Clerk of Court to Continue Operating Historical Museums

At the August 27 Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting, the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners voted 6-0 to rescind their previous decision to transfer the operation and management of four historical museums to the County. As a result, the operation, management, and oversight of these museums, along with the associated budgetary funds, will remain with the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller.

This decision ensures that the Clerk's office will continue to operate the Florida Maritime Museum, Manatee County Agricultural Museum, Manatee Village Historical Park, and Palmetto Historical Park.

“We sincerely appreciate the Board's unanimous decision to keep the historical museums under the Clerk's care,” said Angel Colonneso, Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller for Manatee County. “This vote ensures we can continue the public/private partnerships that for decades have preserved our local history.”

Since the 1980s, the Clerk's Historical Resources Department, in partnership with local municipalities and nonprofits, has led the restoration, preservation, and stewardship of several historical structures, boats, and a steam locomotive and the construction of many replicas, all aimed at preserving Manatee County's rich history.

The public is invited to visit these museums and experience the work of the Clerk's dedicated museum professionals, all of which can be enjoyed free of charge. For more information on each museum, including hours of operation, please visit their respective websites via the links provided below.

• Florida Maritime Museum
• Manatee County Agricultural Museum
• Manatee Village Historical Park
• Palmetto Historical Park

Published date: September 4, 2024