Vision

Our founders Willard and Linda Smith first envisioned the settlement years before it became a reality. As people who lived the pioneer lifestyle, they realized with progress, the values and traditions were being lost, and wanted to preserve the pioneer traditions that formed the panhandle region. With a dedicated group of fellow supporters, volunteers and through perseverance, commitment and passion the settlement was officially started in July 1989. Through a land grant lease from Calhoun County, the settlement was able to move its first buildings and materials brought from around the region to preserve the pioneer lifestyle and stand as a living history experience to educate future generations. As a public educational institution the museum's vision is to:

• Preserve the pioneer lifestyle for future generations
• Encourage interest in the stories and ways of the past
• Provide relevant and creative educational programs, performances, exhibits and visitor experiences
• Create an inviting environment where ideas are shared and gathered.

Mission

The mission of the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement is to acquire, document, research, preserve and restore buildings, artifacts and tools that were used in work and daily life of the pioneers of the Florida panhandle region. These collections are used to educate and share the experience of pioneer lifestyles and values with future generations.