Greenville is Home to Ray Charles Memorial Statue

By Florida Division of Historic Resources Staff

Published: July 17, 2008

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Florida has a rich and diverse history.  African American landmarks and legacies exist in various locations throughout the state. The following historical sites can be found in Madison County.  While some of these sites can be visited, other listings are marked "private" and are not open to the public.

Greenville
Ray Charles Memorial at Haffye Hays Park
South side of U.S. Highway 90 in downtown Greenville
Greenville is the childhood home of Ray Charles (1930- 2004). A full-sized statue commemorates the Greenville life of this world-famous singer, songwriter and composer who attended the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind in St. Augustine.


Madison
Four Freedoms Park
U.S. Highway 90 and North Range Street
In the heart of the Madison historic district is the Four Freedoms Park. The most recent memorial, dedicated on the anniversary of Florida’s endorsement of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, carries the inscription, “This monument is dedicated to the former slaves of Madison County, their supporters and the unsung heroes who gave their prayers, blood, sweat and tears to help make our community what it is today.” (850) 973-2788, www.madisonfl.org.


Madison Post Office
200 East Pinckney Street
The George Snow Hill mural reflecting life in the north Florida cotton industry was created as part of President Roosevelt’s WPA program. (850) 973-6241.

Adapted from Florida Black Heritage Trail, published by the Florida Department of State, in partnership with VISIT FLORIDA, copyright 2007. For more information on African American sites, please visit flheritage.com.

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