Uncovering Fort Lauderdale’s Unique History with Kids

Introduction

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a bustling city with a unique and fascinating history that is perfect for exploring with the kids. From the Seminole Wars to the growth of the city’s tourism industry, Fort Lauderdale has a rich and interesting past that can be explored in a variety of ways. From visiting the oldest buildings in the city to participating in educational programs at local museums, there are plenty of ways to experience Fort Lauderdale’s history with the whole family.

Visit the Oldest Buildings in the City

One of the best ways to get a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s past is to visit some of the city’s oldest buildings. The Stranahan House, built in 1901, is the oldest building in the city and is a great place to start. The house and its grounds are open to the public and offer a variety of educational programs for families. Visitors can learn about the early pioneers who built the house and the city, as well as how the house has been adapted over time.

Just a few blocks away is the New River Inn, which was built in 1905. This inn was originally a hotel and saloon, but today it is a museum that offers a variety of educational programs. Visitors can explore the inn, learn about its history, and take part in a variety of activities and events.

The Historic Stranahan House Museum is another great place to explore the city’s history. This museum was built in 1904 and was the home of Frank and Ivy Stranahan, who were two of the earliest settlers in the area. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities that help visitors learn about the early pioneers and the city’s growth.

Explore the City’s History at Local Museums

The Fort Lauderdale Museum of Arts is a great place to explore the city’s history and culture. The museum offers a variety of educational programs for families, including a guided tour of the museum’s galleries. Visitors can also learn about the city’s history through the museum’s permanent collection, which includes artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries.

The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is also a great place to explore the city’s history. This museum offers a variety of educational programs and activities that help visitors learn about the city’s past. From guided tours of the house’s grounds to interactive exhibits and events, there is something for everyone at the Bonnet House Museum.

The Historic Stranahan House Museum also offers a variety of educational programs for families. The museum offers guided tours of the house and grounds, as well as interactive exhibits and activities. Visitors can learn about the city’s history through the museum’s collections, which include artifacts from the early settlers and the growth of the city.

Learn About the Seminole Wars

The Seminole Wars were a series of conflicts between the Seminole and the United States government that lasted from 1817 to 1858. Fort Lauderdale played an important role in the wars, and visitors can learn about this fascinating history at the Seminole War Museum. The museum offers a variety of educational programs, including guided tours of the museum and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take part in special events, such as reenactments of battles from the wars.

Discover the City’s Maritime History

Fort Lauderdale is home to a rich maritime history, and visitors can explore this fascinating past at the Fort Lauderdale Maritime Museum. The museum offers a variety of educational programs, including guided tours of the museum and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take part in special events, such as boat tours and lectures.

Explore the City’s Cultural Heritage

Fort Lauderdale is home to many different cultures, and visitors can explore the city’s cultural heritage at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center. The center offers a variety of educational programs, including guided tours of the library and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take part in special events, such as lectures and workshops.

Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a great place to explore the city’s history and culture. The museum offers a variety of educational programs and activities that help visitors learn about the city’s past. From guided tours of the house’s grounds to interactive exhibits and events, there is something for everyone at the Bonnet House Museum.

Explore the Everglades

The Everglades are a unique and fascinating ecosystem that is home to a variety of plants and animals. Visitors can explore the Everglades and learn about its history and ecology at the Everglades National Park. The park offers a variety of educational programs, including guided tours of the park and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take part in special events, such as boat tours and lectures.

Discover the City’s Native American Heritage

Fort Lauderdale is home to many different Native American tribes, and visitors can explore the city’s Native American heritage at the Seminole Indian Village. The village offers a variety of educational programs, including guided tours of the village and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take part in special events, such as lectures and workshops.

Learn About the City’s Railroad History

Fort Lauderdale is home to a rich railroad history, and visitors can explore this fascinating past at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum. The museum offers a variety of educational programs, including guided tours of the museum and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take part in special events, such as train rides and lectures.

Visit the Historic Stranahan House Museum

The Historic Stranahan House Museum is another great place to explore the city’s history. This museum was built in 1904 and was the home of Frank and Ivy Stranahan, who were two of the earliest settlers in the area. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities that help visitors learn about the early pioneers and the city’s growth.

Conclusion

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a bustling city with a unique and fascinating history that is perfect for exploring with the kids. From visiting the oldest buildings in the city to participating in educational programs at local museums, there are plenty of ways for families to experience Fort Lauderdale’s history. Visitors can explore the city’s past by visiting the Stranahan House, the New River Inn, the Historic Stranahan House Museum, and more. They can also explore the city’s history at local museums, such as the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Arts, the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, and the Seminole War Museum. Additionally, visitors can learn about the city’s culture and heritage by visiting the African American Research Library and Cultural Center and the Seminole Indian Village. Finally, visitors can discover the city’s railroad history and explore the Everglades at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum and Everglades National Park. No matter how you choose to explore Fort Lauderdale’s unique history, it promises to be an exciting and educational experience for the whole family.