A simpler life preserved at historical park

Ever wonder what it was like to live in Northwest Florida during the nineteenth and early twentieth century? Head over to explore the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement in Blountstown and step back in time.

Eighteen historic buildings gathered from areas around the Apalachicola River and the Northwest Florida region, are arranged to replicate an idyllic farm community. Explore a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, grist mill, post office, church, school and more all assembled in intricate detail. Three styles of log cabins commonly built in Florida: the round log, the split log and the dovetail log are historically preserved.

Area residents Willard and Linda Smith founded the Settlement in 1989.  As people who lived the pioneer lifestyle, the Smiths realized that the values and traditions of the past were being lost as time progressed. The Smith’s desire is to preserve the pioneering traditions that formed the foundations of the Florida Panhandle.

The Settlement hosts several events during the year such as hog butchering, sacred harp singing, quilt shows, knife shows, pioneer day, sugar cane syrup making and more. Classes in blacksmithing, canning, basket weaving, fireplace cooking, quilting, syrup making and more are also offered. Click here to view calendar: panhandlepioneer.org/events.htm.

There is also a trail to explore connecting the Settlement with Sam Atkins Park and a wetland trail wrapping around the Settlement.

The Panhandle Pioneer Settlement is open 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. CST, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday or by appointment. Telephone: (850) 674-2777 or visit their website at panhandlepioneer.org

Address: 17869 NW Pioneer Settlement Rd.
Sam Atkins Park
Blountstown, FL 32424 ::MAP::