Eatonville, a historic town incorporated in 1887 and recognized as one of the first self-governing all-Black municipalities in the United States, has been designated on the annual list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, highlighted Eatonville's historical significance and current challenges: “Today it requires protection, investment, and support in the face of development pressures from larger metropolitan areas and other complex challenges."
The list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places was established in 1988 to spotlight threats to significant cultural landmarks. The initiative has played a critical role in preserving over 350 sites across the country by rallying public support.
N.Y. Nathiri, executive director of the Association to Preserve the Eatonville Community (P.E.C.), expressed enthusiasm about this recognition: “Eatonville is widely acknowledged for being the first incorporated African American community in the nation. Today’s announcement solidifies our place in the canon of American history.”
Founded during Reconstruction by newly emancipated Black people, Eatonville is also known as the home of Zora Neale Hurston, a prominent Harlem Renaissance writer.
For more information on this year's endangered places or how to help preserve them, visit www.SavingPlaces.org/11Most.
The Southern Poverty Law Center supports racial justice initiatives across communities. More details can be found at www.splcenter.org.
The Association to Preserve the Eatonville Community aims to promote Eatonville's heritage and foster economic development through cultural programming. Further information is available through their organization.