About Panhandle Pioneer Settlement Foundation
Who We Are
The Panhandle Pioneer Settlement strives to bring together the material history of life in Calhoun County and the Florida Panhandle between the 1820s and the 1940s. We have 18 buildings of historical significance, exhibits, and collections where new pieces of history are added every year.
Our Story
Our founders, Willard and Linda Smith realized that the values and traditions of the past were being lost. They wanted to preserve the foundations of the Florida Panhandle and established the Settlement with a dedicated group of other historic preservation enthusiasts.
Living-History
We were able to transfer our first buildings and materials from their original location thanks to a land-grant lease from Calhoun County, preserving the pioneer lifestyle and serving as a living-history experience to educate future generations.
Vision
We strive to preserve the pioneer lifestyle for future generations while encouraging interest in the past stories. Our museum offers creative educational programs, exhibits, performances, and visitor experiences in an inviting environment where ideas are shared openly.
Mission
Our mission is to acquire, document, research, and restore, buildings,
furnishings, and tools to educate the public on the value of community,
commitment, innovation, and appreciation of the history of pioneer life in
Calhoun County and the surrounding northwest Florida region.
This mission is accomplished through the stewardship of the Community
Foundation Endowment Fund, Donations, Memberships, and Grants.
Available for All
We achieve our mission by preserving, maintaining, and interpreting our site, structures, and collections for the public for research, education programs, and appropriate private and community functions.
A Not-For Profit Corporation
The Panhandle Pioneer Settlement is a 501©3 not-for-profit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida.
We help to bring to life the history of pioneer life in Calhoun County and the surrounding Northwest Florida Region. You can walk through each building with a guided tour or during most events to see 1st hand the actual houses that people lived in, the items they used in daily life, and learn some tricks of the time period.