Carrie Clarke Day
The society participates in the annual Carrie Clarke Day festival. The Clarkes were one of the early families in Orange Park and Carrie Clarke was involved in many social activities in our town. The Clarke home and surrounding property was purchased by the Town of Orange Park and now serves as a community park. The Clarke House now serves as our meeting place. Carrie Clarke Day is held each March in Clarke House Park. Come join us for tours of the Clarke House and learn more about the history of our town.
Moonlight on Magnolia
One of the Society's popular events is Moonlight on Magnolia. In October, the public is invited for a tour of Orange Park's Magnolia Cemetery where they learn more about our town's history through "visits" with former residents as portrayed by Society members and other members of our community. This is a fun, family event and a great way to learn about our local history.
Veterans Day Observance
On November 11, 2011, the Historical Society of Orange Park conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for a new Veterans Memorial at Magnolia Cemetery. One year later, with the generous support of the community and the Town of Orange Park, we dedicated the new memorial. Each year on November 11th, the Society hosts a Veterans Day ceremony to honor our service members and the important role they play in our lives. Since 2013, the Society has also sponsored an essay contest in conjunction with the Veterans Day ceremony. Please visit our Veterans Memorial Page to learn more about the memorial, our annual ceremony and our essay contest.
Hometown Holiday
In December the 100-year-old Clarke House is open for tours decorated in circa 1920-style. Guests learn about the early residents of Orange Park and local celebrities as historical re-enactors, stationed inside and around the Clarke House in period clothes, tell their stories. The Town of Orange Park offers festive lights throughout Clarke House Park to give it the added sparkle of the season. A shopping village, entertainment and activities for children are all on hand for a true community holiday celebration.
