This Sunday, learn the history of Florida's "Magical Waters"
As part of the Speaking of History lecture series, author and graphic designer Rick Kilby will present “Finding the Fountain of Youth: Ponce de Leon and Florida’s Magical Waters” on Sunday, Jan. 19. The lecture and book signing will be held at 2 p.m. in the Pinellas Room at Heritage Village.
Kilby’s book, published in 2013 by the University Press of Florida, describes how the search for treasures along Florida’s waters 500 years ago continues to remain part of the mystique of Florida.
Dreamers, opportunists, developers, young families, tourists, and retirees often seek to enrich themselves and enjoy Florida’s bountiful wealth. Kilby illustrates that the fictional mythology that has sustained the legend has actually transformed the historical record of our populous peninsula.
For more than 25 years, Orlando graphic designer Rick Kilby has studied Florida’s popular history and helped his clients in presenting historical topics in interesting, visual ways.
A 1986 graduate of the University of Florida, he was creative director of the Church Street Station attraction in Orlando before launching his own design studio, Kilby Creative. In 2008, Kilby launched a blog about Florida history and culture, “Visual Ephemera: Musings from the State I’m In,” on which he’s posted more than 400 articles and received more than 200,000 page views.
He has also contributed articles to the Society for Commercial Archeology’s “Road Notes” and presented papers at the Society’s conferences, including one on Florida’s Fountain of Youth as a roadside attraction.
Heritage Village is located at 11909 125th St. N. in Largo. This living history museum brings more than 150 years of local history to life. Tour 28 authentic buildings and structures, and experience historical Pinellas County through hands-on exploration. Heritage Village has WI-FI availability.
Heritage Village is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. It is closed all Pinellas County holidays.
