Many Voices, One Nation: Stories of Democracy in Our Parks

Tierra Verde — Fort De Soto Park employees, with park supervisor Clare Merchant and his family, ca.1965. Heritage Village Photograph Collection. Item P-4638. Heritage Village Library & Archives Special Collection, Largo, Florida.

Opening on July 11, this captivating exhibit expands on the acclaimed Smithsonian exhibit, Many Voices, One Nation. It showcases the rich tapestry of American democracy as reflected throughout the nation as well as in our local parks. In collaboration with dedicated students from Eckerd College, and guest curator Jane Tomlinson, we delve into the histories of these cherished public spaces, revealing untold stories and highlighting their significance in our communities. Housed within the historic Madeira Beach Cottage, this exhibit invites visitors to explore the diverse narratives that have shaped our nation, park spaces and, by extension, ourselves.