Schedule a Program for your Classroom
Our trained educators will come to your classroom to present dynamic school programs. These engaging hands-on programs encourage your students to think critically, cooperate in a group setting, and to understand Florida's rich history.
These programs are available to all schools in Leon, Wakulla, Gadsden, Liberty, and Jefferson Counties. Programs last between 45 minutes and 1 hour.
20th of May— Emancipation in Florida
On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing enslaved people in the rebelling Southern states. More than two years later, Union General Edward McCook arrived in Tallahassee to take possession of the city from Southern forces. General McCook established his headquarters at the Hagner House, now known as the Knott House. On May 20, he declared the Emancipation Proclamation in effect. Former slaves celebrated this announcement with a picnic at Bull Pond, today's Lake Ella. Annually since 1865, communities in Tallahassee have celebrated May 20th as Emancipation Day.
The Knott House Museum and the John G. Riley Museum host an annual celebration of the 20th of May. Learn More
History at High Noon
Please join us on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, Noon–12:45 p.m. at Mission San Luis, 2100 W. Tennessee Street, Tallahassee
Managing Coastal Archaeological Sites in a Storm-Prone State
Speaker: Melissa Price, Archaeologist, Bureau of Archaeological Research, Florida Department of State
In this presentation, Ms. Price examines the challenges inherent in managing coastal archaeological sites in a storm-prone state, discusses the State’s ongoing research at Dog Island concerning past coastline changes, and highlights the importance of protecting archaeological sites and what the public can do to contribute to these efforts.
Free and open to the public. Free admission to Mission San Luis for attendees the day of program.
2nd Saturday Family Programs
March 11, 2023, 11:00 a.m.–Noon at Lake Jackson Branch Library, 3840-300 N. Monroe Street, Tallahassee
The Copper Pieces of Lake Jackson
Archaeologists have uncovered copper items at several prehistoric sites in Florida including the Lake Jackson site. Copper is not found naturally in Florida, and had to come from hundreds of miles away! Come learn of this material’s significance and how it made it all the way to Florida. Kids will create their own decorative pieces to take home.
To download a flyer for upcoming 2nd Saturday Programs click here.
Museum Hours
The Museum is temporarily closed as part of ongoing renovations at the R. A. Gray Building.
Contact Information
The Museum of Florida History
500 S. Bronough St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399
| Phone: | 850-245-6400 |
| Fax: | 850-245-6433 |
