UPDATE: New historical markers were unveiled in Tallahassee’s Bond community at Speed Spencer Stephens Park on February 20, 2024, commemorating the rich history of this historically Black neighborhood. Residents gathered for the ceremony, celebrating the legacy of their community with refreshments and heartfelt speeches.
The markers, which took nearly three years to create at a cost of $75,000, detail the area’s history from the 1920s to the 1980s. Tallahassee City Commissioner Curtis Richardson emphasized the significance of preserving these stories, stating,
“These beautiful markers preserve stories of the Greater Bond neighborhood and honor neighbors who have lived in this prominent, historically Black community.”
The plaques cover multiple facets of the community’s development, including local businesses, churches, and schools, some of which remain vital today. Major figures like Major James Morgan Jr. and Robert and Trudie Perkins are highlighted, showcasing the contributions of past residents.
Officials at the ceremony included fellow City Commissioners Dianne Williams-Cox and Jack Porter, along with community leaders such as Talethia Edwards, who is currently campaigning for a city commission seat. Project manager Jarvis Rosier, a lifelong Bond resident, stated that the project was a labor of love for the community.
Rosier explained the initiative began in 2021, when he was tasked by the city’s neighborhood affairs division to form the Greater Bond Neighborhood History Group. This committee consisted of longtime residents who documented the neighborhood’s rich heritage. Rosier conducted 17 interviews with former residents, gathering invaluable stories from the community.
The project is part of the Greater Bond Neighborhood First Plan, adopted by the city in 2018. Rosier outlined the three phases of the project: transcribing oral histories, creating composite narratives by decade, and developing content for the historical markers now on display.
Each marker along the walking trail provides a unique glimpse into the neighborhood’s past, while the stories not included on the markers have been compiled into a forthcoming book titled “Beyond the Blueberry.” Rosier stated,
“History tells us who we are, what we are, where we’ve been, and most importantly, history tells us where we still must go.”
The unveiling of these markers not only honors the legacy of the Bond community but also serves as an emotional reminder of the neighborhood’s resilience and vibrant history. As the community looks to the future, these markers will stand as a testament to their collective journey.
Stay tuned for more updates and the release of “Beyond the Blueberry,” a project that aims to further illuminate the stories of this remarkable community.
