Historic Wells’Built Museum Secures $2 Million for Vital Renovations, Honoring African American Heritage in Orlando

Orlando, FL – The Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, a cornerstone of Orlando’s rich heritage, is poised for a significant transformation thanks to an allocated $2 million in funding for much-needed renovations. This investment marks a critical step in preserving the historic building and expanding its capacity to share the stories and contributions of the African American community.

A Legacy Forged in Segregation

The Wells’Built Museum stands today in the heart of Orlando’s historic Parramore district at 511 West South Street. Its origins trace back to the 1920s when Dr. William Monroe Wells, a prominent African American physician, established the Wells’Built Hotel and an adjacent entertainment venue, the South Street Casino. During an era of pervasive segregation, these establishments served as vital havens for African Americans, offering safe lodging and vibrant cultural experiences when such amenities were denied elsewhere in the city. The hotel became a celebrated stop on the “Chitlin’ Circuit,” hosting legendary performers like Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, and B.B. King, and also provided refuge for notable figures such as Thurgood Marshall and Jackie Robinson. The significance of this historical site was formally recognized when it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on February 4, 2000.

Preserving and Showcasing African American Culture

In the early 1990s, the building faced the threat of demolition. Its preservation was championed by former State Senator Geraldine Thompson, who, inspired by her research at Valencia College, began collecting memorabilia to document local African American history. Thompson, alongside Alzo J. Reddick, led the charge to save the building, founding the Association to Preserve African American Society, History and Tradition (PAST Inc.) and eventually transforming the historic hotel into the Wells’Built Museum, which officially opened its doors in 2007. The museum now houses a comprehensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents chronicling the African American experience in Central Florida, from the Jim Crow era through the Civil Rights Movement and beyond.

A New Chapter: Major Renovations Underway

The $2 million in funding will address critical infrastructure needs, ensuring the museum’s long-term viability and enhancing visitor accessibility. Key upgrades will include essential repairs to doors, the modernization of elevators to ensure full second-floor accessibility, and the refurbishment of HVAC systems. All renovations are being meticulously planned to adhere to strict historic preservation guidelines, maintaining the building’s architectural integrity. The funding will also facilitate the renovation of Dr. William Monroe Wells’ former home, which will be incorporated into the museum’s offerings, providing space for additional memorabilia and artifacts. These improvements signal a significant investment in preserving this vital piece of American history.

Continuing a Family’s Vision

Executive Director Elizabeth Grace is at the helm, continuing the legacy established by her mother, Senator Geraldine Thompson. Grace views her role as a personal mission to honor her mother’s passion and commitment to showcasing African American history. “Continuing her life’s work and her passion is a privilege for me, and it means the world to be able to make sure that her legacy continues,” Grace stated. Thompson’s dedication paved the way for the museum’s existence, and Grace is now leading the charge into its next phase of development. Construction on these vital renovations is anticipated to commence by the end of the year, promising a revitalized space for education and cultural enrichment.

The Wells’Built Museum’s upcoming renovations represent more than just structural improvements; they signify a renewed commitment to preserving and celebrating the profound impact of African Americans on American culture and history. The project ensures that this historical landmark will continue to serve as an educational resource and a beacon of pride for generations to come, sharing the stories of resilience, achievement, and cultural richness that define the African American narrative in Orlando and beyond.