Brownsville: A Journey Through Historic Landmarks

Brownsville’s Historic Hampton House, the filming location for “One Night in Miami,” is a key highlight of the tour. Guides emphasize its significance, making it a standout stop. Nearby, you’ll also find Georgette’s Tea Room and the Lincoln Cemetery, adding depth to your visit.

Dive into Miami’s Cultural Mosaic: Liberty City, Little Haiti, and More

These vibrant neighborhoods blend seamlessly, making it difficult even for locals to distinguish where one ends and the next begins.

The 1980 McDuffie Riots, triggered by the brutal beating of a decorated Marine by police, left a lasting impact on the community. An all-white jury's acquittal of the officers led to widespread unrest and a significant mark on the area's history.

Recommended Time: 30-60 minutes

Rediscovering Overtown

Overtown, once the vibrant center of Miami’s Black community, faced significant challenges when the construction of the I-95 highway nearly decimated the area. Today, however, Overtown is experiencing a cultural and economic revival. New residential buildings, restaurants, and the influence of Wynwood’s growth are fueling this resurgence. Key historical landmarks such as the Black Police Precinct, the Lyric Theater, Dana Dorsey’s home, Dorsey Field, and the area’s 1890s-era churches continue to highlight Overtown’s rich and enduring legacy.

Coral Gables’ Historic Legacy

Is there a Black neighborhood in Coral Gables? Despite the area's historical restrictions, Coral Gables did, in fact, have designated areas for its Bahamian workers. George Merrick, the founder of Coral Gables, set aside two areas across US1 for his employees. Today, these neighborhoods are marked by distinctive white stone street signs. While few of the original Shotgun homes remain, the rich history of these areas is still evident.

Discover Bill Baggs Lighthouse and the Historic Refuge of Stiltsville

Bill Baggs Lighthouse stands as a National Underground Railroad Monument, though its hours of operation can be somewhat unpredictable. From its vantage point, the lighthouse offers stunning views of Stiltsville and the vibrant reefs of Biscayne National Park. Historically, this area served as a crucial escape route for Africans and Native Americans fleeing oppression, seeking refuge in the Bahamas or Cuba to avoid being returned to slavery or forcibly relocated on the Trail of Tears.

For a thorough visit, we recommend allocating 45-60 minutes, and possibly more if you plan to combine your trip with a visit to Virginia Key Beach.

Honoring Civil Rights Leaders: Father Gibson and Athalie Range in Miami’s History

Father Gibson, born in the Bahamas, was a prominent civil rights leader with influential churches in Coconut Grove and Overtown. Another notable figure, Athalie Range, was born in Key West to Bahamian parents. She gained recognition as a civil rights leader and was notably present in President Carter’s limousine when it was struck by rocks following the McDuffie riots. Both individuals played pivotal roles in advancing civil rights in Miami and beyond.

The Legacy of Virginia Beach and Civil Rights Heroes

Dr. John Brown, an influential civil rights leader, is pictured on the right. His legacy continues through his wife, who still oversees the Church of the Open Door in the heart of Liberty City.

Virginia Beach was established in August 1945 following an incident involving Rev. Mundi and a group of WWII veterans who went swimming at Haulover Beach, an exclusively white area. The backlash from this visit led to the creation of Virginia Key Beach just a week later. While this tour usually passes by the beach, a stop can be requested to delve into its historical significance.

Exploring Liberty Square: The Changes in Liberty City and Brownsville

In the heart of Liberty City lies the former Pork and Beans, now known as Liberty Square, which has been replaced by modern apartments. The original site is now deserted. We are interested in understanding what the Related Group received in return for their impressive work on Liberty Square. Related projects can be found throughout Liberty City and Brownsville.

Little Haiti’s Evolution: From 1920s Elegance to Modern Challenges

Little Haiti, like much of Black Miami, is experiencing rapid gentrification. The Buena Vista neighborhood, once known for its elegant 1920s homes, became a vibrant Haitian community in the 1980s. Today, Haitians are increasingly moving north toward North Miami and North Miami Beach, as the area continues to change.

Why Muhammad Ali Holds a Special Place in Miami’s History

Why does the Black Miami Matters tour emphasize Muhammad Ali? In Miami, we like to say that while Cassius Clay was born in Louisville, Muhammad Ali was born in Miami. This local pride highlights the deep connection we feel to the legendary boxer and his impact on our community.

The Iconic Fight in Miami: How Cassius Clay’s Politics Shaped Boxing History

Miami is the site of the historic boxing match where Cassius Clay defeated Sonny Liston in one of the most famous fights in history. The FBI, concerned about Clay’s new alliance with Malcolm X and his affiliation with the Nation of Islam, even considered canceling the fight at the Miami Beach Convention Center due to these political tensions.

Muhammad Ali’s Home: A Simple Landmark on the Black Miami Matters Tour

On the Black Miami Matters tour, we always pass by Muhammad Ali’s home while traveling from Brownsville to Liberty City. It’s a very simple house, offering a modest glimpse into the life of one of boxing’s greatest legends.

Spanish Florida’s Legacy: Freedom and Resistance in Early American History

Spanish Florida marked the beginning of Black history in the United States in 1513 with Juan Garrido, a native of the Congo, who accompanied conquistador Ponce de León in claiming La Florida for Spain. In 1693, Spanish Florida was declared a “Slave Sanctuary,” allowing escaped slaves from British America to live freely if they converted to Catholicism, baptized their children, and defended Florida against British attacks. Despite this sanctuary status, slavery was still present in the region.



Founded in 1565, St. Augustine had a predominantly native and African population, including escaped slaves, refugees from other Spanish colonies in the Caribbean, and a few Spanish settlers. A black township named Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mosé was established a mile north of the city to protect it from British invasions; today, it is known as Fort Mosé. Visiting this state park provides a different perspective on Florida’s history compared to what is typically taught in Tallahassee.

Uncovering the Truth: Spanish Florida, the Black Seminoles, and Andrew Jackson

The rich 300-year history of Spanish Florida, including its Native American and African heritage, has been largely overshadowed by Tallahassee’s narrative. Under General Andrew Jackson, the United States launched attacks and seized both East and West Florida from Spain, leading to 50 years of conflict known as the Seminole Wars. Jackson’s true motive was to recapture escaped slaves for his allies, a fact he obscured by portraying the conflict as a battle against "savage natives" to justify his actions.

During these wars, Africans integrated with various tribes such as the Upper Creeks, Lower Creeks, Red Stick Creeks, and Miccosukee, who were forced into Florida while resisting the U.S. Army. This was the first conflict in which Americans faced a protracted and unsuccessful campaign, revealing the complex and often overlooked history of resistance and cultural fusion in the region.

Resetting Your Understanding of Black History in America

Our rich Native American and African history has been significantly overlooked by Tallahassee’s narratives. For those traveling down the state to Miami, a visit to St. Augustine is essential. It offers an opportunity to reset and broaden your understanding of Black history in America, providing a more comprehensive perspective on these crucial historical experiences.