The Jacksonville History Center
our mission is To connect communities and strengthen citizenship through history education
At the History Center
Experience Jacksonville’s history up close at our evolving downtown campus. Whether you’re attending an event, exploring our historic buildings, or conducting research in the Archive of Jacksonville History, we welcome you to be part of the story—learning, discovering, and connecting with the people, places and events that shaped our city.
Upcoming Events
- Special Events
Join us and the Fort San Nicholas Daughters of the American Revolution for an interesting program on the city's informal moniker and unveiling of the site marker. The program begins at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, at Corkscrew Park on the Northbank Riverwalk. Enjoy music by the band and choir from Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, Keynote Speaker Mayor Donna Deegan, and more! No tickets or RSVP necessary!
- Speaker Series
On July 16, 2025, the City of Jacksonville submitted its application to become a U.S. Civil Rights Trail City. The designation will activate education, boost tourism, and reflect Jacksonville’s prominent role in shaping the national civil rights movement – the rich history that continues to shape our city today. Join us on Thursday, August 27, to hear the story behind the application, as told by Pat McCollough, Special Assistant to the Mayor, Civic Engagement and Youth Participation.
- Special Events
The annual Pumpkin Run, sponsored by Evergreen Cemetery, is the official Jacksonville Grand Prix 10-mile event benefiting the Jacksonville History Center and Evergreen Cemetery Association. Pumpkins line the course and are available to runners after the race is over. Halloween costume contest for Scariest Costume, Funniest Costume, and Best Overall Costume.
Explore & Learn
Dive into Jacksonville’s history through educational experiences for all ages. Whether you’re attending a Speaker Series program, joining a tour, contributing to our collection, or exploring the archive, there’s always something new to learn.
Preserving thousands of photographs, documents, and rare materials that tell the city’s story—a small but growing portion of which are digitized.
Offering educational experiences through our acclaimed speaker series, public programs, exhibitions, and community events.
Bringing the city’s past to life through guided tours of historic sites, including cemeteries and neighborhoods rich with local stories.
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Join & Support
Your support helps the Jacksonville History Center preserve and share the stories that define our city—from the people who built it to the events that shape its complex identity. Together, we’re safeguarding Jacksonville’s past to inspire a stronger, more connected future.
Visit Us
Located west of the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena; parking entrance from Monroe Street
Major support for the Jacksonville History Center is provided by:
