Tucked away in the charming crossroads community of Barberville, the Barberville Pioneer Settlement offers a unique, immersive journey into Florida’s past. Located in West Volusia County, this living history museum invites guests to step into the daily lives of 19th- and early 20th-century Floridians—complete with hands-on experiences, historic structures, and heritage-filled events.
EXPLORE A VILLAGE FULL OF STORIES
Set beneath a canopy of moss-draped oaks, the campus features 19 preserved historic buildings, including the 1919 Central Barberville Schoolhouse Museum, Pottery Shed, Turpentine Commissary, and the Astor Bridge Tender’s House. Together, they form a historical village that vividly illustrates pioneer life in rural Florida.
Visitors can explore the grounds through self-guided or docent-led tours, interact with thousands of artifacts, and watch traditional crafts in action—like blacksmithing, weaving, candle-making, and more. Plan for at least 1–2 hours, but many stay longer to take it all in.
CELEBRATE FLORIDA’S HERITAGE ALL YEAR LONG
The Barberville Pioneer Settlement hosts several annual events that combine history with music, crafts, and community fun:
FIRE & ICE: CHILI COOK-OFF & ICE CREAM CHURN-OFF (EARLY SEPT)
Sample and vote for your favorite homemade chili (with a $10 tasting fee) and cool down with hand-churned, old-fashioned ice cream. This event blends flavor and frontier flair for the whole family.
FALL COUNTRY JAMBOREE (FIRST SATURDAY IN NOVEMBER)
A lively day of folk music, craft demonstrations, and artisan shopping, this beloved festival features live performances on the porches and stages of the historic village.
A FLORIDA CHRISTMAS REMEMBERED (EARLY DEC)
Celebrate the holidays with cookie decorating, live music, craft demos, and costumed interpreters sharing stories of Christmas traditions from Florida’s past—plus a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Whether you’re a history buff, music lover, or just looking for something different to do with the family, the Barberville Pioneer Settlement is a must-visit destination.
Learn more at PioneerSettlement.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for event updates.
WEST VOLUSIA COUNTY VISITOR CENTER
116 W. New York Avenue in Downtown DeLand, FL
VisitWestVolusia.com
Pictures by: Kelsey Walters
I was born in Barberville in 1932.. went to first grade in school house. I missed the photo there because I was sick. I lived there at my grandparents ( Seymores) about a mile from schoolhouse..we walked to school. My first grade teacher was Mrs Lemon, Mr Lemon had a store there. I am 92… don’t think I will get back. I have great memories of growing up in Barberville.