September 2025

Hispanic Heritage Month

Sept. 15 to Oct. 15

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the museum will feature a video gallery exhibit highlighting stories from members of the Hispanic community. The collection includes filmed stories with Polk County Commissioner Martha Santiago and Congressman Darren Soto, offering personal reflections on heritage, identity and community.

Want to do something fun in the community? Consider the 18th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival on Sept. 20.

Scene at the Signing of the Constitution 1940

Constitution Day

Sept. 17

Constitution Day marks the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787, in Philadelphia. Originally established as Citizenship Day on March 27, 1941, it recognized the contributions of all U.S. citizens—especially new ones. The efforts of Mrs. A.B. (Clara) Vajda, a Hungarian immigrant who championed civic education, played a key role in its creation.

In 2004, the observance was officially renamed Constitution Day to honor both the U.S. Constitution and the citizens it represents.

Explore more by visiting our online exhibit, One Nation, Many Stories: Polk County, to discover how the U.S. Constitution shaped the settlement of Florida and played a role in the founding of Polk County.

historical commissioner Jinx Wilson Chaney and Commissioner Braswell

Jinx Wilson Chaney Recognition

Outgoing Historical Commissioner Jinx Wilson Chaney was recognized by Polk County Commissioner Bill Braswell for her years of dedicated service during the Aug. 7 Historical Commission meeting.

A native of Polk County, Chaney was appointed as the District 1 representative in 2019 and reappointed in 2022. During her six-year tenure, she served three terms as chair, supporting the History Center’s banking exhibit, promoting the Citrus Crate Label Tour and actively participating in historical marker ceremonies and events.

A plaque was presented in appreciation of her leadership and commitment to preserving Polk County’s history.

Upcoming Events & Programs

Polk Place - History Center September 2025 Update with Jayme Jamison

Curator of Education and Visitor Engagement Jayme Jamison joins host Bryan Lacey on Polk Place to discuss the events and programs happening in September at the History Center.

Architectural Tour

11 a.m. | Sept. 20

Join Bartholomew Delcamp, Curator of Collections, as he portrays historic courthouse architect E.C. Hosford on an architectural tour of the History Center. Discover the neoclassical architectural elements that Hosford incorporated in the design that define this iconic Polk County landmark. The tour begins at 11 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month.

This month will focus on the fireproof windows installed during the 1926 expansion.

Genealogy Speaker Series

10 a.m. | Sept. 27

Enriching Your Family History Through Pictures and Stories

Presented by Amie Bowser Tennant

Family photos and stories serve as powerful gateways to the past. Join genealogy researcher Amie Bowser Tennant, an internationally recognized genealogy blogger and speaker, for a virtual discussion at 10 a.m. on Sept. 27.

Discover how to uncover details about your ancestors using both familiar and lesser-known research tools and websites. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just beginning your journey, this series will provide the insight and inspiration to enrich your personal history.

This is a virtual program. The presenter will appear virtually. Guests are invited to participate via Zoom. For Zoom details, please contact Shannon Graham, Research and Genealogy Historian, by calling (863) 534-4386 or e-mail ShannonGraham@polk-county.net.

Stay up to date on meetings and events happening within Polk County.

Polk County Events Calendar

Polk County Meetings Calendar

Festival of Wreaths

Calling Creators, Crafters and Holiday Enthusiasts

The Polk County History Center staff invite you to be part of the 15th Annual Festival of Wreaths. This beloved tradition brings together individuals, organizations and businesses to decorate festive 24-inch evergreen wreaths which will be displayed throughout the History Center from Nov. 14 to Dec. 11.

Wreaths will be available at the History Center for pickup beginning Sept. 20 during regular operating hours. Decorated wreaths are due back by Oct. 25.

All wreaths will be sold via a silent auction. Proceeds will support the Polk County History Center. Wreaths with exceptional decorating themes will be recognized, making this a fun and festive opportunity to show off your creativity.

To reserve your wreath or learn more, Lois Sherrouse-Murphy at loissherrouse-murphy@polk-county.net or call (863) 534-4386.

Save the Dates

Cemetery Tours Resume Oct. 4

Join the Polk County History Center for the return of its Historic Cemetery Tours, beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4.

These monthly tours are held on the first Saturday of each month and offer a meaningful look into the lives and legacies of Polk County’s early pioneers.

Santa’s Coming to Town

Straight from the North Pole, we've received official word that Santa Claus is making his way back to his study at the History Center this winter for one-on-one visits.

Advanced registration will be required. Specific dates and times will be announced in next month’s newsletter.

Polk County Historical and Genealogical Library

Stop by the History Center to use the vast historical resources of the library to discover your family history. Learn about the towns and the families that made this area flourish through a selection of materials related to the history of Polk County and the entire southeast United States. Polk County resources include newspapers, aerial photographs, city directories, property tax rolls, cemetery records and more. Visitors also have free access to Ancestry.com.

Our dedicated library staff are available to help you. To start your request, contact Research Historian Shannon Graham by phone at (863) 534-4604 or e-mail ShannonGraham@polk-county.net.

The History Center’s extensive artifact and photograph collection are available on our website. Visit www.polkhistorycenter.org, select “Historical Museum Collection” and use the keyword search feature.

Digital Collections Online

The Polk County History Center's collection features a variety of materials – documents, photographs, maps, audio/visual media and three-dimensional items. These items are accessible to the public digitally through our inventory database and through specially curated digital albums via CONTENTdm.

To access the digital albums, click here.
Access the extensive artifact and photograph collection inventory by visiting www.polkhistorycenter.org and selecting “Historical Museum Collection.” You can use the keyword search feature.

Each week a different vintage photograph from the History Center's archives is featured on our social media pages. Check it out and see if you recognize any places or faces.

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