HISTORY
HERITAGE
HEART

The Hernando de Soto Historical Society is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1939 and consists of volunteer members who foster and facilitate an appreciation of Manatee County’s Spanish – American heritage. Through fundraising events and sponsorships we are able to provide educational opportunities and donate to local charities, organizations and individuals. 

cornhole

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Our annual Cornhole Tournament is a great way to support our fundraising efforts and participate in a low impact tournament.  We have two divisions. Our “skilled division” is $60 per team of two. This division is for the more serious players which allows sanctioned organizations to bring their own boards and bags and compete for a cash prize (based on total number of participants).  Our “fun division” is $40 per team of two, is designed for the players that want to show up and have fun using De Soto boards and equipment. 

AMIGOS TAPAS FUNDRAISER

The Tapas event was created as a fundraising source for the Amigos de Barcarrota, a Society committee that host a delegation of “friends” from our sister city in Spain that visit Bradenton each year during the Heritage Festival. This group houses our guests in their own homes, and daily entertains them by visiting Manatee County attractions, beaches, golf courses, and of course attending all of festival week’s events. We hope that you will join us for an exclusive affair with Amigos, vino, and an abundance of Tapas.

OUR EVENTS

HIGHLIGHTS

  • $50,000 ANNUAL DONATIONS
  • 3 MILLION DOLLARS OF ECONOMIC STIMULUS
  • PROVIDE EDUCATION ON FLORIDA – SPANISH HERITAGE
  • SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENTS
  • STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM
  • MAINTAINS MUSEUM FOR SPANISH CULTURE
  • 52 YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH BARCARROTA SPAIN
  • 2,500 VOLUNTEER HOURS ANNUALLY