Look Into The Past at Perry, Florida’s Forest Capital Museum State Park and Cracker Homestead

Forest Capital Museum State Park has a diverse set of attractions, including a historical cracker settlement to walk around, an indoor museum with dioramas telling the story of the turpentine industry and it’s importance to Florida.

Turpentine, or “naval stores” was an important industry in Natural North Florida until after the Civil War.  Used in ship construction, the industry only declined when steel replaced wood as the main material for shipbuilding.  Now, that industry is just a memory, but Perry, in Taylor County, is still the “Forest Capital” of Florida, with a lively pulpwood, logging and paper industry.  The museum celebrates the heritage of Florida’s forest industry. The heart of the museum is dedicated to longleaf pines and the 5,000 products manufactured from them. The 50-plus-year-old longleaf pines growing on the museum grounds provide a majestic canopy and create an enjoyable walking trail for visitors. Upon exiting the museum, visitors take a step back in time to explore an authentic 19th century Cracker homestead, much like those scattered throughout Florida at the turn of the century. Rangers lead interpretive tours during special events and upon request.

Located just south of town, the Museum feature exhibits, and most interestingly, the Cracker Homestead.  Hours are limited, and we recommend you call ahead ((850) 584-3227) to be sure they’re open when you plan to visit.