Step Into Pompano’s Past: The Sample-McDougald House Preservation Society

Step onto the wide wraparound porch of a 1916 treasure and you’ll feel Pompano Beach’s story come alive. The Sample-McDougald House Preservation Society safeguards this beloved landmark with a clear mission: to preserve the house, share its heritage, and connect the community to South Florida’s roots through tours, programs, and year-round engagement. Learn more.

The house itself is a showstopper—an elegant Colonial Revival home built by pioneer farmer Albert Neal Sample. To protect it for future generations, the Society literally moved the structure in 2001 from its original Dixie Highway site to Centennial Park at 450 NE 10th Street, where it stands proudly today beneath the shade of mature oaks. 

Its significance is national, not just local. In 2004, the Sample-McDougald House earned a place on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, honoring its architecture and its role in telling the story of early Broward County life. The surrounding Centennial Park setting amplifies the sense of time travel—you’re steps from downtown, yet surrounded by history. 

What makes a visit so special? The Society turns history into a hands-on experience. Docent-led tours open the door to period rooms, artifacts, and anecdotes that make the pioneers feel like neighbors. An active calendar of events and exhibits keeps the grounds buzzing, while weddings and private rentals transform the house and lawns into a romantic, old-Florida backdrop for unforgettable milestones. 

Community support keeps it thriving. Memberships and donations fuel preservation and come with perks such as admission benefits, discounts, and special invitations—perfect for locals who want to make history part of everyday life. The Society’s work is also strengthened by cultural partners and public arts funding, reflecting a citywide commitment to saving its heritage. 

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or simply planning a meaningful afternoon out, the Sample-McDougald House delivers a warm welcome and a vivid glimpse into Pompano Beach’s past. Before you go, check current hours, tours, and programs—then step through the front door and into a story more than a century in the making.