Historical Society of Penney Farms

The Historical Society of Penney Farms collects, preserves, researches, and interprets the history of Penney Farms. Our collections are held in trust for the use and education of the public.  They are primarily composed of documentary and archival materials with a focus on J.C. Penney, the community, its people, places, and events. Information at the TOWN OF PENNY FARMS HISTORIC MUSEUM is available through publications, programs, and exhibits.

Welcome To Historical Society of Penney Farms

Our Mission

The Historical Society of Penney Farms was organized to educate the community about the rich and dynamic history of Penney Farms, which was founded in 1926. The society collects, preserves and displays printed materials of historical value and facilitates educational and historical events. The Historical Society of Penney Farms is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Educating Our Community

In 1926, department store pioneer J. C. Penney founded the community of Penney Farms. He planned to develop an experimental farming village. The state of Florida incorporated the town in 1927. The real estate decline and stock market crash caused Penney to scale back his ambitions to a community for retired ministers in honor of his father.