New interpretive signage has been installed at locations along Daytona Beach’s Black Heritage Trail. The project was made possible by a $50,000 grant from the Florida Department of State’s Division of Historical Resources.
“We are excited to see this vision become reality. These signs not only preserve and honor our city’s rich history, but they also invite residents and visitors to learn more about the lasting contributions of Daytona Beach’s Black community,” said City Manager Deric C. Feacher.
The interpretive signs mark 18 existing sites of historical significance and add a 19th stop at the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune statue at the Riverfront Esplanade. Each sign highlights important people, places and events that shaped Daytona Beach and the nation over the last 150 years.
The sites include:
- Five National Register listings
- Two historic buildings
- A local and a national historic district
- A National Commemorative Site
- The only national historic landmark in the city
- An archaeological park where Timucuan Indian artifacts and mastodon remains were found
- Several historic Black churches
- A former hotel, a park and community centers central to the city’s Black heritage
The project was originally identified in the Midtown Master Plan created by Florida A&M University’s School of Architecture. The plan called for themed signage, lighting, pavement colors and displays to better connect the historic sites.
Each new sign features a QR code linking to additional digital content, offering an even deeper look into the history of each site. The signs were designed for durability and minimal long-term maintenance, ensuring they will educate and inspire for generations to come.
For information on the city’s Black Heritage Trail, visit DaytonaBeach.gov/BlackHeritageTrail.