Vision

Our founders Willard and Linda Smith first envisioned the settlement years before it became a reality. As people who lived the pioneer lifestyle, they realized with progress, the values and traditions were being lost, and wanted to preserve the pioneer traditions that formed the panhandle region. With a dedicated group of fellow supporters, volunteers and through perseverance, commitment and passion the settlement was officially started in July 1989. Through a land grant lease from Calhoun County, the settlement was able to move its first buildings and materials brought from around the region to preserve the pioneer lifestyle and stand as a living history experience to educate future generations. As a public educational institution the museum's vision is to:

Preserve the pioneer lifestyle for future generations
Encourage interest in the stories and ways of the past
Provide relevant and creative educational programs, performances, exhibits and visitor experiences
Create an inviting environment where ideas are shared and gathered.

Mission

The purpose of the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement Museum is to promote knowledge and understanding of the history of pioneer life in Calhoun County and the surrounding northwest Florida region, through its stewardship of the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement Community Foundation Endowment Fund as resources for education, use and appreciation. This purpose shall be fulfilled by preserving, maintaining and interpreting its site, structures and collections and making them available to the public for research, education programs, and appropriate private and community functions.