Historic Ocala Preservation Society HOPS

10/10/2026

Marion County School Board members say the community wants the former Central Elementary building saved - 352today

The former Central Elementary School at 512 SE Third St. in Ocala, later used as the Marion County Public Schools district office, closed in December 2022 and is now the subject of community meetings as the board considers selling the property.

10/09/2026

Preserving local history takes dedicated voices!

Check out the recent opinion piece in the Ocala Gazette on saving Central Elementary, written by Pamela Stafford, a board member and past President of Historic Ocala Preservation Society (HOPS).
​Read her perspective here:

Central Elementary School was built in 1907. It is the first brick-and-mortar (elementary) school in Ocala and arguably one of the first brick-and-mortar elementary schools in the state of Florida. It should not be lost on us that it was built at a time when a majority of children were still worki...

10/07/2026

Looking to make a difference in our community? HOPS is seeking passionate new Board Members to help lead and shape our future!

​If you care about local impact and want to contribute your skills, we’d love to have you join us.

​📅 Next Board Meeting: Tuesday, October 13

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM

📍 Location: The Bryant House — 712 SE Fort King Street

​Come meet the current board, learn about our mission, and see how you can get involved. Everyone is welcome!

​

10/07/2026

Did you know?:

In 1883 Marion County had 56 schools, more than any other county. The Florida East Seminary (later known as the University of Florida) was established here in 1853, before moving to Gainesville in 1866!

Thanks to our very own Brian Stoothoff for sharing this historical detail.

There is so much history to remember, learn, and SHARE about our community.

10/05/2026

Reminder:

🏛️ Save Marion County’s Historic Central Elementary!
​The Marion County School Board is holding two meetings this Tuesday, October 6 (at 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM) in the auditorium at Marion Technical Institute on Ft. King to discuss the future of the old Central Elementary School on Third Street.
​Central Elementary is a vital piece of local history—it was the first brick-and-mortar school in Marion County, stands in the Ocala Historic District, and sits right across from the historic First Presbyterian Church.

When we preserve historic landmarks, we keep local history alive, strengthen community pride, and ensure our neighborhood thrives for generations to come.

Hope to see you there!

10/02/2026

🏛️ Save Marion County’s Historic Central Elementary!

​The Marion County School Board is holding two meetings next Tuesday, October 6 (at 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM) in the auditorium at Marion Technical Institute on Ft. King to discuss the future of the old Central Elementary School on Third Street.

​Central Elementary is a vital piece of local history—it was the very first brick-and-mortar school in Marion County, sits in the Ocala Historic District, and stands right across from the historic First Presbyterian Church.

​Ocala has already lost too many historic treasures over the years, including our old courthouse, post office, and Carnegie library. We cannot let Central Elementary suffer the same fate or be replaced by generic apartment buildings. Restored and rehabilitated, this building has incredible potential—whether adapted for professional offices (architects, engineers, attorneys), repurposed for a charter school, or retained by the School Board for administrative use.

​If you want to see this landmark preserved and put to good use, please consider attending one of Tuesday's sessions to show your support!

​For more details, check the Marion County Public Schools website under News > What's New > "Meetings set for former school district office."

09/29/2026

Ghost Tours Are Officially Sold Out! 👻✨

​Every single slot for our upcoming ghost tours has been fully booked. A massive thank you to everyone who secured their spot—we can't wait to share some haunting stories with you!

​If you missed out on these tours, stay tuned for more events coming your way.

09/28/2026

A big thank you to a group from Master the Possibilities for joining the Historic Ocala Preservation Society (HOPS) for a recent walking tour with local historian (and firefighter!) Brian Stoothoff. 👟🏛️

​We loved exploring the historic district together, sharing stories, and celebrating Ocala's rich history. Thanks for your enthusiasm and great energy!

​

09/23/2026

👻 Only 11 tickets left! 👻

​Looking for a great reason to get outside, stretch your legs, and enjoy the cooler evening air? Join us for the HOPS Ghost Tour!

​This 1-hour walking tour is a fantastic opportunity to explore historic Ocala, discover local ghost stories and heritage, and connect with fellow history lovers.

​🎟️ Grab your tickets before they’re gone:
Www.historicocala.org/events/ghost-tours/

09/22/2026

Just 13 tickets left for our Ghost Tour—5 time slots are already completely sold out! 👻🎟️

​Huge thank you for supporting HOPS! Grab yours before they’re gone 👇

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 👻🏛️