Born in Jacksonville in 1876, Eartha Mary Magdalene White followed her formerly enslaved mother’s example by dedicating her life to improving living conditions for the city’s poor. Today, White is best known for founding LaVilla's Clara White Mission. However, nicknamed the “Angel of Mercy,” White was much more than a humanitarian, philanthropist and civil rights activist. She was also a prominent businesswoman during the height of segregation and a charter member of the National Negro Business League and Jacksonville Business League. Here are just five of the businesses and public spaces that she established. Read More
Sights and scenes from a recent press conference celebrating the largest one-time federal grant that Jacksonville has ever received. Recently awarded $147 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the funds will be utilized to advance the construction of the full 30-mile Emerald Trail system. Read More
Born Araminta Ross and known as “the Moses of her people,” Harriet Tubman escaped enslavement and rescued hundreds through a network of safe houses and antislavery activists known as the Underground Railroad. What’s not taught in the local history books is that she served in North Florida during the Civil War, providing intelligence that allowed the Union to capture Jacksonville without a shot. Read More
In honor of Women's History Month, here’s a look at the life and works of Marvel Funderburk Rathel. While not as well known as many names in the architectural world, along with her husband, King Solomon, Marvel Rathel designed and built some of the most distinctive homes in Jacksonville over a three-decade period. Read More
