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Explore, Learn, and Celebrate: Five St. Johns County Parks That Honor Black History

Writer's picture: Marithza RossMarithza Ross

February is Black History Month, and the St. Johns County Parks Foundation is proud to showcase how our parks are more than just places for recreation—they are spaces where history is preserved and celebrated. From the historic shores of Butler Beach to the cultural legacy of Armstrong Park, we picked five parks across St. Johns County that hold deep ties to Black history. These parks serve as living monuments to the resilience, achievements, and contributions of the African American community.


 

Al Wilke Park in Hastings, FL
Al Wilke Park in Hastings, FL

(6150 S. Main St., Hastings, FL 32145)


Historic Athletes: Hometown of former NFL player Derrick Ramsey and Negro League baseball legend John Henry “Pop” Lloyd, a National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee.


Community Hub: A central gathering space for local events and recreation.


Recreational Facilities: Features sports fields and playgrounds supporting active lifestyles.


 

Historic Home of Stetson Kennedy at Beluthahatchee Park
Historic Home of Stetson Kennedy at Beluthahatchee Park

(1523 State Road 13, Fruit Cove, FL 32259)


Stetson Kennedy’s Home: Residence of civil rights activist and author Stetson Kennedy, known for exposing the Ku Klux Klan.


Cultural Landmark: A gathering place for activists and artists, including Zora Neale Hurston and Woody Guthrie.


Scenic Retreat: Offers serene trails and waterways for reflection and nature appreciation.


 

Playscape at Collier-Blocker-Puryear Park
Playscape at Collier-Blocker-Puryear Park

(10 N. Holmes Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32084)


Educational Legacy: Honors educators who were pivotal in the history of Florida Memorial University, Nathan W. Collier, Sarah Ann Blocker, and Royal W. Puryear.


Community Center: A hub for neighborhood events and programs.


Civil Rights History: Hosted the 2024 ribbon-cutting for the relocated Canright House, a Juneteenth landmark.


 

In 1980, the State of Florida turned over the management of Butler Beach Park to St. Johns County.
In 1980, the State of Florida turned over the management of Butler Beach Park to St. Johns County.

 (5860 A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080)


Founded by Frank B. Butler: A Black entrepreneur who developed the beach as a haven for African Americans during segregation.


Historic Significance: One of the few Florida beaches open to Black residents before integration.


Recreational Legacy: Today, it remains a beloved beach with drivable access and historical markers.


 
Armstrong Park Bike Trail. Photo Courtesy of Florida Historic Coast
Armstrong Park Bike Trail. Photo Courtesy of Florida Historic Coast

Armstrong Park (4950 Harvey Ave., Elkton, FL 32033)


Gullah Geechee Heritage: Celebrates the culture of descendants of enslaved Africans from coastal plantations part of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor


Community Events: Hosts cultural festivals and gatherings.


Recreational Space: Features sports fields, picnic areas, and open spaces for leisure.


 

📲 Discover More: Download the free St. Johns County Parks and Recreation app for interactive maps, event registrations, and audio tours to enhance your park experience.



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