Preservation, Education, Research & Interpretation
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Our mission rests on the interconnected pillars of Research, Teaching, and Extension that are at the core of the University of Florida. Our research goes beyond architecture, archaeology, and history, as we support faculty and student work in heritage tourism, sea level rise, resiliency, urban landscapes, art history, museum studies, preservation law, oral history, materials engineering, communications, journalism, and more. Many of our projects also provide experiential learning and hands-on opportunities for students, connecting rigorous research with meaningful education and the stewardship of Florida’s historic treasures.
A Preservation Story Stewarded by the University of Florida
We work hand-in-hand with the University of Florida to preserve and interpret the St. Augustine’s historic treasures. This partnership allows us to care for 23 properties and 38 buildings, from colonial-era structures to reconstructions and interpretive sites, ensuring they remain vibrant parts of the city’s living history.
Our work extends beyond preservation. Faculty and students from a wide range of disciplines to conduct research that deepens understanding of these historic sites. Many projects also provide hands-on learning experiences for students, giving them the chance to explore, document, and interpret St. Augustine’s past in meaningful, practical ways.
Through this collaboration, we combine academic expertise with on-the-ground stewardship, making historic sites accessible and engaging for the public while supporting research and education. Visitors can explore preserved buildings, participate in programs, and see how scholarship and preservation come together to tell the stories of Florida’s oldest city.
Preservation Institute
Preservation Through Education & Research
Our Projects