HONOR THE CULTURE, SITES AND STORIES OF AFRICAN AMERICANS
IN LEON COUNTY THIS BLACK HISTORY MONTH
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Feb. 4, 2021) – Celebrate the history, culture and strength of the Black community by exploring African American heritage and cultural sites across Leon County. From the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in Florida to the vital role residents played in the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, Tallahassee-Leon County’s African American story weaves an inspiring narrative of struggles and triumphs.
This story of perseverance and achievement can be seen through the work of John G. Riley, the Stephens Sisters and George Proctor, whose impacts continue to influence our community today. Their spirit continues through local places and organizations including the Smokey Hollow Commemoration, John G. Riley Center and Museum and The Grove Museum, shaping our community through the revitalization of black-owned businesses, artwork and activism.
Leon County invites residents and visitors to explore the places and people whose courage and vision have made significant contributions to our region, both past and present. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, partners may have different hours than normal or have additional safety precautions in place including the availability of online content. To find more information before visiting and a complete list of Black heritage sites to guide your journey, visit VisitTallahassee.com.
Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU)
Founded in 1887, Florida Agriculture & Mechanical University (FAMU) is one of the largest historically black universities in the nation and is a cornerstone of Tallahassee-Leon County. Home to one of the largest repositories relating to African American history and culture in the Southeast, the Meek- Eaton Black Archives Research Center & Museum is one of only 10 black archives in the country. Explore the extensive Kinsey Collection showcasing history dating back to the 17th century.
While taking in the beauty of campus, visit the Eternal Flame, a monument that burns brightly as a symbol of Rattler excellence. FAMU’s newest addition is a nearly 42-foot long bronze Rattler statue. Proudly ready to strike, the 1,500-pound rattlesnake is now officially open to the public.
Attractions + Itineraries
Built in 1890, the John G. Riley Center and Museum was originally the home to local educator and civic leader John Riley and is still a key part of the Smokey Hollow neighborhood, an African American community that once thrived in downtown. Today, the museum hosts tours and events that share the legacy of African Americans to Florida’s history.
In 2020, Leon County became the first County in Florida to recognize Emancipation Day. Though Emancipation Day celebrations have been held in the community for many years, 2021 will be the first year Emancipation Day is officially celebrated as a County holiday. As you travel through the community, stand in the footsteps of Union Brigadier General Edward M. McCook, who stood on the steps of the Knott House on May 20, 1865 to read the Emancipation Proclamation publicly for the first time in the State of Florida.
Known locally for its 52 acres of Florida flora and fauna, the Tallahassee Museum is also home to several historic buildings from the 19th century. When visiting, guests can walk through the first organized black church in Florida as well as a school for children of former enslaved people.
To help guide visitors through local African American experiences, the African American Heritage and Black Culture Experience itineraries on VisitTallahassee.com feature these sites and more.
Civil Rights
A turning point in the struggle for civil rights can be found at The Grove Museum, a preserved home originally built by enslaved African Americans and later the residence of Governor LeRoy Collins. Among the artifacts preserved here, is the pen that was used by Governor Collins to sign the 1964 Civil Rights Act ending segregation in Florida.
A short walk down Jefferson Street, visitors experience the Tallahassee-Leon County Civil Rights Heritage Sidewalk where 16 terrazzo panels recognize the residents and FAMU students who were instrumental in amplifying the national call for Civil Rights through peaceful protests, bus boycotts and sit-ins.
The pursuit for equality continues today. As a modern reminder to all who see it, the Black Lives Matter mural at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Gaines Street stands as an expression of Tallahassee’s continued support of diversity and equality in the community.
Frenchtown
Located in the heart of Leon County is a community with history and culture stretching back over a hundred years, Frenchtown is a living and breathing monument to the contributions of the African American community. The Soul Voices of Frenchtown guides visitors on the journey of Frenchtown’s history in the voices of former and current residents as they tell stories handed down through generations. Learn how Frenchtown took root in the Reconstruction era and how it became the thriving community we know today. Among the landmarks of Frenchtown is the Lewis W. Taylor House. Built in 1894, it now serves as a museum of African American History, culture and civil rights.
Art & Artistry
Black artistry is at the core of the African American experience in Leon County. Visit the Bradfordville Blues Club, where, for over 50 years, legend states that blues giants like Ray Charles, B. B. King and Chuck Barry played under its roof. The club is celebrated as Florida’s first site listed on the historic Mississippi Blues Trail. Experience other forms of art that thrive throughout the community, through local events and venues such as the Anderson Brickler Gallery and Black On Black Rhyme or enjoy a walk through FAMU campus to explore murals and artwork paying homage to the Divine 9 organizations and alumni that made FAMU great.
The Culinary Experience
From southern eats to snowball treats, Black-owned restaurants are an essential part of Tallahassee cuisine and culture. In fact, a stroke of culinary genius is spreading throughout Leon County, and it is inspiring a new generation of young, gifted, and black entrepreneurs. Three businesses - Bourne Brilliant, The Chocolate Dandies, and Gurlie’s Lemonade have been filling bellies and dominating headlines with their creative approaches to sweet treats and cuisine. Other must stop spots including Olean’s near FAMU, Earley’s Kitchen, Hemplade Vegan Café and Leola’s Crab Shack. For a list of other must-try spots, click here.
Photo Gallery/Tour
Images of hope, messages of equality, and the voices of community are woven throughout Tallahassee-Leon County. The Black History and Culture Photo Gallery takes visitors on a journey throughout the community to the historical sites core to the black experience in Leon County. The photo gallery takes a look back in time at figures such as George Proctor and the Rutgers House, and a look ahead at the revitalization of locations such as the Frenchtown Heritage Hub.
While this month we take special time to celebrate and honor the rich Black history found in Leon County, these opportunities for engagement and learning are available all year long. For a fuller list of African American heritage sites or to view planned itineraries go to VisitTallahassee.com. For a mobile friendly version of the itineraries, download the Visit Tallahassee app available for iPhone and Android devices.
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About The Leon County Division of Tourism/Visit Tallahassee: The Leon County Division of Tourism (Visit Tallahassee) is the official destination marketing organization for Tallahassee-Leon County. Tourism is charged with marketing Tallahassee-Leon County nationally as a premier leisure, business and sports destination through direct sales, advertising, public relations, sports and visitor services. Named as one of Southern Living’s top 10 Cities of the South, in 2020, Tallahassee-Leon County welcomed 1.68 million visitors who contributed $766 million in economic impact and accounts for more than 11,943 people employed in our community in the tourism & hospitality industry. For more information, go to VisitTallahassee.com or call toll free (800) 628-2866. Engage with Visit Tallahassee on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using #iHeartTally and #Trailahassee.
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