A fascinating new program series presented by the Florida Humanities Council is coming to the Lightner Museum in 2018! The Humanities Speakers Series showcases four engaging talks and performances focusing on Florida’s history, culture, and people.

The speaker series begins February 2018 and ends April 2018. Admission to each program is $10 and is free for Lightner Museum members and Flagler College students. For tickets visit www.lightnermuseum.org/speaker-series. All programs will be hosted at Lightner Museum’s Historic Pool Area, 75 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084.

The series will touch on a wide range of topics including a historical journey to Florida colonial life, a dive into the cultural lore of our state’s lush springs, and an exploration of manatees – Florida’s beloved sea cows.

February 8, 2018 at 6:30 p.m.: Michael Francis from University of South Florida presents “Before Jamestown: Europeans, Africans, and Indians in La Florida, 1513 – 1607”. The talk will focus on the early history of European settlement efforts in Florida and how it continues to impact the region today. Having recently celebrated the 450th anniversary of its own settlement, Dr. Francis’s talk is particularly well-suited for the City of St. Augustine. Light refreshments will be served.

The Florida Humanities Council partners with community organizations around the state. Support for the Speaker Series is provided by the Florida Humanities Council with funds from the Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs. Lightner Museum programs are also supported by the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council.

The Lightner Museum is handicap accessible. Parking is free after 5 p.m. and is available behind the museum. For more information, contact the Lightner Museum at 904-824-2874.

The Lightner Museum is a non-profit cultural institution sustained by the generous support of individuals, businesses and sponsors.