About the Historical Society of Sarasota County
Pioneer Park and Sarasota's Oldest House
Organized historical collecting in Sarasota dates back to 1927, when a citizens group began gathering historical materials about the area. A county historian office followed in the early 1950s, the Sarasota County Historical Society evolved from those efforts in 1959, and the organization was reorganized as a not-for-profit corporation in 1977. Today the Historical Society of Sarasota County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to foster public awareness of the rich historical heritage of Sarasota County and the state of Florida, encourage inquiry and research into that history, promote the collection and preservation of memorabilia, and help protect the area's historic sites and structures.
The society makes its home in Pioneer Park at 1260 12th Street, where it preserves and operates two of the city's most significant historic buildings. The Bidwell-Wood House, built in 1882, is the oldest residence in the City of Sarasota and serves as the society's headquarters. Beside it stands the Crocker Memorial Church, an early twentieth-century sanctuary that now hosts society programs and community gatherings. Together the two buildings form a small campus of living local history in the heart of Sarasota.
The society keeps members and the public engaged through an email newsletter, published articles and a blog on local history, and special events such as its Historic Sarasota Bay Cruises. Both historic buildings in Pioneer Park can also be rented for weddings and celebrations, with proceeds supporting the society's preservation work.
Plan Your Visit
The Historical Society of Sarasota County is located in Pioneer Park at 1260 12th Street in Sarasota. The office is generally open weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or by appointment. For current events, programs, and rental information, visit hsosc.com.
← Back to Florida Societies