During her lifetime, Elizabeth Riegler MacManus got a thrill from gathering old photographs and tracking down facts about the people, places and institutions in Lutz and Land O’ Lakes.
Over decades, she amassed a huge collection of historical regional artifacts.
Her passion prompted her to write books, including two she co-authored, with her daughter Susan A. MacManus.
One, “Citrus, Sawmills, Critters & Crackers: Life in Early Lutz and Central Pasco County” was completed during Elizabeth’s lifetime.
She and Susan had wrapped up most of the legwork for the sequel, “Going, Going … Almost Gone: Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Pioneers Share Their Precious Memories,” before Elizabeth died in 2008.
The books contain a treasure trove of photographs and recollections transcribed from oral histories that Elizabeth had collected.
Next week, much of the work amassed by Elizabeth during her lifetime will be shared through the dedication of The Elizabeth Riegler MacManus Collection.
A ceremony to unveil the collection has been set for Sept. 20 at 10:30 a.m., at the Lutz Branch Library, at 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road.
The materials tell the personal stories of the people and industries that played a role in the evolution of the Central Pasco and northern Hillsborough communities.
The digital collection includes regional serial publications, photographs, a group of deeds and titles, pioneer reunion photographs and genealogical documents, hand-drawn maps and artifacts, according to materials relating to the upcoming event.
The library display includes items relating to the area’s orange groves, railroads and other elements that played a pivotal role in shaping the development of Lutz, Land O’ Lakes and nearby communities.
The dedication ceremony will include remarks by Jeffrey Huggins, the library’s community engagement manager; Dr. Gary Mormino, the Frank E. Duckwall Professor of History Emeritus from the University of South Florida; and by Elizabeth’s daughter, Susan, a retired USF professor of political science.
The collection has been made possible through a donation by the families of Dr. Susan MacManus, Dr. Lou MacManus and Dr. Cameron MacManus Jr.
Elizabeth Riegler MacManus Collection
What: Dedication of the The Elizabeth Riegler MacManus Collection, a compilation of historical materials about the families, businesses and culture documenting the pioneer life and history of Lutz, Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel and other areas of Hillsborough and Central Pasco counties.
When: Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m.
Where: Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road
Cost: Admission is free. It will include a look at the display, some remarks by speakers Jeffrey Huggins, and Dr. Gary Mormino and Dr. Susan A. MacManus, both retired professors from the University of South Florida. Refreshments will be served.
Published September 13, 2023
