Article from opening year
What began in 2000 as a small shop tied to student-led historic tours has grown into a cherished part of campus life and the wider St. Augustine experience. Located on historic St. George Street, the Legacy store has become a welcoming front door to Flagler, offering a glimpse into the College’s rich history, vibrant student culture, and iconic brand.
“Historic tours started as a student project, and now they’ve become a gateway to allow the public to safely see our space,” said Nikki Liberatore (‘12), manager of the Legacy store. “It’s a meaningful bridge between our students and the community.”
The tours—and the Legacy store that complements them—have inspired countless visitors and prospective students over the years. Many of them have gone on to become Saints themselves after discovering Flagler's beauty, charm, and history on a visit to campus.
“We have stories of students who say, ‘I came to Flagler because I was on that tour,’” said Sam Palmer (‘04), director of brand experience and merchandise licensing. “It’s incredible to see how that initial impression can shape someone’s future.”
In its early days, the store focused on museum-style merchandise that highlighted Flagler’s architecture and heritage. Over time, it evolved to include student-designed apparel, alumni gear, and exclusive Flagler-branded collections that celebrate school spirit with style.
The journey wasn’t always easy—some days in the early 2000s brought in as little as $10—but with creativity, persistence, and community support, Legacy found its rhythm and began to thrive. Today, it stands as a hub of energy and pride, serving students, alumni, faculty, and the thousands of visitors who walk through its doors each year.
As the Legacy store celebrates its 25th anniversary, it also celebrates the students who have worked behind the counter, the alumni who return year after year, and the countless guests who leave with a deeper appreciation of Flagler College.
“The Legacy store may be the only interaction most tourists will ever have with the college unless they’re going on a tour,” Palmer said. “That’s why we’re committed to making it memorable—so they walk away with something more than a t-shirt. They leave with a story, a connection, and a sense of what makes Flagler special.”
Here’s to 25 years of Legacy—and to many more years of pride, passion, and community.
