Hannibal Square Heritage Center

Beyond the restaurants and adorable shops that flank Winter Park’s Hannibal Square you’ll find the Heritage Center. This unique and historical center has been brought to us by the Crealde School of Art and by local citizens who truly care about preserving the past. They focus on African American history as well as art, families, and the local stories that neighbors have to tell.
When you walk into this free establishment, you will immediately see the various black and white photographs they have on display. Each person/​family captured has a story to tell and has been brought to the center by someone who wishes to keep their memory alive.
While I was there I learned that the «west side» of Winter Park, now known as Hannibal Square was founded in 1881 which was only 40 years after Florida became one of the continental U.S. states, number 27 to be exact. I also was happy to discover that the Center rotates their exhibitions, offers workshops to adults as well as outreach programs for youth and seniors within the Winter Park community. Upstairs, there’s also a Family Heritage office staffed by volunteers who will help you trace your roots and gather important genealogical information unique to your family. I was extremely pleased to learn that this service is free considering that almost nothing is anymore. Plus, the kind ladies who do the digging are sweet and very willing to help if they can.
So although this is not a large museum housing famous artists or important sculptures, it’s vital to the continuation of Winter Park’s rich history and strong community values.