Secretary of State Laurel M. Lee Encourages Floridians to Celebrate National Historic Preservation Month in May

Tallahassee –

Secretary of State Laurel M. Lee encourages Floridians to celebrate National Historic Preservation Month, which is observed during the month of May to recognize the importance of preserving historic resources and their significance to local communities. The Florida Department of State is joining efforts led by the National Trust for Historic Preservation to raise awareness of historic preservation in Florida.

“Historic Preservation Month is an excellent opportunity for Floridians to explore the historic sites and museums in their community and get reacquainted with their local history,” said Secretary Lee. “Historic sites not only serve as a connection to the past, but many of them support economic development by housing retail shops, restaurants, bed and breakfasts and offices. I encourage everyone to discover the full variety of Florida’s historic places this month.”

The Florida Division of Historical Resources (DHR) works year-round to protect and promote Florida’s historic places. Historic preservation improves our quality of life and contributes to our understanding of each other and the diverse heritage of our state. Preservation of historic sites and properties benefits Florida’s economy, attracting visitors from across the nation and around the world.

During the month of May, special events will be held at historic sites throughout the state with opportunities to participate in activities and programs that celebrate historic preservation efforts in Florida.

The DHR will feature four weekly contests on its Facebook page throughout May to highlight Florida properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Prizes provided by each of the featured historic sites will be awarded each week to randomly selected individuals who correctly identify the historic site featured in each contest.

A calendar of events and programs taking place during Historic Preservation Month is available on the DHR Historic Preservation Month webpage. For more information on the National Trust for Historic Preservation, click here.

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About the Division of Historical Resources

The Florida Department of State’s Division of Historical Resources (DHR) is responsible for preserving and promoting Florida’s historical, archaeological, and folk culture resources. The Division Director’s office oversees a grants-in-aid program to help preserve and maintain Florida’s historic buildings and archaeological sites; coordinates outreach programs such as the State Historic Markers program and the Florida Folklife program which identifies and promotes the state's traditional culture. DHR directs historic preservation efforts throughout the state in cooperation with state and federal agencies, local governments, private organizations, and individuals. The Division director serves as the State Historic Preservation Officer, acting as the liaison with the national historic preservation program conducted by the National Park Service. The Division is comprised of two Bureaus, archaeological research and historic preservation. For more information visit flheritage.com.