and Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM, with free admission. Donations are encouraged to help support the ongoing preservation and educational programs at the museum.

Location: 11909 125th Street North, Largo, FL 33774

Contact: (727) 582-2123

Website: Heritage Village is part of the Pinellas County Parks system, and you can find additional information on their official website.

Nearby Attractions

Heritage Village is located next to the Florida Botanical Gardens, a 150-acre site that features themed gardens, including native plants, rose gardens, and tropical plants. The botanical gardens offer a serene setting for walking, photography, or simply relaxing in nature. Like Heritage Village, the gardens are also free to visit, making this a perfect combination for a day of outdoor activities and cultural exploration.

Conclusion

Heritage Village offers an enriching and immersive experience into the history of Pinellas County and Florida’s early days. Whether you’re exploring historic buildings, attending craft demonstrations, or participating in community events, there’s something for everyone at this historical gem. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the past and appreciate the cultural heritage that shaped the region.