In Black History Month, come and learn more about our local history. Hidden, Historic Campbell Park, the culmination of three years of research, unveils the rich history of the first “Negro park” in the city of St. Pete. On an easy 1 mile walk, Historian Josette Green shares intriguing, little-known stories of Black history that occurred in this now thriving park. Attendees leave with actionable ideas to advance racial equity.
Organized by St. Petersburg Black History Tours
S. Rose Smith-Hayes
February 7, 2025at11:20 pm
So many memories in that park. the baseball field was the location for many events during my childhood. As a student at 16th Street Elementary school, we had May Day Festivals in that park, on that field. My brother was in the 4th grade and he participated in a dance to the song Cherry Pink and Apple blossom White. the boys wore black trousers and red sashes around their waists. The girls wore colorful skirts and white off the shoulder blouses. the all looked handsome and beautiful. 3rd graders platted the Maypole. Those events were discontinued because of what was called progress. As a student at Jonathan C. Gibbs Sr. High School, I attended Homecoming football games at the baseball park. We also had band festivals there and high school bands came from all over the state of Florida for those events. The famous Indianapolis Clowns baseball team played in that field at Campbell Park. Memories light the corners of my mind.