Wednesday, September 26, 2012

FREE ADMISSION TO CRACKER COUNTRY DURING SMITHSONIAN MUSEUM MAGAZINE DAY

Mildred W. and Doyle E. Carlton Jr. Cracker Country, a living history museum at the Florida State Fairgrounds, is participating in the most highly anticipated event promoting history, culture, and the arts, Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day, Saturday, September 29th.  The program developed by the Smithsonian Magazine allows a visitor with a Museum Day Pass and one guest free admissions to the museum. Cracker Country, now in it’s fifth year participating in the program, has added more interactive exhibits for the guest to enjoy.




Experience a late 1800’s interpretation of a Cowhunter’s camp, where guests can hear stories about rural Florida cowhunting, and a demonstration on how to lasso.  Crafting in the time period will also be demonstrated by making fabric dolls.  Guests can design and stuff their own 1800’s style fabric doll to take home.  In addition, the original buildings will be open for the public to explore while listening to live dulcimer music.

“Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day is one of Cracker Country’s favorite events to participate in”, said Dan Marshall, Manager of Museum Operations in Cracker Country.  “We are expecting more in attendance with the Department of State’s Viva Florida 500 initiative having an effect on people’s interest in Florida history.”

Cracker Country will be open September 29th for the special event.  For Museum Day admissions visit the Smithsonian Magazine website at smithsonianmag.com/museumday and download a Museum Day Admission Card. This card will admit two guests inside Cracker Country for FREE.
General Pricing is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and children (6-12), children 5 years old and younger will be admitted for FREE.

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Cracker Country seeks volunteers!


Mildred W. and Doyle E. Carlton, Jr. Cracker Country, a rural Florida living history museum located on the Florida State Fairgrounds, is seeking volunteers to help interpret rural Florida history all guests.  Volunteers will learn about 1890’s rural Florida, educate Tampa Bay area kids and adults about the time period, and participate in the 2013 Florida State Fair in February.



“We are very excited to open volunteer recruitment up to the public”, said Dan Marshall, Manager of Museum Operations at Cracker Country.  “This is such a great way to help Tampa Bay area youth and be involved in a fun, educational experience that is both rewarding and memorable.”

Cracker Country volunteers play an essential role in teaching the traditions of rural Florida. Volunteer opportunities include assisting staff with (1) the development and presentation of interpretive and educational programs; (2) the documentation, cataloging, and conservation of museum collections and library; (3) museum store operations; (4) the production of period correct hand-made items; (5) physical maintenance of buildings, exhibits and museum grounds; and (6) the maintenance of the museums living collection including heirloom gardens and heritage livestock breeds; and (7) the maintenance of model trains and animatronics.

Cracker Country was established in 1978 by Mildred W. and Doyle E. Carlton, Jr. so future generations could better understand and appreciate Florida's rural heritage. From the rustic cypress log corn crib to the grand old two-story Carlton house, Cracker Country features thirteen original buildings dating from 1870-1912. These buildings were moved to their present location from throughout the state, then restored and furnished with antiques of the period.

The Florida State Fairgrounds is located in Tampa, Florida.  In addition to holding the annual Florida State Fair, February 7-18, 2013, the Fairgrounds hosts a wide variety of other events throughout the year.  The fairgrounds cover over 330 acres, with many different types of buildings. The mission of the Florida State Fair Authority is to create positive entertainment experiences through a commitment to agriculture, education, and community service. 

For more information on Cracker Country events and volunteer opportunities, please contact Jennifer Becker, Programs Supervisor of Cracker Country Living History Museum at