About Barberville Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts
Barberville Pioneer
Located on 1776 Lightfoot Lane in Barberville, FL, the Barberville Pioneer Settlement stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of America's pioneers. Established in 1976, our organization, a non-profit 501c3 corporation, was founded by a group of dedicated Volusia County teachers with a profound appreciation for the arts. Lura Bell, Anne Johnson, Mary McClancy, Dorothy Felton, Marion Hillabold, Shirley Keppel, Dorothy Johnson, and Viola Pierson came together to create the Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts, Inc., driven by a shared vision to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of our forbearers.
Originally housed within the historic Central School of Barberville, dating back to circa 1919, our institution began its journey as a lease from the Volusia County School Board. However, in 2001, recognizing the significance of our mission, the School Board generously transferred ownership of the property to the Board of Directors of the Pioneer Settlement. This pivotal moment marked a new chapter in our history, allowing us to deepen our commitment to education, preservation, and cultural enrichment.
At the heart of our mission lies a dedication to educating and empowering both the public and future generations with a profound understanding of pioneer life. Through immersive hands-on experiences, engaging folk life demonstrations, meticulous preservation efforts, and captivating historical exhibits, we strive to evoke the essence of our ancestors' way of life. As stewards of this invaluable heritage, we invite you to join us in our journey of discovery, appreciation, and celebration of America's pioneering spirit at the Barberville Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts.