[ad_1]
MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — In a time where change happens fast and new technology is evolving around us, a museum in Palmetto is holding on to moments in time — hoping more people can experience the joys of the history that surrounds them in Manatee County.
What You Need To Know
- One of the exhibits at the Manatee County Agricultural Museum is called “Dairy Days of Manatee County”
- It traces the history of dairy farms in the area and shows innovations that have changed the industry in the last century
- It’s open Tuesday through Friday, as well as the first and third Saturdays of each month, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
History is always around us.
But Diane Ingram likes to live in history.
“I think it’s important to know where you came from,” she said.
And she likes to educate the younger generations.
“One of the things that is my most favorite things is doing activities and programming for kids,” Ingram said.
She is the supervisor at the Manatee County Agricultural Museum in Palmetto.
She has worked there for 23 years since it opened its doors in 2002.
Ingram is always thinking of ways to engage families in learning.
“This is helping the kids learn what chickens like to eat. And chickens love worms,” she said.
The museum is a family-centered experience, offering artifacts and history about agriculture, farming and ranching.
One of their exhibits is called “Dairy Days of Manatee County.” It traces the history of dairy farms in the area and shows innovations that have changed the industry in the last century.
“At one point in time, in the 1950s, there were over 30 dairies at one time. Over time, there have been over 60, and most folks don’t know that. Today, there’s only three dairies here in Manatee County, and they’re all owned by the same family,” she explained.
A lot has changed in the agriculture industry over the years.
“The agriculture today in Manatee County, other than tourism, is still the largest industry. But each year, it gets smaller and smaller. Land is being sold for development. Land is being sold because farmers and ranchers don’t have children to leave it to,” she said.
Ingram says the museum’s programs are expanding, and as more families participate, the importance of sharing the history grows.
“So if we lose that heritage, people who live here now or who come to live here are not going to understand the history of the area,” she said.
“It’s great for families and kids,” she said.
As Ingram creates new ways for visitors to learn, she ensures that the history of agriculture in Manatee County will continue.
The museum offers summer educational programs for kids.
It’s open Tuesday through Friday, as well as the first and third Saturdays of each month, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Staff said that the Manatee County Agricultural Museum is part of the historical resources department of the Manatee Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller.
[ad_2]
Julia Hazel
Source link