By Barbara Palmgren
The Preamble to the Declaration of Independence states:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
This being a special year to celebrate all year long, each month I will submit articles about key events happening around our county. This entire year, we celebrate the birthday of a document that changed our nation and the world. Okaloosa County has already begun plans for several large events to honor this historic moment. The 2026 America 250th Commission participants meet twice a month to coordinate events. Two such events are a grand parade in downtown Crestview at 4 p.m. on May 9 and a gala VIP dinner and drone show on June 12 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Rigdon Center in Fort Walton Beach.
This month, I highlight a special tribute at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida. This local history museum is a special place. Tucked away in old downtown Valparaiso, it houses memorabilia and artifacts from all of Northwest Florida. So as not to forget these artifacts, a display case was moved from another part of the museum to the new exhibit hall. It contains artifacts found on Eglin Air Force Base property from the time of and before the Revolution, including tools and pottery.
The rest of the exhibit is a history lesson come alive for residents and visitors. Events, places and key patriot heroes are showcased on large panels designed by CJ Signs, with words and pictures taking us back to the time before and including the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In addition, a tent, movie and Youth Corner provide more visual and hands-on experiences for visitors.
In March, financial contributors to this exhibit were honored with a reception at the museum. A special thank you to Magnolia Grill and Tom Rice for providing delicious appetizers and desserts for the occasion. Each contributor received a “Betsy Ross” pin and an in-depth presentation of the exhibit by Dr. Marie Hallion, curator of the exhibit. Dr. Hallion is the chair of the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida.
