BASINGER — The Heritage Association of Highlands County is gearing up for the fourth annual two-day “Heritage Festival 2024” April 13 and 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pearce Homestead in Fort Basinger. The homestead is listed on the National Register of Historic places and located at the Highlands County/Okeechobee County line and the Kissimmee River. Take US 98 to CR 721 in Highlands County. Gates open at 10 a.m. Admission is $10 per car. Vendor opportunities are still available.

Events include the Southern Country Soul Band along with other local entertainment; the Cowboy Church on Sunday; Mountain Dew Cloggers; Kissimmee River Ecological Pontoon Boat Tours guided by Florida Atlantic University personnel; Craft and Food Vendors; Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution (black powder shoot); Kids Zone; Spinning and Quilt display in the Schoolhouse; House Tour; Demonstration of Pine Cone Quilting in the house; Colonial Period Fashion Show; Cracker Trail Riders and Cow Camp.

When the property was put up for sale by the South Florida Water Management District, Butch and Donna Thompson, of Venus, Florida purchased the 17 acres that was left of the once huge P4 Cattle Ranch.

The Thompsons wanted to share this historic site with the public. This two-day event is family friendly and emphasizes history.  Visitors will see massive oaks and palm trees and the 450 year old oak tree dedicated during Highlands County’s 100 year Anniversary in 2021. The home has a wraparound porch, with rockers and beautifully furnished. Many more improvements have been made since last year.

For information, email nfisk1949@gmail.com or visit the Heritage Association of Highlands County page on Facebook.