Turner Bungalow Collections Exhibit opens at Heritage Village

More than 5,000 artifacts bring to life a Clearwater family’s legacy

Pinellas County celebrated the grand opening of the Turner Bungalow Collections Exhibit on May 7 at Heritage Village in Largo. The exhibit showcases more than 5,000 personal artifacts from the Turner family, displayed inside a meticulously restored 1915 Craftsman-style home.

Donated in 2014 by Geraldine “Jere” Turner, a former professor at St. Petersburg College, the home and its contents offer an intimate look at life in mid-20th century Pinellas County. The exhibit is interpreted to reflect the 1940s, a time of change and growth for the Turner family.

“This exhibit is more than a window into the past—it’s a bridge connecting us to the people and stories that helped shape our community,” said Pinellas County Commission Chairman Brian Scott. “We’re deeply grateful to the Turner family for preserving and sharing this legacy.”

Dozens of Turner family members from across the country attended the grand opening celebration, which featured guided tours of the bungalow led by Heritage Village staff and volunteers.

“If my ancestors could see this bungalow today, I think they would be thrilled,” said Amber Turner Shad, cousin of Geraldine and Amber Turner. “They would be so excited to have this home back in its heyday. It feels like I could come around the corner and see Jere sitting down at a desk and writing out a note.”

The home itself was relocated from Clearwater to Heritage Village in 2014, with restoration work completed in 2023. Original features such as wood floors, windows and fireplace remain intact. Artifacts include vintage furniture, books, toys, family letters and musical instruments—many on display for the first time.

“The Turner Bungalow is a truly special addition to Heritage Village,” said Monica Drake, historical museum operations manager. “We are honored to steward both the home and the family’s personal collection, which brings local history to life in a way that’s both personal and powerful.”

The exhibit is open to the public during regular Heritage Village hours: Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are welcome.

For more information, visit heritagevillagefl.org.