Cracker Country, Tampa Bay Area Travel Guide

Cracker Country, located on the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, is a living history museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Florida's rural heritage from 1870 to 1912. Founded in 1978 by Doyle Carlton, Jr. and his wife, Mildred Woodbery Carlton, the museum spans four acres and features thirteen original buildings relocated from across the state. These buildings, carefully restored and furnished with authentic antiques, offer visitors a unique glimpse into the daily lives of Florida's early settlers. As you wander through Cracker Country, you'll encounter a variety of structures that represent different aspects of life in a late 19th-century rural Florida community. Public buildings include the Terry Store, originally built in the 1800s and serving as a general store in Fort White, Florida, until 1988, and the Okahumpka Train Depot, representing the importance of railroads in connecting rural communities. The one-room schoolhouse provides a glimpse into the education of the time, while the church, originally built for African-American children, showcases the community's spiritual life. Private buildings, such as the Carlton and Smith homes, offer insights into domestic life and family traditions. Costumed interpreters bring Cracker Country to life, portraying the roles of Florida pioneers and demonstrating traditional crafts and skills. You might see a blacksmith at work in the Blacksmith Shop, a seamstress sewing in one of the homes, or a cook preparing a meal over an open fire. These interactive demonstrations provide a hands-on learning experience, allowing visitors to engage with history in a meaningful way. Cracker Country is not open daily to the general public, but it hosts a variety of special events and educational programs throughout the year. During the annual Florida State Fair in February, the museum opens its gates to fairgoers, offering a glimpse into rural Florida life. Other events include Christmas in the Country, Homeschool Days, and Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day, each offering unique activities and experiences. Educational field trips are also available for school groups, providing curriculum-based learning opportunities for students of all ages. Visiting Cracker Country is like stepping back in time, offering a chance to appreciate the challenges and triumphs of Florida's early settlers. It's a place where you can learn about traditional crafts, explore historic buildings, and experience the spirit of a bygone era. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a family looking for an educational outing, or simply curious about Florida's past, Cracker Country offers a memorable and enriching experience. Cracker Country's buildings and features include: * **General Store:** Located in the Rainey Building, the General Store sells merchandise referencing items popular in 1890s Florida, including stick candy, period toys, and home décor. * **Terry Store:** Originally the J.R. Terry Store, it was built in the 1800s and served as a general store in Fort White, Florida, until 1988. * **Smith House:** A representation of domestic life in rural Florida. * **Carlton House:** Another example of a family home from the late 19th century. * **Schoolhouse:** Originally built in 1912 in Castalia, Florida, the schoolhouse offers a glimpse into education during that time. * **Church:** Originally a schoolhouse for African-American children, it was converted into a church and later donated to Cracker Country. * **Okahumpka Train Depot:** Highlights the importance of railroads in connecting rural communities. Cracker Country provides a unique and valuable educational experience, preserving and sharing the history of rural Florida for future generations. It's a testament to the vision of its founders and the dedication of its staff and volunteers who work to bring history to life.