For Immediate Release
May 2, 2007

Contact: Wanda Richey
Museum of Florida History
(850) 245.6400
wrichey@dos.state.fl.us

The Museum of Florida History Celebrates 30th Birthday

Tallahassee, FLORIDA –  

Secretary of State Kurt S. Browning is pleased to announce a year-long celebration of the 30th birthday of the Museum of Florida History with a kickoff event during the Third Thursday program on May 17, 2007. During the birthday celebration year, Museum staff will focus on promoting and encouraging knowledge and appreciation of Florida's history through unique exhibits, collections and programs. In addition, Museum staff will work to expand its identity as The State History Museum, and to increase donations, visitation, sponsors, and memberships. The May 17 kickoff will be a birthday party from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with entertainment, cake, and a presentation highlighting significant programs at the Museum over the past 30 years. The event is free.

"Since opening its doors to the public in May 1977 here at the R. A. Gray Building, the Museum has been a place where the public can learn about Florida history," said Secretary Browning. "The Museum is truly one of Florida's greatest gems and holds many unique treasures and artifacts chronicling our rich heritage that continues to both educate and entertain schoolchildren and adults alike."

In 1967, The Florida Legislature mandated that a state history museum be created. In May 1977, the Museum opened its doors in the R. A. Gray Building, and between 1980 and 1998, the Museum nearly doubled the size of its collections by acquiring much of the historical materials from the Florida Museum of Natural History. In 1997, the Museum of Florida History acquired oversight of the historical Knott House Museum. Today, the Museum operates two sites, the Museum in the R. A. Gray Building at 500 South Bronough Street and the Knott House Museum at the corner of Park Avenue and Calhoun Street. Both sites are located in downtown Tallahassee.

The Museum is open year round except Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day. Museum hours are Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Saturday 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday and holidays 12:00 noon-4:30 p.m. The Museum has extended hours the third Thursday of each month from 5:00-8:00 p.m. for special programs and tours. Florida's History Shop is open during regular Museum hours and the third Thursday of each month until 8:00 p.m. For more information, contact 850.245.6400 or visit the Museum online at http://www.museumoffloridahistory.com/30th/.