UPDATE: New historical markers celebrating the rich history of Tallahassee’s Bond community were unveiled at Speed Spencer Stephens Park on February 20, 2023. This significant event, attended by city officials and local residents, highlights the neighborhood’s legacy from the 1920s to the 1980s.
City Commissioner Curtis Richardson emphasized the importance of preserving the stories of this historically Black community. “These beautiful markers honor neighbors who have lived in this prominent community and contributed greatly to this region,” he stated during the ceremony, which featured local delicacies, including blueberry muffins, reflecting the area’s origins as a blueberry farm.
The markers detail key aspects of the Bond community’s development, including notable businesses, churches, and schools that have shaped its identity. Noteworthy figures such as Major James Morgan Jr. and the Perkins family are also recognized. The project, which took three years to complete, cost approximately $75,000 and is part of the larger Greater Bond Neighborhood First Plan adopted in 2018.
Project manager Jarvis Rosier, a lifelong resident of the Bond area, described the effort as a labor of love. He conducted 17 interviews with longtime residents to capture the essence of the community’s history. “History tells us who we are and where we still must go,” he stated, underscoring the project’s significance.
The markers serve not only to educate but also to foster a deeper connection among residents, highlighting the community’s resilience and achievements. The committee behind the project compiled extensive oral histories into a forthcoming book titled “Beyond the Blueberry,” which will further document the area’s narrative.
As celebrations continue, residents are encouraged to engage with the markers and reflect on their shared history. This initiative not only honors the past but also aims to inspire future generations within the Bond community.
For those interested in learning more, details about the community’s history and the upcoming book release will be made available soon. The unveiling of these markers marks a pivotal moment in preserving the cultural heritage of Tallahassee’s Bond community, ensuring that its legacy endures for years to come.
