BRADENTON, Fla. (WWSB) – The Florida heat didn’t stop families from packing Manatee Village Historical Park as the local landmark marked 50 years of preserving Manatee County history with a free community celebration.
The park, an open-air museum, showcases local life from 1840 to 1918 through restored historic buildings. Organizers say the anniversary event is designed to bring in people who may not typically visit a history museum — and to keep local stories alive for future generations.
“We have lots of people roaming around,” said Brianna Wilson, the park’s events and marketing coordinator. “Behind us we have food trucks, we have entertainers down in the courtyard, some crafts, hands-on activities. We have a blacksmith talk going on back here. Just lots of fun going on for the whole family.”…