When the telephone company converted to computer direct dialing in 1985 this last piece of vintage switchboard equipment was shut down. This was the only one in use in the state of Florida here in Avon Park at the time and was used to connect calls between Zolfo, Wauchula and Bowling Green. The Depot Museum is fortunate to have this piece of local history. Come fisit us and see our collection of early telephone equipment.

Taking reservations for public luncheons on our Silver Palm Dining Car. Check the event calendar.The menu is set for each monthly event but guaranteed to please. Prepared by our volunteer loving staff for the finest home cooked meals.Call or contact us now for reservations and enjoy  a dining experience from the past. Going fast!

Blueberry and Bluegrass Festival Donaldson Park, April 27, 2019 10am to 4 pm. Sponsored by Rotary Club of Avon Park.. Buy blueberry and plants, arts and crafts. Free entertainment and free parkiing.

The opening of highways to the southern states during the second decade of the twentieth century allowed newly mobile northerners and adventurous men and women from around the nation to see the unique sites and communities of Florida's interior, away from the more developed cities and destinations on the east and west coasts.

In 1915 the Dixie Highway Association and interested state officials began planning a network of paved roads that would eventually stretch from Miami to the northern border of the United States. A number of other auto trails including the Atlantic Highway, Lone Star Trail, and Mississippi River Scenic Highway also terminated in Florida. The number of automobile tourists visiting the state increased dramatically every year and Florida's rural areas and small towns began to change as well.

The Historical Society of Avon Park and the Depot Museum will be hosting a 100th year celebration on November 13, 2019 with an exhibition of many early tourist vehicles and a discussion of the history of the Tin Can Tourists by coordinators Forest and Jeri Bone from the Michigan based home of Tin Can Tourists.

Mark your calendars to attend this very special historical event.