West Pasco Historical Society, Tampa Bay Area Travel Guide

The West Pasco Historical Society Museum and Library offers a fascinating journey through the history of West Pasco County, Florida. Located in the heart of New Port Richey within the picturesque Sims Park, the museum provides a tangible link to the region's past, showcasing the stories, artifacts, and people that have shaped its unique identity. The museum's home is a historical artifact in itself. The building is the former Seven Springs schoolhouse, constructed in 1915. Serving as a school until 1925, it later became a private residence before being acquired by the West Pasco Historical Society in 1981. The building was then relocated to Sims Park and, following extensive renovations, opened as the museum in 1983. A library wing was added in 1992, and in 2011, the museum was renamed the Rao Musunuru, M.D., Museum and Library, honoring a generous local benefactor. Inside, visitors encounter a diverse collection of exhibits that bring the past to life. One prominent display focuses on the Native American history of the region, featuring artifacts from the Timucuan and Seminole people, including a collection of arrowheads discovered locally. These exhibits offer insights into the lives and cultures of the area's earliest inhabitants, dating back over 1,500 years. Another highlight is the exhibit dedicated to New Port Richey's founding families and early businesses. These displays showcase the retail establishments that once fueled the local economy, providing goods, services, and entertainment to residents. Recreations of historical businesses, such as the McKay Shoe Repair and the Zane Rankin Grocery Store, offer a glimpse into the daily lives of past generations. The museum also pays tribute to the area's famous residents, including silent film actor Thomas Meighan and music legend Johnny Cash. Visitors can learn about Meighan's connection to the Richey Suncoast Theatre and discover Cash's fondness for the laid-back atmosphere of New Port Richey, where he often fished from his dock. The "Hollywood of the East" exhibit explores the period when New Port Richey attracted celebrities and socialites, with the historic Hacienda Hotel playing a central role. Exhibits also delve into the lives of Pasco County pioneers, showcasing tools, family heirlooms, and household items from the late 1800s and early 1900s. These displays offer a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of those who settled the region, highlighting the communities of Arapica, Hudson, and 5A, home to one of the area's first lumber mills. The museum's library houses a collection of historical documents, photographs, and books related to West Pasco County. This resource is invaluable for researchers, genealogists, and anyone interested in delving deeper into the area's past. The library also preserves the collection of Jeff Miller, a local historian and digital archivist who amassed over 10,000 historic photos of Pasco County. Located within Sims Park, the museum offers visitors the opportunity to combine their historical exploration with other recreational activities. The park features a scenic river walk along the Cotee River, a kayak/canoe launch, a splash pad park for kids, a playground, picnic tables, and a concert bandshell for live entertainment. The West Pasco Historical Society, formed in 1973, continues to play an active role in preserving and promoting the area's history. The society hosts events, publishes historical materials, and provides educational programs for the community. The Rao Musunuru, M.D., Museum and Library is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant center for learning and discovery. Whether you are a history buff, a local resident, or a curious traveler, the museum offers a compelling and informative experience that will deepen your appreciation for the rich heritage of West Pasco County.