A Special Historical Presentation by John McCarthy of Selby Gardens
Delicious History — Cooking Then and Now

Wednesday, December 2, 2026
2:00 to 3:30 p.m.
Enjoy Historical Refreshments

What was on Florida’s table 250 years ago?
In celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary, this illustrated program pairs historical anecdotes with “old Florida” recipes from the 1994 Cooking Then and Now cookbook produced at Historic Spanish Point. Discover what Floridians ate and drank 250 years ago.

MEET THE PRESENTER


John McCarthy
Regional Historian, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

A storyteller with a passion for Florida ecology and history, John spent 32 years with Sarasota County as an environmental specialist, county historian, and parks director. He joined Selby Gardens in 2020 when it adopted Historic Spanish Point.

DRAWINGS FOR FREE PASSES
Attendees can enter to win passes to Selby Gardens and Historic Spanish Point.

Click Here for Printable Flyer.

SEATING IS LIMITED!  TO RSVP …

Click Here for Online Registration. 

Or Use Contact Us on Our Website.



  • Loving, caring ownership and staff
  • Services catering to different lifestyle needs
  • Active Resident Council and Committees
  • Located in "Heart" of Downtown Sarasota
  • Regular Spiritual Opportunities
  • Flexible Transportation
  • Exercises, health diets, and access to an on-site Wellness Center
  • Weekly Happy Hour with Live Entertainment (We dance!)
  • Just Around the Corner From the Friendship Center
  • Rental Only Apartments (No buy-in required)
  • Choice of studio, one bedroom, or two bedroom Floor Plans
  • Able to transition into Assisted Living if needed