By Lin Green
Herald Columnist
As someone who genuinely loves history, I have always believed every community has a story worth preserving. In fact, history was one of the first things that made me fall in love with Sanford.
Long before I knew many of the people who now call this city home, I was drawn to its brick-lined streets, historic architecture, and unmistakable charm. Sanford doesn't simply acknowledge its past, it embraces it.
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Sanford Museum Curator Brigitte Stephenson about the Museum's role as our nation celebrates America's 250th anniversary. Her perspective was both insightful and inspiring. She shared that while we often learn about history through larger-than-life figures, local history reminds us that ordinary people and communities are also woven into America's story. "Everyone is a part of history simply by living," she said, and I couldn't agree more.
That philosophy is beautifully reflected in the Museum's newest community initiative, The Great Sanford Duck Hunt, the creative vision of Historical Society board member Therese Johnson. Throughout downtown, families search for patriotic ducks while discovering the Museum, exploring local businesses, and creating memories together. Best of all, the Museum remains free, making history accessible to everyone.
What impressed me most, however, is the Museum's commitment to telling history honestly. As Stephenson explained, history isn't black and white. It includes difficult chapters that help communities heal alongside stories of resilience, ingenuity, and hope. Rather than avoiding uncomfortable truths, the Museum listens to its community, preserves diverse voices, and continually builds a more complete understanding of Sanford's past.
Visitors are often surprised by exhibits highlighting Sanford's rich baseball heritage or the fascinating life of city founder Henry Shelton Sanford, whose influence stretched far beyond Florida. Stephenson also hopes more people learn about local figures like Dr. Starke, a pioneering physician, civil rights advocate, and community leader whose impact deserves wider recognition.
Perhaps Sanford's greatest lesson mirrors America's own story: resilience. From citrus freezes and economic hardship to the perseverance of communities like Goldsboro and Upsala, Sanford has repeatedly adapted without losing sight of its identity. As Stephenson reflected, one lesson history teaches is not to put all our eggs in one basket, but also to remember the determination of those who refused to let Sanford be forgotten.
When visitors leave the Museum, Stephenson hopes they leave with "a sense of wonder" and a desire to keep learning. That sense of curiosity may be one of history's greatest gifts.
Congratulations to the Sanford Museum, the Sanford Historical Society, and the many volunteers preserving the stories that define our community. As America marks 250 years, Sanford reminds us that history isn't simply something we study, it's something we continue to write together.
To learn more or plan your visit, explore the Sanford Museum online at https://sanfordfl.gov/government/parks-and-recreation/museum/ .
