Categories: ArtCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Orlando Marks 150 Years with New Historical Exhibit

Display of historical artifacts at Orlando's 150th anniversary exhibit.

News Summary

Orlando is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a special exhibit titled ‘Orlando Collected’ at the Orange County Regional History Center. The showcase features 150 artifacts that highlight the city’s vibrant history, including items from sports and culinary icons. The exhibit is open to the public starting Saturday and invites residents and visitors to explore Orlando’s unique story through various themes. A preview night will occur on Friday for an exclusive look at the treasures on display.

Orlando Celebrates 150 Years with a Blast from the Past!

Orlando is turning 150 years old this year, and to celebrate this major milestone, the Orange County Regional History Center is rolling out an exciting new exhibit titled “Orlando Collected.” This engaging showcase brings together a diverse collection of 150 artifacts that tell the vibrant history of our beloved city, highlighting the people, places, and events that have shaped Orlando over the years.

A Glimpse into the Exhibit’s Treasures

The heart of the exhibit lies in its carefully curated items. Most of the display comes straight from the museum’s vault, where some pieces have never seen the light of day before! Among the intriguing artifacts, visitors can check out seats from Tinker Field, a nostalgic reminder of Orlando’s sports history, as well as the iconic sign from Ivey’s Drug Store. For foodies, there are even chopsticks from Little Saigon restaurant, encapsulating the rich culinary diversity of Orlando.

Another fascinating piece is a deed for land at Greenwood Cemetery, which ties back to the city’s local heritage. The items on display also include contributions from community curators and generous loans from local collectors, ensuring a wide-reaching representation of Orlando’s story.

The Exhibit Timeline and Themes

The much-anticipated exhibit officially opens to the public on Saturday and will be available for viewing until January 11. Visitors can look forward to exploring items grouped not by date but by various categories such as arts, sports, attractions, and business. This thematic organization allows for a more dynamic and relatable storytelling experience, making it fun for everyone to engage with Orlando’s history!

What to Expect Inside

Step into the intriguing world of Orlando’s past as you encounter notable figures from the city, including an astronaut who made history and a Nobel Prize winner who contributed to science. The education section of the exhibit showcases these impactful people, appreciating their roles in shaping the community we cherish today.

Sports enthusiasts will be delighted to see a golf bag owned by the legendary Arnold Palmer on display, along with an Orlando Pride soccer jersey and a ticket stub from the first-ever Orlando Magic game. And let’s not forget about the 1926 sheet music about Orlando, recorded by Opera Orlando, that captures the cultural spirit of the time.

Crime, Mystery, and History

For those who love a little intrigue, the exhibit takes a darker turn when it connects to a historical murder case from 1921 involving a postmistress named Lena Clarke. Featured pieces connected to this case include a Smith & Wesson revolver and a Colt pistol, adding an element of tension to the storytelling. Visitors can also see Clarke’s purse and the court ledger from her trial, giving a raw glimpse into the justice system of the time.

Sneak Peek and Ticket Information

Before the official opening, a special preview night is organized for Friday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., where visitors can get an exclusive look at the exhibit. Tickets for the preview night are available for just $10 on the history center’s website. It’s a perfect way to kick off the weekend and step back in time as Orlando celebrates its 150th birthday in style.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer to the City Beautiful, “Orlando Collected” promises to be a memorable experience filled with nostalgia, stories, and incredible artifacts that encapsulate the essence of our beloved city.