Historic Hernando Preservation Society

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Historic Hernando Preservation Society The Historic Hernando Preservation Society (HHPS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the history of Hernando County, FL.

Founded in 2008, HHPS offers monthly meetings, guest lectures, and historic tours. The efforts of organizing historic preservation in Hernando County can be originally traced to that of Virginia Jackson in the late 1970’s and early 80’s. The Hernando Historical Museum Association Inc. was founded to “collect, preserve, restore, arrange, and display articles depicting pioneer life in the County of Hernando and State of Florida.” Her efforts led to the current museums in Hernando County, including the May-Stringer Museum, the 1885 Train Depot Museum, and the Countryman One Room School House Museum. By 2006, Dr. Roger Landers, a historian with the Museum Association, stated: “There are a few efforts around the county to preserve local history. There’s the May-Stringer Hernando Heritage Museum on Museum Court & there’s Bob Martinez’s publication Old Brooksville in Photos & Stories. But it is not enough.” (St. Pete Times article: Know Thy County is historian’s goal for us: He fears that local history is being forgotten, so he hopes to form a historical committee, by Asjylyn Loder, published May 20, 2006). Dr. Lander’s goal was to establish the Hernando Historical Advisory Board Committee, to be appointed by the Hernando County Commission. He added, “ It could even be a private commission or foundation that relies on grants. “ However, this goal never came to fruition, since “the board [Hernando County Commission] decided to hold off in case such a committee came with unforeseen costs.”

In the Spring of 2008, at an event sponsored by FPAN (Florida Public Archaeology Network), Dr. Roger Landers again suggested that a new organization be founded in Hernando County, whose focus would be on the preservation of Hernando county’s historical/cultural resources. The Hernando County Museum Director, Virginia Jackson, supported this Preservation Society to meet at the 1885 Train Depot Museum. By May of 2008, the attending meeting participants formed a sub-committee to draft a charter for approval. This effort was led by Mr. David Letasi (PreHistorian/Paleontologist retired from MOSI (Musuem of Science & Industry in Tampa), who would become the group’s first President. On July 16, 2008, the newly created charter was passed into adoption and formally started The Hernando Preservation Society, also known also as Hernando Past (Preservation A Sacred Trust). This newly formed organization functioned as a committee (chair) of the Hernando Historical Museum Association Inc., until 2011, when the Preservation Society became a separate and independent non-profit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida.

Only 26 tickets left for the Wednesday night 2nd Annual Haunted Hernando History Tour. 41 are available for the Thursday...
10/06/2026

Only 26 tickets left for the Wednesday night 2nd Annual Haunted Hernando History Tour. 41 are available for the Thursday night tour. Buy your tickets now before they both sell out!

09/13/2026
Brooksville Methodist Church 1911
09/12/2026

Brooksville Methodist Church 1911

Our New Website is Live!We are thrilled to launch the official new HHPS website! It is up and running, with exciting add...
09/08/2026

Our New Website is Live!

We are thrilled to launch the official new HHPS website! It is up and running, with exciting additions on the way—including an upcoming HHPS Speakers Bureau and fresh local history resources. Take a look around for news and event updates (like our 2nd Annual Haunted Hernando History Tour).

(Notice a broken link or typo? Help us polish the site by dropping us a quick note!)

Discover and preserve the rich history of Hernando County, FL with the Historic Hernando Preservation Society. Explore local heritage, events, and tours.

Hernando's Spirited Past: We know that during Prohibition (and well after), Hernando County had a reputation for produci...
03/06/2026

Hernando's Spirited Past: We know that during Prohibition (and well after), Hernando County had a reputation for producing and transporting a lot of "shine". From hidden stills in the wood and swamps to late-night runs down lonely country roads, the era of bootlegging is a fascinating—if clandestine—part of our local heritage.

We want to hear from YOU!

Did your family have a "special" recipe passed down?

Do you know of old still sites reclaimed by the woods?

Have you heard tales of local "rum-runners" outsmarting the law?

Drop a story in the comments or send us a DM if you'd prefer to keep it anonymous. We aren't looking for names or trouble—just the history that makes our county unique!

Happy Valentine's Day:
02/14/2026

Happy Valentine's Day:

The Victorians had just the thing: a cruel and mocking version of the traditional Valentine’s Day card. Later coined “vinegar valentines”

🏆 NOMINATIONS OPEN: The Lee Anne Shoeman Historic Preservation Award 🏆Do you know someone who has gone above and beyond ...
02/08/2026

🏆 NOMINATIONS OPEN: The Lee Anne Shoeman Historic Preservation Award 🏆
Do you know someone who has gone above and beyond to protect the heritage of Hernando County? The Historic Hernando Preservation Society is now officially accepting nominations for the Lee Anne Shoeman Historic Preservation Award!
This prestigious award is named in honor of Lee Anne Shoeman, whose tireless dedication to our local history set the standard for preservation in our community. We are looking to recognize individuals, organizations, or projects that have made a significant impact in:
🏛️ Restoring historic structures or landmarks. 📚 Educating the public about our shared heritage. 🛡️ Advocating for the protection of Hernando County’s unique character.

Click here to Nominate by February 28:

Explore the prestigious awards of the Historic Hernando Preservation Society. Discover our achievements in preserving Hernando's rich history.

Do you want to be the first to know about the latest preservation projects, historic tours, and community events in Hern...
02/08/2026

Do you want to be the first to know about the latest preservation projects, historic tours, and community events in Hernando County?

The Historic Hernando Preservation Society (HHPS) invites you to sign up for our official e-newsletter! By joining our digital community, you'll receive exclusive updates delivered straight to your inbox, including:

Behind-the-Scenes Access: Get the latest news on our stewardship efforts at sites like Chinsegut Hill.

Early Bird Announcements: Be the first to hear about special limited-attendance tours and lecture series.

Local Lore: Deep dives into the stories and people that shaped our county.

Volunteer Opportunities: Learn how you can get hands-on in protecting our heritage.

Don't miss a beat—sign up today!

https://preview.mailerlite.io/forms/1923773/171366982180931288/share

Our newsletter is sent monthly, except when there are major issues to update everyone about, and we promise to respect your inbox. Thank you for helping us keep Hernando County's history alive and accessible for everyone.

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Brooksville, FL
34605

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