SUBJECT
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Clerk & Comptroller Stacy Butterfield to present the restoration, preservation, and digitization of the historic Cattle Brand Book.
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DESCRIPTION
The historic Cattle Brand Book highlights Polk County’s agricultural roots and includes cattle brand records maintained by the Clerk’s office from the 1880s through the 1940s.
The Clerk’s office recently completed a preservation project to have the books professionally restored and repackaged, helping protect the records for future generations.
A replica book is also being donated to the Polk County History Center, providing residents and visitors with the opportunity to experience and explore this unique piece of Polk County history in person.
The new book debuts in the History Center’s newest exhibit, From Criollo to Cracker: Florida Cow Culture - An American Story. The exhibit’s grand opening is next Tuesday, and we encourage everyone to visit this summer to support and experience the History Center’s work.
In addition, the collection has been digitized to expand public access and allow residents, students, researchers, and community members to explore the records online.
The presentation highlights an intergovernmental preservation and public access effort between the Clerk and the Board of County Commissioners focused on protecting historically significant public records and expanding community access to Polk County history. The project demonstrates the Clerk’s role as custodian of historical records, while also supporting educational and cultural initiatives through collaboration with the Polk County History Center.
RECOMMENDATION
FISCAL IMPACT
No fiscal impact.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Stacy M. Butterfield, CPA
Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller