Mission:

Our Mission Statement is to discover, conserve, preserve and memorialize the history and architecture of Ocala and Marion County, Florida; a citizens action organization for the purpose of conservation and preservation.

History:

The Historic Ocala Preservation Society, commonly referred to as  HOPS, was formed in 1980 by founders Armand Lovell and Shirley Lovell Ritch and Bob and June Jaycox who were interested in stopping a planned four lane roadway through what is now known as the Ocala Historic District.

HOPS, a 'not for profit' organization, has today grown to more than 300 members and is governed by a 27 member Board of Directors. Anyone can join HOPS by paying a modest annual fee.

Over the past twenty-two years HOPS has contributed greatly to preservation through various programs and projects, including:

The Formation of the four historic districts, Ocala, Tuscawilla Park , Downtown and supported the formation of West Ocala Historic District.  

Construction of the Ocala and Tuscawilla Park Districts entrance markers in a joint venture with the City of Ocala.       

Reconstruction of the Downtown Gazebo

Partially Funded the Downtown District Survey

Historic District Driving & Walking Tour Brochures

Unique Historic District Street Signage

Installation of Traffic Calming Devices

Guided Historic Tours for Marion County Fourth Graders

Annual Christmas Home Decorating Contest

Quarterly Beautification Awards for Homeowners

Restoration of the Snowden House in Tuscawilla Park

These many projects are funded primarily by proceeds received from HOPS Annual Spring Heritage Tour, and by donations from hundreds of generous citizens and businesses. Some State of Florida funds were also part of the Snowden House Project.