Recognizing the value in creating a stronger connection with our local organizations, the PCHA Board established the Polk County Heritage Partner Committee, which is comprised history/heritage organizations throughout the county. Heritage Partners meet on a regular basis to pursue opportunities for cross promotion, share best practices, and generate ideas.
Enjoy the rich history and heritage of Polk County through the resources and exhibits of our Heritage Partners:
African American Chamber of Commerce of Polk County – The Mission of the African American Chamber of Commerce is to promote economic development, education enrichment, and social connections for the Polk County African-American business communities.
The African American Heritage Museum – Learn about the rich and diverse experiences of being a person of African American descent in Central Florida, and how our black ancestors’ lives helped shape the history of our great state. The Museum seeks to educate people of all races to value the countless contributions of Black Americans to the United States.
Bok Tower Gardens – Bok Tower Gardens has offered some of Florida’s most remarkable experiences to more than 23 million visitors since 1929. Through its historic landscape gardens, unique Singing Tower carillon, magnificent 1930s Mediterranean-style mansion, and 3-acres of nature inspired play Children’s Garden, the Gardens offer unparalleled opportunities for artistic, cultural, personal and spiritual enrichment.
Davenport Historical Society – The Davenport Historical Society, Inc. originated from the original Historic Registry committee appointed by the Davenport City Commission in 1996. Davenport’s Historic District was placed on the National Historic Registry in 1997. The historic society became a 501 C 3 non-profit July 2014. In 2022 DHS was located to its present location at 5 South Allapaha Avenue, Davenport, FL 33837. Its hours of operation are: Wed.10:00am to 4:00pm, Thurs. & Fri. 10am to 3pm and Sat. 10am to 2pm.
East Hillsborough Historical Society – Located in the historic 1914 Plant City High School building, a National Register of Historic Places site, the Society includes: the Quintilla Geer Bruton Archives Center, a genealogy, family and history library with an extensive collection of materials and photographs relating to local and regional history; museums exhibiting early Plant City history; an art gallery; event venues for rental and model train layouts.
Florida Air Museum – As Florida’s “Official Aviation Museum and Education Center,” the Florida Air Museum features a dynamic display of unique designs, classics, ultra-lights, antiques, and warbirds. More than a collection of airplanes; it stands as a tribute to the history and joy of flight. Exhibits educate about pioneers like Howard Hughes, early air racers, and Floridians and others who have influenced the world of aviation.
Florida Citrus Hall of Fame – The partnership between the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame and Florida Southern College is a unique opportunity that will enable people from throughout the world to learn about the men and women who have made the Florida citrus industry what it is today.
Frostproof Historical Museum – Home to thousands of photos, artifacts and documents, the Museum also has a staff ready to help with your family genealogy. You can also plan a guided walking tour of the Frostproof Heritage Trail!
Ft. Meade Historical Museum – The mission of the Ft. Meade Historical Museum is to preserve history through dignity and the future with honor. The museum features exhibits, events, and even a Train Museum Dining Car!
Haines City Historical Museum – Welcome to the Haines City Historical Museum’s Facebook page! Visit often for updates on meetings, events, and how you can get involved in preserving our history.
Historic Lakeland, Inc. – Historic Lakeland, Inc. is a not-for-profit, nonaffiliated organization dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of Lakeland, Florida’s unique history and character, and using the heritage to shape the community’s growth and development.
Kathleen Area Historical Society – The mission of the Kathleen Area Historical Society is to document, preserve, and interpret the history and folk life of area communities – primarily through activities at Heritage Park located within the historic Socrum community.
Lake Alfred Historical Society – Since 1994, the Historical Society has been protecting Lake Alfred’s history and heritage for present and future generations. The Lake Alfred Historical Museum houses exhibits and a research room. You’ll also want to visit the town’s numerous historic sites and historical markers.
Lake Wales History Museum – A living legacy, the Lake Wales History Museum unites our community through the powerful history that shaped Lake Wales, Florida. The Museum preserves and shares our community’s proud heritage, inspiring deeper connections to the city and encouraging our ability to contribute to its story.
Mulberry Phosphate Museum – The Mulberry Phosphate Museum is one of the Florida attractions that should be on everyone’s “Must See” list. As you walk through our museum, you will experience the Earth’s past, viewing the remains of various types of marine life as well as reptiles and mammals dating back millions of years. Your visit will be an introduction to the relationship of animal remains with the modern Phosphate Industry.
Polk County History Center – What was once the Polk County Courthouse now serves as the History Center and houses the historical museum and library. The museum serves Polk’s community through special events, volunteer opportunities, and educational programs.
Museum of Winter Haven History – The Museum of Winter Haven History is located in the Woman’s Club on beautiful Lake Howard. The museum features memorabilia, photos, films and objects directly related to the history of Winter Haven, Florida.
If you represent a Polk County museum, historical society, or other history/heritage organization, and would like to join the Heritage Partner Committee, please contact us.