Main Page - Constitution Convention Museum State Park

Stone arch commemorating the first Florida Constitution.

Manager's Message

Welcome to historic Port St. Joe! This town is where statehood for the territory of Florida began.
This summer, we invite you to experience our museum and beautiful landscaped park located just outside the historic town. The location is popular with local residents and visitors alike. The museum and exhibits transport the visitor back in time when Florida was only a territory and elected leaders met to bring the territory into statehood with the introduction of a state constitution. You always have an open invitation to spend some time with us and experience a historical look at this great period in time.
- Brian Addison, Park Manager

Welcome to Constitution Convention Museum State Park

A boomtown founded in 1835, St. Joseph competed with Apalachicola as a trading port on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The original settlement lasted only nine years, but during its short life the city hosted Florida's first State Constitution Convention. The museum commemorates the work of the 56 territorial delegates who drafted Florida's first constitution in 1838. Following four more constitution conventions, Florida was finally admitted to the Union in 1845 as the 27th state. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through displays and exhibits of 19th century life in St. Joseph. Life-size, audio-animated mannequins in the replicated convention hall demonstrate the debate and process of drafting a state constitution. Museum tours are available Thursday-Monday from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Located in Port St. Joe, off U.S. 98.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Constitution Convention Museum State Park, please call 850-229-8029.

Hours of Operation

The museum visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.