Founded in 2000, the Palm Coast Historical Society & Museum (PCHS) began with a clear and ambitious mission: to preserve the story of a young city still writing its history. Appointed by the first City Council, Co-Historians Margaret Davies and Art Dycke set out to collect and organize Palm Coast’s past, establish funding, and—like many early residents—find a place to call home. More than two decades later, that mission continues with the same passion and purpose.
The PCHS Museum serves as the living memory of Palm Coast, documenting its journey from its earliest inhabitants to the vibrant community it is today. Long before modern development, this land was home to Native American peoples who lived along its waterways and forests, leaving behind traces of their presence that still shape our understanding of the region. Generations later, in the late 1960s, the vision of ITT transformed thousands of acres into a master-planned community, laying the foundation for what would become the City of Palm Coast.
Through photographs, artifacts, documents, and firsthand accounts, the museum captures the real experiences of the people who built this city—from its earliest residents to the families who arrived during the ITT development era and beyond. Rather than focusing solely on dates and milestones, the museum highlights the everyday life of Palm Coast residents.
Visitors can explore how people lived, worked, and connected, gaining insight into the neighborhoods, schools, businesses, and traditions that shaped the city’s identity. Each exhibit tells a story not just of growth, but of community—of a place built by vision, resilience, and shared experience.
From recreational life and civic engagement to the evolution of local culture, the museum reflects the spirit of a city that continues to grow while honoring its roots. Palm Coast’s history is still being written, and the PCHS plays a vital role in ensuring those stories are preserved for future generations.
Whether you’re a longtime resident, a newcomer, or simply curious about the area, the Palm Coast Historical Society & Museum invites you to explore, learn, and become part of the ongoing story of Palm Coast.