The
Pioneer Florida Museum & Village is an authentic reconstruction of an old
Florida village on 16 acres of land north of
Dade City. A variety of historic
buildings dating from the mid 1800's to early 1900's, along with farm tools and
equipment, and many other artifacts, are on display. This is a hands-on immersive
experience that demonstrates what life was like when Florida was first settled.
The museum was founded in 1961 by a non-profit group of volunteers based on a
large collection of old farm equipment donated by a prominent
San Antonio
resident. Historic buildings from nearby locations in central Florida have been
moved to the site and restored, complete with period furnishings. Buildings
include; the John Overstreet House, a two story farm house from the mid 1860's;
the Trilby Depot, a train depot dating from 1896; the Old Locoochee School, an
original school building from the 1930's; the Enterprise Church, built in 1878,
and many other structures that house museum equipment and artifacts.
A large number of farm tractors and implements is on display at the museum.
Displays show how early Floridians built their homes, plowed their fields,
harvested crops, made furniture, did leatherworking and blacksmithing. Equipment
for other domestic chores, like butter churning, cooking, spinning, weaving, and
washing are also on display.
A 1913 Porter Steam locomotive is located near the Trilby Depot. It was used for
50 years to haul logs from Trilby to Lacoochee, and was operated by the Cummer
Cypress Company.
There is also a cane syrup mill located on the grounds that demonstrates how
sugar cane was ground, pressed and cooked to yield cane syrup. The museum
periodically has special events when the mule-drawn mill is in operation making
syrup that can be tasted and purchased by visitors. The occasion is usually
accompanied by a syrup making contest, tractor pulls, arts and craft vendors,
and live music.
Activities & Facilities
Museum or Visitor Center
Arts/crafts vendors
Short hiking trails