A Historic African-American Town
Founding and Incorporation
Eatonville, Florida, stands as one of the first self-governing Black municipalities in the United States. Located in Orange County, just north of Orlando, the town began in the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. Of the more than one hundred Black towns founded between 1865 and 1900, fewer than twelve still exist today. Eatonville remains the oldest incorporated among them.
On August 15, 1887, 27 registered Black voters gathered in a building they called Town Hall and voted unanimously to incorporate the town. This marked a historic achievement in African-American self-governance. The name “Eatonville” honors Captain Josiah Eaton of Maitland, one of the key figures who supported its creation.
Community Formation and Land Acquisition
The journey to establish Eatonville faced many challenges. At first, local landowners refused to sell a large enough tract to form a town. Progress began when Isaac Vanderpool offered guidance, Josiah C. Eaton sold land to community leader Joseph E. Clark, and Lewis Lawrence purchased 22 additional acres. Lawrence gave 12 acres to Clark and 10 acres to the African Methodist Episcopal Church Trustees, allowing the town to take shape.
Purpose and Structure
Eatonville developed as a direct response to increasing racial segregation. Many Black families chose to form their communities rather than live under restrictive conditions. These racial colonies often resembled extended families, centered on education, religion, and mutual aid. Eatonville grew from this tradition, creating a strong and self-sustaining environment.
Cultural Impact
Zora Neale Hurston, a renowned author and anthropologist, brought national attention to Eatonville through her writing. She portrayed the town’s people, language, and traditions in her work, providing a vivid picture of African-American life in the rural South. The community honors her legacy each year during the Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities.
Legacy
Since its incorporation, Eatonville has maintained leadership and residency rooted in African-American identity. The town continues to represent resilience, cultural pride, and self-determination, serving as a living monument to African-American history and achievement.