UCF\u2019s new Public History Center in Sanford will host its inaugural PumpkinFest on Oct. 27, celebrating the region\u2019s renewed connection to the Seminole pumpkin variety that was first cultivated by native Floridians in the 1500s before it was almost lost in modern times.<\/p>\n
The family event also will feature the history of Halloween through storytelling, games, crafts and educational exhibits.<\/p>\n
\u201cPumpkinFest is a great way for families to learn about the Seminole pumpkin\u2019s association to Florida history and to interact in ways that are both educational and fun,\u201d said Rosalind Beiler, UCF\u2019s director of public history. \u201cWe think this makes our event unique and serves as a great historical connection.\u201d<\/p>\n
Events such as PumpkinFest help support the 女仆AV\u2019s goal of engaging the community to learn from and contribute to its own history.<\/p>\n
The Public History Center, at 301 W. 7th St., was formerly known as Seminole County Public School\u2019s Student Museum, an interpretive center and hands-on history museum. The former 1902 school building features an original classroom, pioneer room with a log cabin and tools; Grandma\u2019s Attic with vintage household items and clothes; and other displays.<\/p>\n
PumpkinFest will be 1-5 p.m. and a donation of $5 per person is suggested.<\/p>\n
Some gardeners say the Seminole pumpkin is one of the easiest edible plants to grow. The variety is making a great comeback as a summer-season plant. The fruit is sweeter than other gourds, yellow or orange in color, and not stringy.\u00a0It can be baked, steamed, boiled, fried or sun-dried as the native Floridians did.<\/p>\n