The Rosenwald School of Panama City

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Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

Photo Credit: Department of Environmental Protection's Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

African American landmarks in Bay and Calhoun counties

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 Bay County and Calhoun County.  While some of these sites can be visited, other listings are marked "private" and are not open to the public.


Bay County
Panama City
Massalina Bayou
Off Business 98, Massalina Drive and Massalina Circle African American Spanish fisherman Josea Massalina was founder of Red Fish Point, a small community on what is now Tyndall Air Force Base. The community moved across the bay, settling along the Bayou now named for the Massalina family. Massalina’s son, Hawk, was a prominent Panama City ship builder and fisherman. Many original homes remain in this once-African American neighborhood.


The Rosenwald School
624 Bay Street
Located in what was once the black business district of Panama City, the Rosenwald School served black students in Bay County during segregation. The original building remains on its original site. 850-872-4580.


Calhoun County
Blountstown
Mayhaw Community
River Street
Three tenant houses dating back to the 1930s are being restored here. Each February, Black Heritage events take place in the Clay Mary Community Park. 850-674-4519

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. Additional information can also be found at: http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/milesmedia/floridablackheritage/