- Mainstreet Daily News is hosting a free event called "Forgotten Front – 250 Year Anniversary" on April 21 at Matheson History Museum in Gainesville.
- The event features scholars discussing Florida's Revolutionary War history, highlighting its loyalty to King George III and territorial changes after 1763.
Mainstreet Daily News is inviting the community to “Forgotten Front – 250 Year Anniversary,” a presentation that will explore Florida’s little-known history during the Revolutionary War, at the Matheson History Museum on Tuesday, April 21.
The free event will run from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at 513 E. University Ave. in Gainesville. Click here to reserve a spot and meet with fellow enthusiasts to enjoy a fun evening exploring stories that shaped Florida’s past.
“Part of our mission at Mainstreet is education, so this event is a perfect fit,” Mainstreet Daily News Publisher J.C. Derrick said. “We are excited to help bring this free, informative discussion to the community to shed light on this important part of Florida’s history.”
The event will feature engaging talks from scholars Dr. Olivia Barnard, Dr. Jon Rehm and Dr. David Silkenat, who will explore the often-forgotten perspectives and local impacts of the Revolutionary era.
According to the event press release, “On July 4, 2026, the United States of America will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“In 1763, France, Britain and Spain signed the Treaty of Paris at the end of the French and Indian War. As part of the treaty, Spain gave up Florida to Britain in exchange for Havana. The British then divided Florida into two territories: East Florida and West Florida, governed from St. Augustine and Pensacola, respectively. East and West Florida were the only two southern colonies to remain loyal to King George III.”
Parking is available in the museum’s parking lot on the east side of the building. For weekend and evening events, parking is also available at the Alachua County Public Schools District Office and next door at the Law Office of Attorneys Folds & Walker.
Funding for this program was provided through a grant from Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.