Florida's "Useable Past": The Sunshine State and the Index of American Design

Florida observed its 500th anniversary in 2013. To mark this august occasion appropriately, the state's Division of Cultural Affairs encouraged museums and other organizations across the peninsula to mount projects that highlighted Florida's history. This exhibition specifically highlighted the Florida component of the Index of American Design. Combining documentary photographs, handsome watercolor renderings, and existing material objects, the project illuminated the role of Floridians in this initiative of the Works Progress Administration.

About Viva Florida 500

Viva Florida 500 is a statewide initiative led by the Florida Department of State (FDOS), under the leadership of Governor Rick Scott, to highlight the 500th anniversary in 2013 of the arrival of Juan Ponce de Leὀn to La Florida in 1513. While Florida’s history dates back more than 12,000 years with the American Indians, Spain’s claim in 1513 began a new era. In 2013 Florida will mark 500 years of history and diverse cultural heritage – a claim no other state can make – and the place where the world’s cultures began to unite and transform into the great nation we know today as the United States of America. Viva Florida 500 will take place year-round in 2013 and its many partners are planning more than 150 events statewide. The goal is to promote 500 years of Florida’s history, its people, places and cultural achievements and this important milestone in American and Florida history. Learn more by visiting www.fla500.com and www.vivaflorida.org.