Ormond Beach Historical Society Florida History & Cultural Festival

The Ormond Beach Historical Society is hosting their 2022-2023 live Speaker Series program. The fourth event includes several authors (including Zach Zacharias, Florida history books), artists (including West Evans, Florida Highwaymen-style paintings), and historical artifact collectors and exhibitors (including Ryan Lowry, authentic World War II artifacts). Presenters will be discussing their specialties with the attendees and most will be offering various items for sale. Folklorist Diane Jacoby will tell the story, while in period dress, of the life of the elegant 16th century Spanish noblewoman Dona Maria de Menendez. Dona Maria was illegitimate daughter of Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles, and her life in the tiny colony of Santa Elena as well as the noble life she left behind in Spain will be explored. Although known as La Bastarda, she was raised within the family of her renown father, the Governor General of La Florida, the Adelantado, the founder of St. Augustine and Protector of the Holy Catholic Church.

This program is free, including an opening reception with refreshments at 9:30AM. Free parking is available in the lot adjacent to the building, and the handicap entrance is at the rear of the building. Diane Jacoby will present from 12pm to 1pm. Funding is provided in part through a Florida Humanities Community Project Grant in partnership with the Ormond Beach Historical Society.