Portrait of Hernando de Soto by his descendant Rafael M. de Soto, 1989. Courtesy Hernando de Soto Historical Society

Hernando de Soto Historical Society

Celebrating its 61st year of bringing family-oriented educational and entertainment events to West Florida, the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society of Manatee County provides, as it premier event, the Florida Heritage Festival, formerly called the DeSoto Celebration, which began in 1939 and has received both regional and national recognition for its service to the citizens of Southwest Florida. The Society also produces an annual golf and fishing tournaments. It is charged with keeping alive the memory of Hernando deSoto and his conquistadors' landing in 1539 in what now is Manatee County.

Originally submitted by: Dan Miller,Representative (13th District).

More Local Legacies... Additional Florida Local Legacies Local Legacies for all U.S. States

The Local Legacies project provides a "snapshot" of American Culture as it was expressed in spring of 2000. Consequently, it is not being updated with new or revised information with the exception of "Related Website" links.

Learn More About It... Related Web Site