2026 Ormond Beach Historical Society Speaker Series
All programs are held at the historic
Anderson-Price Building 42 N. Beach St., Ormond Beach
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* All programs are on Saturdays from 10-11 a.m. (unless otherwise noted)
* Coffee and refreshments start at 9:30 a.m.
* All programs are FREE to members /Non members - $10.00
* Plenty of free parking in lot adjacent to building
* Handicap entrance is at the rear of the building
January 24, 2026 ~ Letters from the Past Speaker: Kathy Fagen Jones Melette
One hundred fifty years ago, Ormond’s founding citizens, Billy Fagen and John Anderson, were close friends who often exchanged letters. Today, our speaker, Billy Fagen’s great-granddaughter and John Anderson’s great- grandniece, serves as the keeper of this remarkable correspondence. Drawing from these treasured letters, Kathy will share fascinating excerpts that offer a rare glimpse into daily life and the colorful personalities of those who helped shape our city’s beginnings. To bring history vividly to life, reenactors will portray these early citizens, giving voice and spirit to the words they
left behind.
February 28, 2026 ~ America’s First Speed Tournament Speaker: Dan Smith
Our resident racing expert, Dan Smith, will take us on a fascinating journey through the evolution of America’s first speed tournament — from its early days on the sands of Ormond Beach to the rise of big-time NASCAR racing. Discover how Ormond Beach truly earned its title as The Birthplace of Speed.
March 28, 2026 ~ Because THEY Loved…. Speaker: Marian Tomblin
Marian Tomblin believes that “if you know about your community, you care about your community.” She will share her personal journey of what inspired her to begin writing her beloved books, including The Mystery at Hotel Ormond, Where’s Capone’s Cash?, and Manatee Moon. Through selected excerpts, Marian will show how stories rooted in local history can inspire a sense of ownership in our community, our environment, and
our future—just as she does for the children of our area.
April 25, 2026 ~ Truly Off the Beaten Path Northeast FL Speaker: Zach Zacharias
Truly off the Beaten Path is a presentation that goes deep into the hinter lands of Florida and shows places that mostly locals are familiar. Discover natural wonders, scenic drives, and historic places not found in most of the books that promote ‘off the beaten path’ destinations in Northeast Florida. Discover Bio Lab Road, 9-Mile Road, Fort King National Landmark Ravine State Gardens, Howey in the Hills Mansion and other amazing locations all within a two-hour radius of Daytona Beach, Florida.
May 23, 2026 ~ History You Haven’t Heard Yet…
September 26, 2026 ~ WWII Comes to Ormond Beach Speaker: Will Ashmore
Wait until you hear what it was like living on the east coast during WWII! You will be quite surprised how close the war came to our shores.
October 24, 2026 ~ Memoirs of a Swamp Angel Speaker: Patti Surguine
Life in the 1920’s. Early Cone Family, built 3 Chimneys tree house early settlers (artifacts-cauldron) Life on the River, in the 1900’s 2 family benches in Casson Park
Some funding for these programs is provided through a grant from the Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.
