Step back into time at the Manatee Village Historical Park. Visit this collection of restored buildings from Manatee County’s settlement history and experience life in Manatee County before the arrival of modern conveniences such as automobiles and electricity. The Manatee Village Historical Park is a joint project of the Manatee County Historical Commission, Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Court, the Manatee County Board of County Commission, and the City of Bradenton.
The Park includes an 1860 courthouse, 1887 church, 1912 settler's house, 1903 general store, a 1908 one-room schoolhouse and a 1913 steam engine called "Old Cabbage Head". Other highlights include a replica of a typical Florida barn as well as a boat exhibit, restored smokehouse, turpentine still, working blacksmith shop and a cow hunter’s bunkhouse. Visitors can also tour the 1850 Old Manatee Burying Grounds by appointment.
Manatee County Historical Commission produces several large special events at the Park during the year, including a dramatic cemetery tour in the 1850 Old Manatee Burying Grounds each fall. Park facilities offer the public a rental venue for weddings, baptisms, reunions, memorial services and other special occasions. For information on scheduling group tours for students or adults, please contact Park staff.
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