Permanent Exhibits & Train Cars

The Lake Wales History Museum permanent historical exhibits are all self-guided, and display artifacts, images and documents about the the natural history of the Lake Wales Ridge beginning with Florida’s native people to the development of Lake Wales’ railroad, industry and residents of the 20th century. Three additional historic buildings are included on the property – a 1920 Historic Crystal Lodge, which was the original site of the Lake Wales Women’s Club, first library and later the chamber of commerce; the original 1916 Seaboard Air Line Freight Station; and, the 1920 Historic Stuart House, built by area pioneer E.C. Stuart.  Guests may also visit the three original train cars including the 1926 Seaboard Air Line Railroad Caboose, 1886 Pullman-style Office Car, and the 1944 US Army Locomotive Engine.

Changing Exhibits

Creating Community Through Quilts & Art by the Lake Wales History Museum

January 19 – May 15, 2021

The Lake Wales History Museum will display its permanent collection of historical and modern quilts and artwork.  The act of making quilts, displaying them in the museum, and showcasing local places of Lake Wales in artwork was a traditional way the Lake Wales History Museum connected with the community.  Quilting itself was created through quilting bees, or groups of women gathered to make a quilt.  Works by local artists of historical places will be paired with the museum’s quilt collection.  Equally important to Lake Wales’ sense of community are the paintings by artists that capture local places near and dear to our history.

Beaches, Creatures & Cowboys: Florida Movie Posters” by the Museum of Florida History

May 25 – September 25, 2021

Movie producers have been making films in Florida almost since the dawn of the industry. For a short time in the early twentieth century, Florida even rivaled California as a place for movie making. This exhibit presents a selection of colorful, eye-catching posters that advertised films.  The posters and lobby cards in this exhibit depict some of Florida's most famous films from the early 1920s to the present.

Voices of Lake Wales by the Lake Wales History Museum

October 5, 2021 – January 8, 2022

Experience the stories, lessons, and cultural history of Lake Wales’ African American community.   Hear the retelling of personal accounts of living in a segregated community, explore the cultural experiences, and learn about the individuals who have made a difference and shaped the history of Lake Wales from the past 100 years.