The Florida Historical Commission (FHC) is set to welcome a new member after Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo appointed Okaloosa’s Parker Destin to the 11-member statewide commission.
- Created by the Legislature, the FHC aims to enhance public participation and involvement in the preservation and protection of Florida’s historic and archaeological sites and properties.
The Florida Historical Commission is responsible for reviewing and ranking Historic Preservation Grant applications, advising the Division of Historical Resources, and serving as Florida’s National Register Review Board to review and vote on proposed nominations to the National Register of Historic Places.
According to Destin, Florida’s rich history is the story of America, and it’s in our backyards. As a 6th-generation Floridian from a pioneering family with a passion for Florida’s history, he says he is honored and excited to serve on the commission and champion public engagement with Florida’s history, particularly in schools.
- “The bewilderment and confusion many adults have when trying to understand current national/world events is often because many people just never connected with history during their school years,” said Destin. “If we understand our history, we’ll understand the present, which gives us our best opportunity to make smart decisions for our future.”
Destin’s enthusiasm for preserving Florida’s history is evident in his lifelong dedication to collecting and cataloging historical documents and artifacts. He sees the opportunity to work with talented people serving on the FHC and assist the Legislature in prioritizing significant preservation resources as “beyond exciting.”
With his passion and expertise in Florida’s history, Destin is looking to make a positive impact on the commission and help ensure that Florida’s past remains a vital part of its present and future.
“Ultimately, I’m just a big history geek, and this is the equivalent of getting to play at the Super Bowl for me,” he added. “I’m honored and excited to have been selected for service by the Senate President.”
