Florida has a rich and diverse history.  African American landmarks and legacies exist in various locations throughout the state. The following historical sites can be found in Okaloosa County.  While some of these sites can be visited, other listings are marked "private" and are not open to the public.


Crestview
Carver-Hill Museum and Fairview Park Complex
895 McClelland Street
The Okaloosa Negro Civic Club established a neighborhood park in the early 1950s. When a new school was built in 1954, Carver-Hill, the old one-room frame lunchroom building was given to the Civic Club by the Okaloosa County School Board. Enlarged and renovated, it became the Carver-Hill Museum, operated by the Carver-Hill Memorial and Historical Society, Inc. (850) 682-4003 or (850) 682-3494.


JRL Conyers Lodge #364
550 McDonald Street
The Masons and Eastern Stars are vital members of the African American community. This 1909 Lodge Hall was also used as an early school facility. (850) 689-6739.


Ft. Walton Beach
Indian Mound Lodge #1205
118 Kiwi Place
The Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World (IBPOEW) is the largest black fraternal organization in the world. This property is home of Indian Mound Lodge #1205 and Booker T. Washington Temple #963. The Lodge and Temple provide entertainment, historical programs and
community service activities. (850) 244-1154.

Adapted from Florida Black Heritage Trail, published by the Florida Department of State, in partnership with VISIT FLORIDA, copyright 2007.  For more information on African American sites, please visit flheritage.com.

Additional information can also be found at: http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/milesmedia/floridablackheritage/