Historic Preservation

A developer bought the Colson and wanted to tear it down, saying the structure would require millions to fix. But a local company with another plan bought the structure after building an alliance of local leaders.

Anand Pallegar, the founder of Dream Large, which aims to drive social change in communities, says a coalition of groups is working to buy and revitalize the century-old structure.

Known originally as the Colson Hotel for Negroes, the building at 1425 Eighth St. was one of the few places in southwest Florida where Black people could stay during the Jim Crow era.

Some people are worried that extended construction will hinder businesses and residents in Ybor City; Tampa officials are working to try to limit any possible negative impacts.

The North Port City Commission voted to have city staff come up with an analysis of the cost to restore the buildings, along with flood mitigation and insurance options.

The Baranoff Oak is said to be between 300 to 500 years old. A vote would preserve the tree and the park it sits on.

Mugshots, testimonies, jail intake ledgers and crime scene photos are among the items showcased in the project.

Historic Black communities have dwindled from their once-thriving existence in the United States and efforts to preserve what's left encounter complicated challenges.

Studies show Plant City and nearby communities will increase from 60,000 residents to more than 150,000 by 2050. Some residents embrace the change, but others who have spent their lives there say the town's history is key to maintaining its original identity.

A Q&A with Leslee F. Keys, retired assistant professor and director of historic preservation at Flagler College.

Turtle Mound, the tallest shell mound in the mainland United States, is an example of what it looks like when proactive measures are taken to preserve and monitor a coastal mound. But for this mound and hundreds of Indigenous cultural sites in Florida, archeologists are asking how long they can race against erosion.

The city was one of 33 sites nationwide to receive money from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. It will go toward the Union Academy neighborhood.