Colorful, free publication highlights lasting legacy for young readers, educators
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Orange County Regional History Center is celebrating centuries of Hispanic influence, history, and culture in Florida with a new publication created especially for the many young people who visit the museum and their teachers.
The 24-page booklet, “Celebrating Hispanic Heritage/Celebrando el Mes de la Herencia Hispana,” highlights both historic milestones and the lasting legacy of more than 500 years of Hispanic influence in Florida. The booklet’s text is presented in both English and Spanish.
The many students who visit the History Center on school field trips during Hispanic Heritage Month will receive a free copy of the booklet. Copies will also be available free to the public at the Orlando Public Library, the Marks Street Senior Center, and at the office of radio station Rumba 100.3, 2500 Maitland Center Parkway, Maitland, FL 32751.
The English language version of the booklet can be downloaded here. The Spanish language version of the booklet can be downloaded here.
“At the History Center, our mission is to provide the opportunity for all Central Florida children and families to have access to quality educational programs and resources,” says the museum’s curator of education, Amanda Parish-Walters. “We’re proud to offer this new booklet as an important resource that students and teachers can take home and read to learn more about this important part of Florida’s rich heritage.”
More than 500 years ago, Juan Ponce de León waded ashore on the northeast coast of Florida and called the area La Florida in honor of Pascua Florida – Spain’s Eastertime celebration known as the “feast of the flowers.”
Since then, adventurers, politicians, and trailblazers have shaped the landscape of La Florida. Countless people came by ship hundreds of years ago, many fled Cuba after the Revolution, and others were born and raised here. “We hope their stories inspire and encourage students to learn even more about these movers and shakers in Florida’s history,” says Parish-Walters.
