. The Pearce Homestead is located on the Kissimmee River in Highlands County. This historic homestead (circa 1875) sits on ~ 35 acres of oak hammock, hiking trails and citrus groves. Architecturally, the homestead includes a main house (rebuilt in 1916), the two-room Basinger schoolhouse, several out buildings, a barn, boathouse, dock, and historic family cemetery. The historic importance of the site is exemplified by its qualification for listing on the National Historic Register. This homestead was donated to the South Water Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) by the Trust of Edna Pearce Lockett as part of the land acquisition for the Kissimmee River Restoration Project. The Pearce Homestead is uniquely situated on Phase II of the Kissimmee River Restoration allowing for in-depth studies focusing on environmental restoration and land management, as well as the potential to provide unparalleled opportunities for historical, cultural, agricultural and environmental education programs.

CES is currently developing a creative Education and Outreach Program at the Pearce Homestead in partnership with Family Lands Remembered, LLC. The program educates Florida’s students, teachers, residents and visitors about the importance of ecological conservation and restoration, agricultural stewardship and historic preservation. CES is developing a program to capture and disseminate the history of Florida’s Crackers, Cowboys and the Cracker Trail (click here for a musical FCTA slideshow) to help keep Florida’s unique heritage, agricultural history and environmental stewardship alive. CES’ first event highlighted the Pearce Homestead: Then and Now which attracted over 300 guests! (Click here for a musical slideshow) The educational materials developed will provide a connection to Florida's agricultural past, as well as its future.

Family Lands Remembered is a strategic consulting firm focused on rural lands, including large scale conservation of environmental and cultural resources, profitable agriculture, sustainable development, and the use of innovative tools such as Florida’s Rural Land Stewardship. More information can be found online: www.familylandsremembered.com

Cracker BBQ on May 19th from 3- 7 pm - We had a wonderful Cracker BBQ hosting almost 135 guests! The objective of the event was to raise awareness about the Homestead and its important role in the history and future of the Heartland. The keynote speaker was the renowned Florida storyteller, Judge Nelson E. Bailey who performed with his cracker horse, dog and whip. The Jerry Mincey band entertained guests with their Florida cracker-style music and stories. A local caterer provided a delicious and nutritious BBQ dinner for our guests. Download the video slideshow of the event.