Local History Hall

Upper East Wing – Celebrating Stuart’s Centennial and Early Heritage

Step into the Upper East Wing of the Elliott Museum and explore a space that honors more than 100 years of Stuart’s history while highlighting the deep roots of Florida’s indigenous peoples. This exhibit brings together illustrated pamphlets, rare documents, and personal treasures from our county’s pioneer families, alongside a very special collection dedicated to the Seminole/Miccosukee Tribes of Florida and a Library of History to be explored.

Here, newly displayed works by local artists Jim Hutchinson, Curt Whiticar and more capture the beauty of Stuart’s waterways and the dignity of character of its people through portraiture, telling of the creativity, determination and resilience that shaped life along the Treasure Coast. Their art connects past and present, complementing stories of early settlers and Native traditions that have endured generations. Photography of early pioneer life compliment a hand-curated selection of informative texts on early Stuart life.

The Local History Hall is the visual preview of one of the Historical Society of Martin County’s most treasured spaces, the Sandra and Thomas Thurlow, Jr Library and Archives, where you can immerse yourself in historical reference books on any subject touched upon within our museum. If you see something on the floor that sparks your curiosity, there will be a reference book in the library to gain a deeper understanding on that topic. From cars and maritime history to baseball and an incredible selection of both fine art and folk craft profiles. There are many books in our Florida History section that are no longer in print. 

As you wander through the Local History Hall and the galleries contained there, you’ll discover how artists, pioneer families, and Indigenous clans intersected in shaping this region’s identity. From handcrafted artifacts to vibrant paintings, philanthropy and shared commitment, every piece invites you to reflect on the century of growth and cultural threads that bind us together.