News Summary
The Leon County Public Library will host an interactive lecture titled ‘The Stories Behind the Names’ led by GIS specialist Marcus Curtis. Attendees will explore the hidden histories behind familiar names in Tallahassee and Leon County using archival materials. This free event encourages community engagement and a deeper understanding of local heritage, aligning with the city’s preparations for its 200th anniversary.
Tallahassee – The Leon County Public Library is set to host an interactive lecture titled “The Stories Behind the Names” on July 26 from 11 a.m. to noon at its main branch located at 200 W. Park Ave. This event will be presented by Marcus Curtis, a GIS specialist for Tallahassee-Leon County Geographic Information Systems (TLCGIS) and a native of Tallahassee.
Participants in the lecture will delve into the hidden histories behind familiar names in Tallahassee and Leon County. Utilizing archival photos, historic maps, and interactive digital StoryMaps, attendees will gain insights into local history with a focus on Leon County’s tax cadastral map from 1883 and the territorial growth of the continental United States. The lecture will also cover significant historical events ranging from the American Revolutionary War to the Civil War, enhancing understanding of the local area’s rich background.
The concept for this lecture emerged from the growing public interest in local history and the significance of historical landmarks. As Tallahassee approaches its 200th anniversary in 2024, the GIS department is preparing to launch a bicentennial-themed landing page featuring historical narratives. Curtis, who boasts nearly two decades of experience at TLCGIS, has actively contributed to research projects at notable institutions such as the John G. Riley Center and Museum and the Florida Historic Capitol Museum. His commitment to historical accuracy involves meticulous research, including documents from the Library of Congress, land deeds, and historical maps dating back to the 1820s.
In addition to the lecture, attendees will have access to an array of resources on the website tlcgis.org/history. These resources will include walking tours, exploration of historical landmarks, downloadable maps, educational games for children, and tutorials for designing custom maps. The aim is to provide a comprehensive experience that engages both young and old residents in the cultural heritage of the city.
The Leon County Library has hosted a variety of speakers discussing history, arts, and science as part of its lecture series since 2017. This ongoing initiative encourages community engagement and learning about the local narrative. Pamela Monroe, director of the LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library System, has emphasized the importance of understanding local history, which is at the heart of this forthcoming event.
The lecture is free of charge and open to individuals of all ages, reflecting the library’s goal of fostering community connections and appreciation for local heritage. For more information about the lecture, or to access additional resources, community members can visit the Leon County engagement website at LeonCountyFL.gov/GetEngaged.
This event represents a valuable opportunity for Tallahassee residents to enhance their understanding of local history through interactive learning experiences, thereby fostering greater appreciation for the area’s rich cultural tapestry.
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Additional Resources
- Tallahassee.com: Explore Tallahassee’s History
- Wikipedia: Tallahassee
- On3: Earl Little Jr. on Facing Tide in Tallahassee
- Google Search: Tallahassee History
- Tallahassee.com: National Media Return
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tallahassee
- Tallahassee.com: Tallahassee Joining Protests
- Google News: Tallahassee Florida
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
