For more than 75 years, the Hernando de Soto Historical Society has celebrated the intellect, service and creativity of young women across Manatee County through the prestigious De Soto Queen's Court.
Each year a select group of ambitious young women are invited to represent the community, serving as goodwill ambassadors, engaging in leadership, and enjoying both scholarship and travel opportunities. By the time their tenure ends, court members who fulfill their duties are awarded a $750 scholarship, and the Queen and Princess gain additional awards at the end of their reign.
How the Court Is Elected
Community members recommend candidates, and the Society then chooses the finalists based on character, academic achievement, high morals and strong personality. In short: this is about more than pageantry. It is about young women who want to build, give back, lead and shine.
This Could Be Your Moment
Imagine your name called as the next De Soto Princess or Queen, wouldn't that be something? The De Soto Queen's Court offers more than scholarship money. It opens doors to nationwide and even international travel, builds lasting friendships, and connects you to leadership and networking that few other programs can match.
Mark Your Calendar
An Information Social is scheduled for Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., hosted at the Bradenton Yacht Club (4307 13th Street West, Palmetto).
This meeting offers a chance to ask questions, meet committee members, and find out how to apply. Those interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to attend the Information Social. For details, contact Sean Peel at 941-812-4673 or email QueensCourt@DesotoHQ.com.
What the Application Entails
The application is available online via JotForm.
Additional details, including eligibility requirements, are posted at https://desotohq.com/current-court-4/
You'll want to review everything carefully. The selection process emphasizes academic strength, community involvement and personal integrity.
Serving Your Community & Making Connections
Rather than just representing a title, court members serve as ambassadors for the Society and for Manatee County. With the support of the Hernando de Soto Historical Society, which has been active in the region since 1939, the De Soto Queen's Court combines a meaningful history with fresh leadership. If being part of a proud tradition sounds appealing, while building your own legacy, this could be your moment.
Next Steps
Visit the JotForm link above and complete the application.
Attend the November 2 meeting to ask questions and gather more information.
Think about how you might serve, lead and represent, not just with grace, but with initiative.
Encourage friends who might also be eligible. Healthy competition fosters strength.
Mark your calendar and plan to arrive a little early to make the most of the Information Social.
Young women from across the community have benefited from the De Soto Queen's Court experience, both for the scholarship award and the lifelong friendships it fosters. This year, the next cohort will step into that legacy. Perhaps you'll be one of them.
