Spotlight on Fort Christmas Historical Park: A Time Remembered

Tucked away in a quiet landscape in Central Florida, Fort Christmas Historical Park is a living history lesson for anyone curious about Florida’s frontier days.

As visitors wander through its worn wooden gates, they are transported back in time to rural Florida life circa 1870-1930. The preserved park pulls back the curtain for a peek into the lives of early settlers and Indigenous people during that historic era.

The centerpiece is a replica of the fort built in 1837, used as a supply depot for soldiers during the Second Seminole War. History buffs and curious guests can explore several pioneer-style homes and a restored “Florida cracker” home furnished with original and reproduction period pieces. Visitors can check out a charming schoolhouse and lunchroom, plus a historic sugar cane mill, vintage farm equipment, and a museum filled with stories of the past.

The full-scale replica of Fort Christmas was built in the late 1970s by Orange County Parks and Recreation in tandem with the Fort Christmas Historical Society. Entry to the park is free. The historic homes, school and fort are open daily, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., including most holidays (park is closed Dec. 24-25).  Before you visit, be sure to check out this virtual tour of Fort Christmas Historical Park.

While best known as a historical site, the 175-acre park is also popular with sports enthusiasts, with a basketball court, a baseball field, a tennis court, and sand volleyball. Shady picnic areas, playgrounds and grills are on site as well.

Fort Christmas Historical Park also hosts Barnyard Banter, a series of educational programs and events held on the third Saturday of each month from 1-2 p.m. for all ages. Visit www.OrangeCountyParks.net for more information.