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Click Here for the History Center Contact Information
Myrtice Young
Historic Preservation Manager
Phone: (863) 534-4386
Toll Free: (800) 780-5346
Email: MyrticeYoung@polk-county.net
Address:
100 E. Main St.
Bartow, FL 33830
Office Hours of Operation:
Tuesday through Saturday:
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What was once the Polk County Courthouse now serves as the Polk County History Center, home of the historical museum and library.
The museum serves Polk’s community through educational programs, special events and volunteer opportunities. The museum’s exhibits and programs continue to grow and there is always something new to discover.
The museum collection includes natural and cultural objects related to Polk and the greater Central Florida area that represent our history from pre-Columbian to present day eras. The artifacts on display at the museum represent individuals, cultural groups and events significant to the region.
Ongoing exhibitions feature artifacts on display that include:
- Miocene Fossils
- Paleo Era dugout canoe
- Pioneer clothing and tools
- Vintage farm and mining equipment
- Artisan fishing lures
- Military relics
The Polk County History Center is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.
Polk County History Center’s Mission Statement: To educate and inspire through the procurement, preservation and interpretation of historical objects and data illustrative of, and relating to, Polk County.
14th Annual Festival of Wreaths
Herald the arrival of the holiday season at the History Center with the 14th Annual Festival of Wreaths and Silent Auction. The Festival of Wreaths is an annual holiday tradition at the History Center featuring a variety of festive events. View the handcrafted wreaths decorating the History Center and even take part in a silent auction to take home your favorite. Enjoy caroling, special tours of the museum and reserve your chance get to take a photo with Santa in his study. The wreaths will be on display from Nov. 8 until Dec. 12, when winning bidders begin picking up wreaths to decorate their homes.
Check out all the fun events in store this season and find all the dates, times and reservation info.