Living History Day

On Thursday, July 2, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Heart of the Park will host Living History Day, presented in partnership with the City of Ocala, Fort King Heritage Foundation, and Silver River Museum. This immersive, family-friendly experience will bring history to life through living history exhibits, demonstrations, and interactive educational experiences for all ages. At 11:30 AM, nationally recognized historian Dr. Roger Smith will present “The 14th Colony: The American Revolution’s Best Kept Secret,” offering a fascinating look into a lesser-known chapter of Revolutionary War history. Dr. Smith holds a Ph.D. in Early American History and Atlantic World Studies from the University of Florida and has served as a consultant for AMC’s TURN, appeared in PBS historical documentaries, and earned national recognition for his work in Revolutionary War education.

The programming continues that same evening on Thursday, July 2, at 5:30 PM at Marion Theatre, where the community is invited to a free historic film showing of The Crossing, presented in partnership with Marion Theatre. Starring Jeff Daniels as George Washington, the acclaimed film recounts the pivotal crossing of the Delaware River and offers a dramatic cinematic portrayal of one of the most defining moments of the American Revolution. Admission is free and open to the public.