Historic Ocala Preservation Society HOPS

09/03/2026

🏈 Archive Spotlight: 1950 Auburn vs. Florida Football Program

​Check out this piece from the HOPS archives!
This official game program dates back to October 14, 1950, when the Auburn Tigers faced off against the Florida Gators.

​Highlights from the issue:

​Classic Cover Art: Illustrated by Ed Dillon, featuring cartoon college mascots from across the country.

​Vintage Gator Pride: Mid-century illustrations of Florida’s mascot alongside head coach Bob Woodruff and his staff (including backfield coach Frank Broyles).

​Roster & Retro Ads: The full 1950 Gators roster listing, team photo, and vintage ads like the Florida-Georgia Tractor Company’s "Who Gets It?" International Diesel spread.

​A fun look back at SEC history! 🐊🏈

08/28/2026

Thank you for following our social media channels. Your support is an essential part of our success.
We are seeking a volunteer grant writer to help us continue to preserve Ocala history.

08/26/2026

We're back!!

08/24/2026

The HOPS (Late) Summer 2026 Newsletter has been published and emailed!
If you would like to receive our next issue, subscribe on our website homepage (scroll to bottom of homepage) for updates on events, preservation, walking tours and more.
Stay connected to historic Ocala!!

08/23/2026

Ocala's storied past is ready to spill some secrets! Mark your calendars for September 15th, when tickets for our Ghost Tours go on sale.

Step into Ocala’s past with the HOPS Ghost Walking Tour. Follow our guide, HOPS President Kat Ramirez through historic streets and landmarks as we share stories rooted in real people, buildings, and events from the 1880s–1940s 👻🏛️

08/19/2026

Love local history?
Subscribe to the HOPS quarterly newsletter on our website homepage for updates on events, preservation, walking tours and more.
Stay connected to historic Ocala!!

HOPS is dedicated to protecting and celebrating the history of Ocala and Marion County through preservation, education, and community involvement.

08/18/2026

Get all the spooky details for the upcoming Ghost Walking Tours in the link below. Please note our disclaimers.

Tickets go on sale Sept. 15th!!

Step into Ocala’s past with the HOPS Ghost Walking Tour. Follow our guide, HOPS President Kat Ramirez through historic streets and landmarks as we share stories rooted in real people, buildings, and events from the 1880s–1940s 👻🏛️

08/16/2026

Save the Date:
Gather your crew for an evening of local legends and spooky tales!
You won't want to miss the hauntings—if you dare.
Tickets on sale Sept. 15th, 2026.

08/09/2026

It's National Book Lovers Day ❤️
Add The Way It Was to your TBR and learn about the history of Ocala & Marion County.

08/07/2026

Do you recognize any of these notable buildings?
These ceramic buildings are on display at the Bryant House, HOPS headquarters, 712 SE Fort King Street