Pinellas County celebrates centennial with historical activities

LARGO, Fla. - Pinellas County is celebrating its 100th birthday this weekend with lots of fun family activities.

Heritage Village, the Florida Botanical Gardens and the Florida Gulf Coast Center for Fishing & Interactive Museum are teaming up to host the centennial.

The life of Pinellas County's early pioneers will be celebrated with children's activities, blacksmithing, antique cars, fiber arts demonstrations and house tours.

There will also be food vendors, displays and exhibits by area historical societies along with book sales and signings by local authors.

Admission is free, but donations are welcomed to support Heritage Village operations.

Doors are open Saturday, September 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 16, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.  

The Pinellas County Historical Society was founded in 1976 when Pinellas County donated the land for Heritage Village during the American bicentennial year. The society is a non-profit volunteer organization that supports Heritage Village's mission to collect, preserve and interpret the history of Pinellas County within the context of Florida history. Visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage for more information.

Heritage Village is located at 11909 125th St. N. in Largo. This living history museum brings more than 150 years of local history to life. Tour 28 authentic buildings and structures, and experience historical Pinellas County through hands-on exploration. Paths wind through 21 acres and connect with the Florida Botanical Gardens and the Florida Gulf Coast Center for Fishing and Interactive Museum.

On 119th Street N. in Largo - parking is free and there are shuttle buses available.