From the Apopka Historical Society
The Apopka Historical Society recognized local researcher and historian Terrell Hendrix for his outstanding work in preserving a vital part of the city’s heritage: the stories behind its historic cemetery plaques.
Related: Apopka celebrates Orange County's 200th birthday.
Hendrix, a longtime supporter and friend of the Apopka Museum, was honored for compiling a detailed binder containing 107 documented records of plaques found throughout Apopka’s cemeteries. Each entry captures a small but meaningful piece of the city’s history, ensuring the lives and legacies of those who came before us are not forgotten.
Maribel Brinkle, President of the Apopka Historical Society, and Terrell Hendrix.
This important undertaking was made possible thanks to the collaborative support of Mr. Britt Hayes, a retired veteran, and Dr. Phyllis M. Olmstead, who played key roles in helping bring the project to completion. The Historical Society praised their teamwork, calling it a reflection of the strong community spirit that defines Apopka.
The binder, now part of the Museum’s permanent library collection, is already drawing interest from genealogists, students, and residents eager to explore the city’s past.
Among its many entries is a plaque for Erastus L. Stewart, believed to be the oldest person buried in Apopka, who died in 1858. Visitors can also read the original speech delivered by Mayor John Land, Apopka’s iconic former leader and one of the museum’s founders, in which he honored the new marker placed for Dr. Ransom, a respected community figure buried in 1883, when Apopka was home to just 1,000 people.
The public is invited to visit the Museum to view this special new resource and explore the rich history it brings to life.
