More than 700 Putnam County 4th-grade students toured the City’s Bronson-Mulholland House during the Putnam County Historical Society ‘Occupation of Palatka’ event on Friday. The annual event recreates the occupation of Palatka and the Bronson-Mulholland House by Union troops during the Civil War. Re-enactors portrayed the daily life of soldiers and civilians during that time for the students. The children were also guided through the historic house on Madison Street in the City. The event continued Saturday and Sunday for members of the public.
“We had a great weekend. I was happy to see the turnout of students from around the county. Bringing a little piece of Palatka history to life and educating visitors is what we do,” said Rob Mattson, organizer of the Occupation of Palatka 2023.
“There are not many places in Florida where you can visit a re-enactment of history on the place where the event took place. The Bronson-Mulholland House is one, and that makes it special.”
“I was very pleased and very happy about this year’s turnout,” he continued, “Next year marks the 160th anniversary of the occupation, so we have already started thinking about what we have to do to make next year’s even better. We bring Palatka’s history to life.”
Next year’s event will be held on Sept. 27,28 and 29.
