Vero Heritage, Inc.

By some historic standards we would be considered upstarts! 

Our building is only 76 years old, but then Indian River County is a mere 86 years old, the city of Vero Beach is 91 years old.  Put us up against sites in Virginia or New York and we look downright new.  But what we do have is an integral place in the history of the city and county, we've been there for the community at every turn in one way or another.

We provided a place for residents to meet, a place for special events, we served our country as a servicemen's center during World War II, returned to "civilian life" after and continued to serve both locals and visitors alike.  We didn't differentiate between "natives" and "come-heres", we became a part of everyone's routine in Vero Beach.  Despite the different names applied to the building (Community Building, Physical Arts Center, Heritage Center) it remained at the center of historic downtown Vero Beach, always a part of the many activities in the city and county.

In 1991 the City Manager declared that the only thing holding the building together was "termites holding hands" - he exaggerated somewhat!  Our service was far from over.  Saved by a group of local residents, and "snowbirds" as well, the building was renovated and restored to active use for the city and county.  Vero Heritage, Inc. was established specifically to maintain and operate what is now known as the Heritage Center for everyone's enjoyment.  Part of the restoration included installing a small exhibit on the one industry that defines Indian River County to so many people…citrus fruit.  Everyone knows us for oranges and grapefruit!  With photos, equipment and artifacts we "squeeze" all that we can into this display about people and places in our local history with the Indian River Citrus Museum.

The main hall of the building, at 2900 square feet, is now used for both public and private events. Rental of the main hall provides income for operations.  How many times have we had a mother of the bride come in to arrange a reception only to have her comment that "I took gymnastics lessons in this building when it was the Physical Arts Center!"  The family tradition of using this wonderful historic facility continues.  With a capacity of 200 people it is a wonderful venue for many, many activities including our own fundraising events!  And the yearly Hibiscus Festival, which draws thousands of visitors to downtown, allows us to show the building to so many more people. 

An early part of this county and this city - working under more than one name - but always there and always serving.  The Heritage Center deserves to continue to be a vital, integral part of Vero Beach and Indian River County.

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