Preserving Pensacola Since 1964
By the early 1960s, Pensacola had a rich history — and a growing need to protect it.
Historic buildings in some of the city’s oldest neighborhoods had fallen into disrepair or faced demolition. Seville Square was surrounded by a rusting chain-link fence and had become a dumping ground. Parts of Pensacola’s historic waterfront were difficult to access and neglected.
But across Pensacola and the country, attitudes toward historic places were beginning to change. Communities were recognizing that old homes, neighborhoods and public spaces weren’t simply remnants of the past. They were part of what made a place worth calling home.
It was against this backdrop that Mary Turner Rule founded the Pensacola Heritage Foundation in 1964. Today, it is the oldest historic preservation organization in the Pensacola area and is affiliated with the National and Florida Trusts for Historic Preservation.
Bird's-Eye View of Pensacola, 1885
Restoring Our Past
The Foundation began by putting preservation into action.
Its first project was the restoration of the historic Dorr House, one of downtown Pensacola’s oldest homes, overlooking Seville Square. The Foundation then turned its attention to Seville Square itself, helping transform the historic public space into the community gathering place Pensacolians know today.
The Foundation also restored the Barkley House, which served as its home for more than 15 years.
Its impact wasn’t limited to buildings. For 25 years, the Foundation helped make Seville Square a center of community life through Evenings in Olde Seville Square, a free summer concert series that brought thousands of people together every Thursday.
Our Work Continues
More than six decades later, the Pensacola Heritage Foundation remains committed to the mission that inspired its creation: preserving and protecting Pensacola’s heritage through advocacy, education and community involvement.
Our educational programs invite longtime residents and newcomers alike to discover something new about the place we call home. And through the involvement of our members and community, we continue working to ensure Pensacola’s history isn’t simply remembered — it remains part of its future.
Our Mission
To preserve and protect Pensacola’s heritage through advocacy, education and community involvement.
Get Involved
Discover Pensacola’s past through lectures, educational programs and opportunities designed to keep local history alive.
Support local preservation, connect with fellow history lovers and enjoy special programs and member benefits.