Pioneer Heritage Day is returning to the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center for its 39th annual year.
Year-round, the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center serves as a testament to history in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.
Saturday, Nov. 12, the center will feature added historical exhibits for the 39th Annual Pioneer Heritage Day.
The event, sponsored by the East Hillsborough Historical Society, showcases history from the early days of Plant City. This year’s exhibits include an archive of history from Turkey Creek High School, memorabilia from the H.B. Plant Railroad Train Club and photos and artifacts from Plant City’s past.
Pioneer Heritage Day’s history dates to the early 1900s. The celebration started as a meeting at the turn of the century between Plant City settlers and those from nearby areas.
As time has gone on, the event has continued to grow. This year, the East Hillsborough Art Guild and the Plant City Garden Club have teamed up with the East Hillsborough Historical Society for the November event. EHAG will showcase its Art Around Town Show inside the building. The Garden Club will have a flower show.
“It’s the first time it’s a combined effort,” Shelby Bender, president of the East Hillsborough Historical Society, said.
The Garden Club will set up in one half of the banquet room on the historic high school’s first floor. The Turkey Creek Alumni Association will set up its exhibit in the second half of the room. The rest of the school will feature various exhibits, including class museums and a genealogy library.
Besides the history, attendees will can enjoy performances by Next Radical Generation, Jonathan Davis, Tampa Teen Idol winner Kenzie Wheeler and four clogging groups.
“It’s local,” Bender said. “It’s a good opportunity for the kids to showcase.”
There will be activities for kids. The Plant City Arts Council will sponsor face painting and attendees can enjoy hayrides and bounce houses.
The Florida Opry will take the stage at 6 p.m. inside of the 1914 building. Performances will include bluegrass band Swinging Bridge.
Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.
