Havana History & Heritage Museum

Step back in time at the Havana History & Heritage Museum, one of Gadsden County’s most treasured cultural destinations and the proud keeper of Havana’s remarkable story. Operated by the Havana History & Heritage Society (HHHS) — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2017 — the museum is housed within the historic Planters Exchange Building at 204 2nd Street NW in downtown Havana, Florida, a National Register of Historic Places site that stands as a living monument to the region’s extraordinary past.

At the heart of the museum’s identity is Havana’s legendary role as the “Shade Tobacco Capital of the World.” For generations, the rich soils and unique climate of Gadsden County made it the premier growing region for shade-grown tobacco, the prized wrapper leaf of America’s finest cigars. The museum’s exhibits bring this fascinating era vividly to life — featuring artifacts, equipment, photographs, books, archival records, and personal stories that document the tobacco industry’s sweeping influence on Havana’s economy, architecture, agriculture, and community identity. Visitors will also discover the broader tapestry of Havana’s history through exhibits covering religion, education, athletics, the arts, Native American heritage, and the civic organizations and volunteer groups that have shaped the town across generations.

The museum is a place of active preservation and community engagement — hosting rotating exhibits such as the Miccosukee Indian Exhibit, presentations, programs, and events throughout the year that educate visitors and inspire local pride. Guided tours of the Planters Exchange National Registered Historic Site are available by appointment, offering an immersive deep-dive into the history and heritage that make Havana one of North Florida’s most distinctive communities. The Society’s Voices of Havana oral history project further documents the personal stories of those who lived and built this remarkable place.

Currently undergoing an exciting multi-phase expansion and restoration, the museum’s historic site also features a 5,000-square-foot auditorium and exhibit hall, an outdoor pavilion, conference rooms, and office spaces available for community rental — making it a meaningful venue for meetings, events, and special gatherings. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious day-tripper from Tallahassee, or a Gadsden County local with deep roots in the region, the Havana History & Heritage Museum offers a rich, one-of-a-kind window into the soul of this remarkable small town.

Open Fridays 11:00am–3:00pm, Saturdays 10:00am–5:00pm, and Sundays 1:00pm–5:00pm, with guided tours available by appointment. Free to visit and supported entirely by donations and memberships — your visit directly supports the ongoing preservation of Gadsden County’s irreplaceable history.