About Gotha Rural Settlement Association
About Us
The Gotha Rural Settlement Association, Inc. is a dedicated non-profit organization focused on preserving and promoting the historical integrity of Gotha, Florida. We are committed to safeguarding the town’s unique character, cultural landmarks, and historical resources through active community involvement, education, and preservation efforts.
Through advocacy and revitalization projects, we aim to enhance public appreciation of Gotha’s heritage and ensure its historical assets are protected and enjoyed by future generations. Our work reflects a deep respect for the past and a strong commitment to the collective good of the community.
We meet every third Wednesday of the month at 6:30pm at the community center. Everybody is welcome to join.
Our Mission Statement
The mission of the Association is to provide leadership, education, preservation, enhancement and revitalization of the historical character, attributes of and historical resources of Gotha, Florida, and advocate and provide for their protection, enhancement and use by the public for the collective good of the community.
GRSA Team in action
GRSA Projects
Our initiatives have included securing an Orange County Neighborhood Improvement grant for historical signage that marks the entry points of the Gotha Historical Rural Settlement. Our Board members took the lead in designing the signage, composing the grant proposal, collaborating with the Orange County Neighborhood Improvement, coordinating with our District 1 County Commissioner, and securing the funding needed for the installation of the signs.
At present, the 1916 Gotha Schoolhouse, also known as the Gotha Community Center, is overseen by the Gotha Rural Settlement Association, Inc. The future plans for the building and its grounds include the following prioritized list.
Visit our Rentals tab for more details about reserving this historic venue!
Dine, Shop, & Explore Gotha
Gotha, Florida, is home to some hidden treasures within our rural community, including Yellow Dog Eats Cafe—a charming, pet-friendly spot housed in a historic building, offering a delightful array of sandwiches, wraps, and homemade BBQ. Additionally, you can explore other historic locations such as Nehrling Gardens, Camp Ithiel, Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Ready Set Dance, Royal Landscape Nursery, and many more!
Support one of our local businesses that contribute to making Gotha a wonderful place to live.
GRSA Priority List
- Stabilizing the piers and building foundation.
- Getting 1916 Gotha Schoolhouse AKA Gotha Community Center listed on the National Register for Historic Sites.
- Restoration of the Frame Vernacular architecture 1916 Gotha Schoolhouse AKA Gotha Community Center building.
- Landscaping around the building, arboriculture on the historic tree canopy. Replanting flowering trees, native wildflowers and other plants from Gotha’s historic horticultural legacy.
- Installing pollinator gardens and Florida Native trees through Gotha to support local biodiversity.
- Update irrigation system around 1916 Gotha Schoolhouse AKA Gotha Community Center.
- Install a walkway from parking lot to building porch.
- Update signage in front of building.
- Restore 1916 Gotha Schoolhouse AKA Gotha Community Center trophy case and display historic photographs of 1920-1930 Gotha agriculture exhibits from which trophies were won. Display photographs of Gotha’s historic sites.
- Add brick inserts and sidewalks on Gotha Road, Hempel Avenue and other crosswalks in Gotha.
- Lakefront restoration on Lake Mills.
- Work with Foundation for the Historical Zion Lutheran Church of Gotha Inc. for the restoration of the historic Zion Lutheran Graveyard, 1001 Hempel Avenue, Gotha.
- Coordination with the U.S. Post Office for beautification of the lot.
Seeking To Show Your Support For Gotha?
Reach out to us today to highlight your business or personal support for our Gotha community!
