The Jacksonville History Center

On July 16, 2025, the City of Jacksonville submitted its application to become a U.S. Civil Rights Trail City. The designation will activate education, boost tourism, and reflect Jacksonville’s prominent role in shaping the national civil rights movement – the rich history that continues to shape our city today. Join us on Thursday, August 27, to hear the story behind the application, as told by Pat McCollough, Special Advisor to the Mayor, Civic Engagement & Youth Empowerment.

Did you know the 167-year-old St. Johns River Lighthouse is one of four structures added to the Jacksonville History Center’s 2026 List of Endangered Historic Properties? Come learn about the Mayport Lighthouse Association’s plans to save the historic tower by relocating it to the Mayport Village waterfront, where it can be fully restored and opened for all to enjoy. Join us on Wednesday, September 24 at the Jacksonville History Center.

The story began with a simple but ambitious question: Could Mayo Clinic's distinctive model of care be extended to serve patients in another part of the country? Learn about the story behind Mayo's presence in Jacksonville as told by author Dr. Virginia Wright-Peterson, who will sign copies of the book "Mayo Clinic in Florida" on Wednesday, October 14 at the Jacksonville History Center.

Did you know that the city of Jacksonville has more examples of the Prairie School style of architecture than any city outside the Midwest? It has also lost more Prairie style buildings than any other city, with perhaps the exception of Chicago. For an engaging look at avant-garde architecture in Jacksonville, join us and our Historian-at-Large, Dr. Wayne W. Wood, for a presentation and book-signing of his 21st book: Avant Garde Architecture in Jacksonville.