Polk County History Center

16th Annual Festival of Wreaths

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Click Here for the History Center Contact Information

Myrtice Young
Historic Preservation Manager

Phone: (863) 534-4386
Toll Free: (800) 780-5346

Email: MyrticeYoung@polkfl.gov

General inquiries can be made by emailing HistoryCenter@polkfl.gov.

Address:
100 E. Main St.
Bartow, FL 33830

Office Hours of Operation:
Tuesday through Saturday:
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mission Statement: To educate and inspire through the procurement, preservation and interpretation of historical objects and data illustrative of, and relating to, Polk County.

The Polk County History Center is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

Front view of the Polk County History Center, a historic courthouse with white columns, a domed roof, and a grand entrance.

What was once the Polk County Courthouse now serves as the Polk County History Center, home of the historical museum and library.

The museum serves Polk’s community through educational programs, special events and volunteer opportunities. The museum’s exhibits and programs continue to grow and there is always something new to discover.

The museum collection includes natural and cultural objects related to Polk and the greater Central Florida area that represent our history from pre-Columbian to present day eras. The artifacts on display at the museum represent individuals, cultural groups and events significant to the region.

Ongoing exhibitions feature artifacts on display that include:

Miocene Fossils
Paleo Era dugout canoe
Pioneer clothing and tools
Vintage farm and mining equipment
Artisan fishing lures
Military relics

Arts in Motion

Celebrate Arts and Health Week by Getting Active

Celebrate the connection between creativity and well-being during Arts and Health Week, Nov. 8-14. The Polk County History Center will present Arts in Motion, a series of three free adult fitness classes that invite participants to explore how movement and the arts support wellness while connecting with others.

Led by the Watson Clinic Foundation’s Arts in Medicine Program and the Polk Arts and Health Collaborative, the week brings together health care professionals, artists and residents through interactive events, performances and educational programs that highlight how the arts support physical, emotional and social health.

Before each class, explore the museum’s exhibits, including refreshed displays in the Arts and Culture Gallery.

Participants must be 18 years old or older. Registration is required for each class. Space is limited.

Explore the classes below and reserve your spot.

Jazzercise Class – 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10

Denise Bohde, owner and instructor at Jazzercise Bartow, will lead a 30-minute introductory session exploring how movement and the arts support overall wellness. Wear comfortable clothing you can move in and athletic shoes. Bring a small towel and water.

Chair Yoga Class – 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12

Certified yoga instructor Tina Peak will lead a gentle session focused on stretching, breathing and mindful movement. All experience levels are welcome. Chairs will be provided. Wear comfortable clothing or athletic wear. You may participate in comfortable shoes, socks or barefoot.

Ballet Class – 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13

Swan City Ballet will lead a one-hour introduction to ballet’s foundational movements, connecting creativity and physical well-being. Wear comfortable clothing and ballet slippers or socks. Leotards and tights are welcome but not required.

16th Annual Festival of Wreaths

The Annual Festival of Wreaths returns to the Polk County History Center with beautifully crafted wreaths, live Christmas music and opportunities to make holiday memories with your family. Click below for a full list of events and dates.

Festival Event Page

Exhibits

Exhibits and Galleries

The Polk County History Center features exhibits that highlight the people, industries and communities that shaped Polk County’s history. From early settlement and pioneer life to local arts, government leadership and military history, each gallery offers a closer look at the county’s heritage. Visitors can explore hands‑on spaces, historic courtrooms and rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

Learn more

Tours

Guided and Self‑Guided Experiences

The Polk County History Center offers guided and self‑guided experiences that bring local history to life. From architectural highlights to historic cemeteries and countywide heritage sites, each tour invites you to explore the people, places and stories that shaped Polk County.

Learn more

Subscribe to the Polk County History Center Newsletter

Stay up to date with monthly programs and events by subscribing to the history center newsletter. Other newsletters also include Polk County’s general monthly newsletter, The Back Porch. If you enjoy the outdoors, you can explore Polk’s natural spaces by subscribing to the Polk County Parks and Recreation monthly newsletter.

Subscribe Here

The Polk County History Center is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. American Alliance of Museum Accredited museum seal

Polk County History Center

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See Related Pages

Click Here for the History Center Contact Information

Arts in Motion

Celebrate Arts and Health Week by Getting Active

16th Annual Festival of Wreaths

Exhibits

Tours

Newsletter