What do commercial fishing, tourism, cattle ranching and citrus farming have in common? They are all pioneering Florida industries that were shaped by the natural resources of the Sunshine State. Students will take part in activities like sorting oranges, packing for a cattle drive, casting a fish net and more that highlight some of the earliest economic drivers in the developing state of Florida. Educators in historic dress will welcome guests to the 1885 Carlton House, the Okahumpka Railroad Depot, Terry General Store, School House and more structures authentic to Florida around the turn of the 20th century.
Date & Time: May 9, 2024 from 10am-2pm
Activities:
Watch our blacksmith as he makes hand-forged wares
Sort oranges like pioneers in a packing house
Practice your lassoing skills
Try out turn-of-the-century toys
See our model train display
Explore our historic buildings
Dip a beeswax candle - $1 each
Watch our blacksmith as he makes hand-forged wares
And more!
Add-on: The Florida Tourism Industry in the Late 19th Century & Early 20th Century
Price: $2 add-on to Homeschool Day general admission ticket
Ages: The lecture is designed for students aged 12+
Time: 45-minute lecture at 11 am & 1 pm
Location: Governors Inn at Cracker Country
Today, Florida’s top industry is tourism and hospitality as more than 137 million visitors come to the Sunshine State each year. The basis of a thriving tourist trade can be directly traced to the late-nineteenth century and early twentieth century when Florida became a haven for well-to-do northerners seeking a respite from the cold of winter. Wealthy industrialists like Henry Flagler and Henry B. Plant not only constructed railroads but also seized the opportunity by building palatial resorts which attracted these northern elites. By the early twentieth century, the culture of tourism changed dramatically as the availability of automobiles, better-constructed roadways, and an expanding emphasis on leisure lured the middle-class to the Sunshine State.
Come to Cracker Country’s Homeschool Day on May 9 to hear college professor Gary G. DeSantis discuss this fascinating chapter in Florida history. Designed for teenaged homeschoolers (12 and above) and adults alike, this event is a must for those who want to better understand how tourism became the number one industry in the state.
Bring a Picnic Lunch: Picnic tables are available for a picnic lunch.
Shopping: There are lots of unique items to be found at the General Store! The store features nostalgic and reproduction items, historical toys and games, books, candy, and many other unique gift items. The General Store accepts cash and all major credit cards. Proceeds from sales in the General Store help support Cracker Country's education programs.
General Pricing: $11 per person 4 years old and up, children 3 years old and younger will be admitted for FREE. Advance ticket purchase required- this is a very popular event and there are limited tickets available. Tickets only available online. All ticket sales are final.
Parking: Free parking - enter Orient Rd only. Please follow the directions listed on our website and not GPS. Directions