Historic Field Manor on Merritt Island Gears Up for Major Fundraiser Founders’ Day on April 4

By Space Coast Daily // January 30, 2026

Field Manor’s mission centers on the conservation and interpretation of one of Brevard County’s oldest historic sites

Field Manor, the historic 19th-century homestead and museum perched on the shores of the Indian River Lagoon, is preparing to welcome hundreds of visitors to its annual Founders’ Day celebration on April 4—a pivotal fundraiser aimed at supporting ongoing historic preservation efforts.

BREVARD COUNTY • MERRITT ISLAND, FLORIDA — Field Manor, the historic 19th-century homestead and museum perched on the shores of the Indian River Lagoon, is preparing to welcome hundreds of visitors to its annual Founders’ Day celebration on April 4—a pivotal fundraiser aimed at supporting ongoing historic preservation efforts.

The event, one of two flagship fundraisers hosted by Field Manor each year, is expected to draw nearly 600 attendees to the beloved Merritt Island landmark, where families and community members alike will gather for an afternoon of music, food, tours, and celebration against the backdrop of Florida’s scenic riverfront.

Field Manor’s mission centers on the conservation and interpretation of one of Brevard County’s oldest historic sites.

The property includes 45 acres of groves and farmland, as well as the original Field family homes built in 1880—structures that remained occupied by descendants until 2013 and now serve as a museum dedicated to pioneer life on the Space Coast.

“Founders’ Day is a cornerstone of our fundraising efforts,” said Korinn Braden, Executive Director of Field Manor. “Every dollar raised goes directly toward preserving this irreplaceable piece of local history for future generations.”

THEN: The Field family left Bibb County, Georgia, in 1867/68 to make a new life in Florida. They took advantage of the Homestead Act of 1862. A true pioneer, JR Field ‘homesteaded’ twice for a total of 320 acres at $1.25 per acre. His brother, Sam, had 160 acres, and together they founded Indianola on Merritt Island. Many generations enjoyed life in the groves, the river, and the sense of community. And through its preservation, Field Manor will continue to tell the story of early pioneer life in Florida.

A Celebration Along the Lagoon

The festivities will unfold along Field Manor’s shoreline, where attendees can bring beach chairs and blankets to enjoy live music from the popular band Hot Pink.

The family-friendly event will also feature Food trucks offering local fare, a variety of vendor booths, guided tours of the historic museum home, a 50/50 raffle with prizes throughout the afternoon, community engagement activities, and more.

Organizers plan to create a festive, picnic-style atmosphere that celebrates both local heritage and community spirit—echoing traditions established by the Field family more than a century ago.

Historically, Founders’ Day has honored the family’s legacy of hospitality and pioneer resilience, dating back to annual picnics held by the Fields after their arrival on Merritt Island in 1868.

Preserving a Pioneer Legacy

Field Manor sits on land homesteaded by the Field family under the Homestead Act and has since become a touchstone for local history.

The main house, packing house, and surrounding acreage represent tangible links to early Florida settler life; artifacts and exhibits offer visitors insight into agriculture, daily life, and community development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Braden emphasized that community support is essential to Field Manor’s continued educational mission, which includes workshops, lectures, field trips, teas, and heritage programs throughout the year.

“Our work goes beyond preservation—it’s about connecting people to the stories and culture that shaped this region,” she said.

Field Manor is currently seeking sponsors to help underwrite the cost of Founders’ Day and ensure its ongoing success. A range of sponsorship levels is available, with benefits that include brand visibility to hundreds of attendees and a valued role in supporting local cultural heritage.

For businesses or individuals interested in sponsorship, museum tours, or learning more about Field Manor’s programs, CLICK HERE.