A new set of leaders have been ushered in by the Palm Coast Historical Society, the group announced on Tuesday. Heading up the group is the Society’s new president, Peter Johnson. Along with Johnson, a new leadership board assumed their roles at a Tuesday event.
“Our area is rich in history, and it’s essential that we continue to protect and share it,” Johnson said. “Our goals include building on the progress made to preserve Fire Station 22, expanding event programming and outreach, strengthening our speaker series, and further integrating local history into our schools.”
Serving alongside Johnson are Vice President Reasa Pabst, Treasurer Richard Cooper, Secretary Mia Parada, and Board Directors Tricia Aanderud and Alex Maller. These individuals will oversee operations and upkeep of one of the area’s foremost historical 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.
A special, unanimous vote was also held to approve the nomination of Preston Zepp as Palm Coast City Historian. This nomination will be heard and considered by the Palm Coast City Council at a later date.
The Historical Society was founded in 2000 by Margaret Davies and Art Dycke, when the two were appointed the first co-historians of the City of Palm Coast, which was formally incorporated just one year prior. “The mission of the Palm Coast Historical Society is the collection, preservation, and dissemination of material related to the city of palm coast and its people,” the organization says on its website.
In addition to its annual speaker events and historical preservation work, the Society also maintains the City of Palm Coast Historical Museum. Located at 18 Florida Park Drive N (within James F. Holland Park), the museum is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
The Palm Coast Historical Society lists memberships online for $20 per year on an individual basis, as well as $30 per year for family membership. A lifetime membership is available at $300 in a one-time payment. Businesses can also join at $125 per year, and nonprofits can join at $50 per year.
“The new leadership team looks forward to continuing the society’s mission by promoting community engagement, supporting the City of Palm Coast in recognizing its historical legacy, and ensuring future generations understand and appreciate our past as we move into the future,” Johnson continued in his statement.
Chris Gollon is a Flagler County resident since 2004, as well as a staple of the local independent music scene and avid observer of Central Florida politics, arts, and recreation.
