Honoring Black History I n 1866, just after the end of the Civil War, a group of formerly enslaved people established a resilient community in the Daytona Beach area. Freemanville, as it would come to be known, became a beacon of hope and determination, symbolizing the African American community’s unwavering spirit and pivotal role in shaping the region’s development from its earliest days. Today, the Freemanville historic site in Port Orange proudly showcases the profound impact of African American leaders in the area. It is one of many landmarks recognizing the contributions of key individuals who helped establish the Daytona Beach Area as a vibrant and diverse community with global influence. The enduring legacy of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune stands tall in the heart of Daytona Beach at Bethune-Cookman University. This renowned educator and civil rights leader founded her first school in 1904, paving the way for the university’s growth and its continued celebration of a proud heritage. Her vision and dedication transformed countless lives, and her spirit continues to inspire future generations. The B-CU campus includes the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Home & Gravesite, declared a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service. This site features captivating artifacts and photos that document Dr. Bethune’s remarkable achievements, offering a poignant glimpse into her life and legacy. In 2022, a statue of Dr. Bethune was placed in National Statuary Hall in the United States Capitol, honoring her immense contributions to the state of Florida. This powerful tribute stands as a testament to her enduring influence and the profound respect she commands. Jackie Robinson Ballpark in downtown Daytona Beach, home to the Daytona Tortugas baseball team, stands as a monument to Robinson breaking the color barrier in professional baseball in the 1940s. The stadium, which opened in 1914, was renamed to honor Robinson in 1989 and features a prominent statue just outside the gate. This historic site celebrates Robinson’s debut during Spring Training in 1946 and the monumental strides he made for equality in sports. The childhood home of Rev. Dr. Howard Thurman, located in one of the oldest residential areas in Daytona Beach, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As a teacher and Dean of Chapel at Morehouse College, Howard University, and Boston University, Dr. Thurman was a powerful voice in the civil rights movement and a mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His home, open for tours by appointment only, offers a deeply moving experience, connecting visitors to his legacy of wisdom and courage. A short drive west of Daytona Beach in DeLand is the African American Museum of the Arts. Established in 1994, the museum celebrates African American and Caribbean American cultures with more than 150 pieces of art from Nigeria, Haiti, South America, Zimbabwe, Senegal, Ethiopia, and Kenya. In addition to the permanent gallery, the museum also houses six rotating exhibits throughout the year, offering a rich and dynamic exploration of cultural heritage. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Statue Jackie Robinson Statue 34 | DAYTONABEACH.COM
