African American Research Library & Cultural Center, Fort Lauderdale; (c) Soul Of America
Fort Lauderdale Cultural Sites
African American Research Library and Cultural Center
DESCRIPTION: One of only four African-American research libraries in the country, this outstanding facility originated from the Von Mizell Cultural Center and Library on Sistrunk Boulevard. The 60,000 square foot facility features the esteemed Hewitt Collection of books, periodicals and electronic materials related to African American and Caribbean history and culture. A 300-seat auditorium and a museum presents regional and national art exhibits on tour. This venue includes a Disey-created animatronic of Sam Morrison, founder of this wonderful library and cultural center. Another highlight is the striking Florida Civil Rights Sit-ins exhibit of 1960-1961 designed to educate current and future generations. The center includes a computer training lab that is popular with youngsters and research assistance for students.
ADMISSION: Free, plus small special event fees
DAYS & HOURS: Mon 12a-8p; Tue-Thu 10a-8p, Sat 9a-5p
ADDRESS: NW 6th Street at 27th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL MAP
PHONE: 954-765-4269
WEBSITE: http://www.broward.org/Library/LocationsHours/Branches/Pages/AA
Old Dillard Museum
DESCRIPTION: Built in 1924, this two story beige building was the first black high school in Broward County. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A victim of integration, classes stopped here in 1989. Today, it is an regional historical museum with unique exhibits that cover the arrival of people of African decent to the region and other events leading to the Civil Rights Movement. One exhibit chronicles African Americans’ struggle for equal educational opportunities in South Florida. The works of local artists are also on display.
ADMISSION: small fee
DAYS & HOURS: Tue, Thu-Sat 12a-4p, Wed 12a-8p
ADDRESS: 1001 NW 4th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL MAP
PHONE: 954-765-6952
WEBSITE: http://www.broward.k12.fl.us/olddillardmuseum
Elks Lodge 652
DESCRIPTION: This Elks Lodge at Fort Lauderdale has been open for over 50 years. With that legacy, this local institution is the place to enjoy old school R&B and Jazz. It is also the place where political figures meet for big informal decisions. Live bands play on Saturday and Sunday nights.
ADMISSION: membership & invite only
ADDRESS: 712 NW 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL MAP
PHONE: 954-463-7474
WEBSITE: none
Spady Cultural Heritage Museum
DESCRIPTION: The Spady is dedicated to communicating the rich history and cultural diversity of Delray Beach and South Palm Beach County. It is located in the former home of Solomon D. Spady, who was the most prominent African-American educator and community leader in Delray Beach from 1922 to 1957. The historic two-storied Mission-Revival home completed in 1926 anchors the Spady Cultural Heritage Complex. Each year the museum sponsors the beloved Spady Living Heritage Festival.
ADMISSION: $5 adults, $3 seniors, Students w/ID Free
DAYS & HOURS: Mon-Fri 11a-4p; Sat 10a-2p
ADDRESS: 170 NW 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL MAP
PHONE: 561-279-8883
WEBSITE: http://www.spadymuseum.com
