ABOVE: In 1974, Channel 24 – WMFE-TV, participated in the Pine Castle Pioneer Days Parade. The royal blue dune buggy was the float with signs promoting the station’s first Auction – November 18-23, 1974. The driver is Oliver Peters and (don’t tell CTW) I am Big Bird! It was a harrowing ride, trying to keep my balance on the back of the dune buggy with giant bird feet and hands! Certainly a day to remember!
ABOVE: I worked as the Promotion Assistant and Traffic Manager for WMFE-TV for a brief period in the 1970s when it was located in Mid Florida Tech at 2908 West Oak Ridge Road, Orlando, 32809.
As part of the team, I rode in the Pioneer Days Parade on 2 November 1974 as “Big Bird” driven in a dune buggy by my husband Oliver Peters. This is the certificate of appreciation given to WMFE-TV for our participation in the event. The station gave it to me since my husband and I were the actual participants.
In 1973, the Pine Castle Center for the Arts created the Pioneer Days as a community event to celebrate the rich heritage of our forefathers. The Pine Castle United Methodist Church assumed the role of organizers of the event when the Pine Castle Center of the Arts ceased to exist. The Pine Castle community believe this heritage must be remembered and passed on to future generations.
The Pioneer Days Family Festival is a two day event offering family friendly activities and entertainment. Exhibitors demonstrate crafts that were part of pioneers’ everyday life. Festival goers learn about basket making, blacksmithing, cane cooking, pottery making, quilting, spinning, weaving, wood carving and more.
A big part of the celebration in 1973 and still a favorite today is the Pioneer Days parade! Pine Castle residents line the street and many come in period costumes!
If you were there, join the discussion!
Pine Castle Pioneer Days 1974
In 1974, Channel 24 - WMFE-TV, participated in the Pine Castle Pioneer Days Parade. The royal blue dune buggy was the float...
1974 Pine Castle Pioneer Days Certificate of Appreciation
I worked as the Promotion Assistant and Traffic Manager for WMFE-TV for a brief period in the 1970s when it was located...
When Fort Gatlin was built in 1838 cabins began to cluster around the fort, making what was later to become Historic Pine Castle the birthplace of Orlando. Pioneer Days is helping to celebrate this very important history.
The event in 2020 was fabulous and the Pine Castle Historical Society was pleased to take part by sponsoring a History Tent with excellent speakers.