WORDS & PHOTOS: Wendy Dewhurst
What began over 85 years ago as an organization to boost morale and promote Spanish heritage is now a thriving society of generous members raising funds, spirits, and fellowship for our entire community.
The Hernando de Soto Historical Society (HDHS) brings together a dedicated group of volunteers from across our community. Through more than 20 committees, members contribute hundreds of hours to plan and produce events, many of which have earned regional and national recognition. Their fundraising efforts return over $50,000 annually to local causes, and their events generate an estimated $3 million in economic impact for Manatee County.
The HDHS, Inc., is a not-for-profit, community organization of volunteers who honor the historical significance of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto’s landing near the mouth of the Manatee River in May 1539. In 1938, the U.S. Government-appointed Swanton Commission identified Shaw’s Point, at the mouth of the Manatee River, as the most likely location where De Soto came ashore in Florida. A year later, the HDHS formed to produce the first-ever De Soto Heritage Festival. Since 1939, the organization’s membership has included many civic, government, and business leaders who serve the community in a wide range of roles.
“The success of the HDHS is due to the community partnerships that we create,” said HDHS 20-year member and current Executive Director Gus Sokos. “Without our community partners and sponsors, we could not do what we do. It is a full circle moment… Our members do this because we love our community and we love spreading smiles, joy, and laughter, and in return, our community supports us, which allows us to fund the Foundation and donate to a multitude of charities.”
The organization produces some of Manatee County’s largest entertainment events, including the De Soto Ball and the De Soto Grand Parade, billed as the largest nighttime parade in the Southeastern United States. Their fundraising efforts financially support their sister organization, the Conquistador Historical Foundation (CHF), which began in 1964. Each year, CHF donates to community charities, provides educational assistance, sponsors a student exchange program with Barcarrota, Spain (Bradenton’s Sister City), and funds scholarships to local students. Their royal family also makes frequent visits to local schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and civic organizations, and travels beyond the area to share the history of De Soto’s landing while introducing Manatee County as a place rich in cultural, historical, agricultural, and environmental diversity.
“This is my 49th year of volunteer service to the HDHS and CHF,” said Vernon DeSear. “My dedication and commitment to these organizations was instilled in me by Dr. W.D. Sugg, who founded the Society in 1939. He wanted young men and women to appreciate the significance of our place in history. This year, we will celebrate the 87th Anniversary of the festival that endured many changes over the years. Although there are many influences that impact the daily operations, history maintains the importance of honoring the legacy. Most citizens are only aware of the festival events and activities that focus on the community. I take great pride in the philanthropic mission of our foundation that annually grants funds to worthwhile partners in Manatee County.”
Just some of the organizations benefitting from the Foundation’s philanthropic endeavors are Adopt-A-Family, American Cancer Society, Beds 4 Kids, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys & Girls Clubs, Blue Knights Law Enforcement, Bradenton Blue Foundation, Community Haven, Dive Into Reading, Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, Emergency Services Memorial, Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Keep Manatee Beautiful, Kiwanis Kids Against Hunger, Manatee ARC, Miracle League of Manasota, PACE Center for Girls, Special Olympics of Florida, The Vision Foundation, Wreaths Across America, Lighthouse for the Blind, and Manasota Operation Troop Support.
“Our 130 members are here to support the community, which includes our 35 Crewe members who are the face of the Society,” said Jeff Nance, HDHS President. “The Crewe is out weekly, traveling to different festivals to promote the City of Bradenton, Manatee County, and the HDHS. We’re known for our pirate ship that we drive to various events throughout the year. The kids (and adults!) love the beads that we hand out, and there’s nothing better than watching the smiles that light up on their faces when we stop and take photos. It’s priceless, and the energy is contagious!”
CHF Board Chairman, Todd Hubbard, was born and raised in Manatee County and has been a part of the organization for over twenty years. “The CHF was formed mainly to separate our finances from our charitable operations so we could raise funds and save money to support the community in perpetuity,” said Todd. “At the HDHS, our mission goes far beyond producing events—it’s about service, education, community connection, and leaving a lasting impact on Manatee County. Philanthropy remains at the heart of who we are. Through the Conquistador Historical Foundation, the Society proudly awarded grants to several local nonprofits this year, continuing a tradition of charitable giving that has contributed more than $1 million to Manatee County since 2000.”
Some of those grant awardees include:
- Journey’s by Grace – $1,000
- Stillpoint Mission – $1,500
- Beds for Kids – $3,500
- Denis V. Cooper Foundation – $3,500
- Bradenton Blue Foundation – $5,000
- Defibrillate Manatee – $5,000
- The Vision Foundation – $17,000
- Shuckin’ Good Cause – $27,118.88
In addition to these grants, the Society also provides:
- $10,000 in scholarships to the Queen’s Court
- Funds a student ambassador cultural exchange program with Barcarrota, Spain
- Provides a mentorship program with young girls and boys ages 7–10
COMING SOON: Conquistador Square: A Vision for the Future
To honor the past while embracing the future, the HDHS is proudly moving toward the development of Conquistador Square—a long-envisioned project that will serve as a cultural, historical, and community cornerstone for generations to come.
In order to envision the future, one must have a place where history is preserved, heritage is sustained, and your heart completes the dream. A place where future generations can visit so that they never forget the past. A place where one can hold weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and special events.
