September 19, 2025

Orange County Regional History Center Celebrates 25 Years

News Summary

The Orange County Regional History Center in Orlando is marking its 25th anniversary with special events and offers from September 16 to 29. The center, established in a historic courthouse, is providing a 25% discount on new memberships and renewals, as well as discounts on select store items. A community donation campaign and a Watch Party event on September 19 featuring Orlando’s history are also part of the celebration. In related news, the local swan population at Lake Eola Park faces challenges as a recent incident highlights wildlife protection issues.

Orlando, Florida – The Orange County Regional History Center is commemorating its 25 years of preserving and sharing Central Florida’s stories with a series of events and offers running from September 16 to September 29. Located in a restored 1927 courthouse in downtown Orlando, the History Center has been a vital hub for understanding the region’s past since its opening on September 29, 2000. To mark this milestone, the center is providing a range of special offers, including a 25% discount on new memberships and membership renewals using the discount code 25OFF.

In addition to membership deals, the History Center is also encouraging community support through donations ranging from $25 to $2,500, which will aid the Historical Society of Central Florida in future endeavors. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy a 25% discount on select items in the History Center’s store. An exciting event lined up is the Florida Road Trip: Orlando Watch Party on September 19, featuring a free screening of an award-winning WUCF program that explores Orlando’s rich history.

Looking ahead, families can participate in the Trick or Treat Safe Zone event on October 12, which promises a variety of family-friendly activities, free admission, and shared candy between the History Center and the Orlando Public Library.

In a separate but related news incident, Lake Eola Park, a well-known spot in downtown Orlando, was recently marred by tragedy when a man with mental health issues was arrested for killing a young swan. The event, described by District 4 Commissioner Patty Sheehan as “heartbreaking,” underscores the ongoing challenges in protecting wildlife in the area. The individual faces serious charges, including third-degree grand theft and animal cruelty, and his bond is set at $7,000.

This is not the first occurrence of harm to the swan population at Lake Eola. In 2021, a man was arrested for stealing two baby swans from the lake. To counter these threats, the city has implemented various protective measures, including dedicated feeding and vaccination programs, security cameras, and the presence of park rangers to safeguard the swans. Over the past century, swans have become iconic to Orlando, with the first pair introduced in 1910, and the current population now includes around 60 swans of various species such as black swans, mute swans, trumpeter swans, whooper swans, and black-necked swans.

Billy the Swan, a notorious figure in the local swan community, gained fame for his violent behavior towards his mate, becoming a part of Orlando’s folklore. The health and well-being of the current swan population are monitored through the Lake Eola Swan Docent Program, managed by Andrew Marshall. This initiative focuses on community volunteer participation and regular health assessments to ensure the swans receive adequate care.

Local authorities advise the public on proper feeding practices to maintain the health of the swan population. Visitors to Lake Eola are encouraged to feed swans only leafy greens, such as romaine lettuce, using specially designed feeders, as bread and other treats can lead to health problems.

As the Orange County Regional History Center celebrates its important anniversary, the Lake Eola Park community remains vigilant in addressing the challenges posed to their symbolic swan population, underscoring the need for ongoing awareness and protection efforts.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER

ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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