May 18 marked a significant day for the history of DeLand. It was a day of reflection on the past and hope for the future, as the St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop Alliance and Stetson University hosted the unveiling of a historical marker at Greater Union First Baptist Church, located at 240 S. Clara Ave. in DeLand.
This is the first of many landmarks to be celebrated through the creation of the DeLand Black Heritage Trail.
The DeLand Black Heritage Trail — a joint effort of the St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop, Stetson University, the West Volusia Historical Society and numerous community partners and supporters — provides a detailed guide for residents and visitors to enjoy self-guided cycling and walking routes that connect “DeLand’s Black heritage sites and interesting destinations that honor African American heritage.”
The celebratory day began with community leaders and scholars addressing the crowd at the Dr. Noble “Thin Man” Watts Amphitheater, and was followed by a full day of community-focused events at Greater Union First Baptist Church, the African American Museum of the Arts, and American Legion Orange Baker Post 187 — all within a few walkable blocks of the Amphitheater.
BEACON PHOTO/JESSIE SPERRAZZA
