Preservation is a way of life here in the Bradenton Area. While our efforts to maintain the land and protect local wildlife often come to mind first, just as important is the work being done to keep our rich heritage alive. The Manatee Village Historical Park was established back in 1976 after a group of women were saddened to hear their congregation’s historic church, along with another decades-old building, was about to be demolished. The women spearheaded efforts to not only find a new home for these impressive structures and stories, but also organize the Manatee County Historical Commission, Inc., ensuring the county’s pioneer history could be preserved and shared with future generations.

When asked why this is important, Curator Matt Woodside didn’t hesitate. He explained, “knowing where we come from helps us understand who we are.” Today, the park does this through seven buildings, which have been brought here from all over Manatee County, and other points of interest that together provide a holistic look at Florida frontier life, from family residence to final resting place.

There’s the Stephens House, a typical Cracker Gothic-style pioneer home; this would have been a family’s primary place. At the center of the park sits the rescued church that started it all and would have been the next most important place in one’s life. Other buildings on-site include the 1860 Courthouse for recording and settling legal matters, the one-room schoolhouse, the Potter Barn (with chickens!), a replica blacksmith’s shop, former boat-building workshop/business, 1850s burial ground, and more.

“We think of museums as having really tiny artifacts. These are just really big artifacts,” jokes Woodside. All the buildings have also been furnished to provide a true sense of the time period. Plaques around the park further explain the significance of structures or share interesting backstories.

Best of all, admission to the park is free (donations welcome) and tours are self-guided, so guests can peruse at their own pace. The Wiggins General Store at the park’s entrance is the perfect starting point, where you can pick up a map and even one of the specially created kids activity guides.

Speaking of kids (locomotive lovers of all ages, too) – Manatee Village Historical Park is also home to Old Cabbage Head, the 1913 steam engine named after its rounded smokestack. Be sure to snap a pic by this well-known artifact while you’re here! And don’t forget to visit Junior Junction to let any littles in your group blow off steam at the park’s train-themed playground. Bonus: It’s conveniently located under the shade of 100-year-old live oak trees that are covered in beautiful Spanish moss.

Manatee Village Historical Park is open 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday and every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. Get tips to plan your visit and learn about any upcoming Saturday lectures at manateevillage.org.