Special Exhibits to Remain Open during Museum of Florida History Temporary Closing

TALLAHASSEE –

Beginning Saturday, February 21, 2015, the Museum of Florida History will be temporarily closing as part of an ongoing renovation project at the R. A. Gray Building. Two exhibits, not directly affected by the construction, will remain open for public viewing, including the special exhibit, Civil Rights in the Sunshine State, and the Highwaymen Paintings. In addition, Florida’s History Shop, and The Egg Express café will remain open. All other exhibits are anticipated to be closed until June 1, 2015.

The renovations are part of a revitalization project occurring on the plaza of the R. A. Gray Building, which houses the Museum. Special care is being taken to preserve and protect the artifacts located beneath the construction area.

“As the official state history museum, we take great pride in caring for and preserving Florida’s history,” said Secretary of State Ken Detzner. “Closing the galleries affected by the renovation is a preventative measure to ensure that priceless artifacts are preserved for generations to come.”

Exhibits that will remain on display throughout the construction include the Civil Rights in the Sunshine State special exhibit that, through artifacts, videos, interactive elements and narratives, showcases the significant contributions Florida made to the state and national civil rights movement. The Museum has one of the most comprehensive collections on Florida Highwaymen paintings on public display. The Florida Highwaymen is a collective name given to a small group of African American painters from Ft. Pierce who began painting Florida landscapes in the late 1950s. These young artists developed their own individual techniques, creating unique depictions of Florida.

For updates on the renovations, follow the Museum’s social media pages on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. The Museum’s website will also be updated throughout the renovation project. For more information, visit museumoffloridahistory.com or call 850.245.6400.

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About the Museum of Florida History
The Museum of Florida History is part of the Florida Department of State’s Division of Cultural Affairs and is located in the R. A. Gray Building at 500 South Bronough Street, Tallahassee, Florida. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Sunday and holidays, noon to 4:30 p.m.  Free parking is available in the garage next to the R. A. Gray Building.