Palatka's Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church

By Florida Division of Historic Resources Staff

Published: July 25, 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 Putnam County.  While some of these sites can be visited, other listings are marked "private" and are not open to the public.

Palatka
Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
179 Reid Street
The residents of the community of Newtown organized the Bethel AME church in 1866. This Romanesque Revival style building was constructed by the congregation circa 1908- 1912. (904) 328-3540.

Finley Homestead
522 Main Street (Private)
This two-story frame vernacular structure was the home of Adam Finley, a free African American artisan. Finley acquired the property in 1883. His grandson, Dr. Harold E. Finley was a nationally known zoologist.

Old Central Academy High School
127 Washington Street
Established in 1892, Central Academy became the first accredited Negro high school in Florida in 1924. The first Central Academy building was destroyed by fire in 1936. The present building replaced it in 1937 and now serves as the County School Board Service Center.

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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