Community Corner

Black History Discovery Trail In Lakeland

Lakeland residents can learn about Black leaders who paved the way for future Lakeland generations during racial segregation.

Lakeland residents can see historic pictures of Black leaders who paved the way for future Lakeland generations during racial segregation.
Lakeland residents can see historic pictures of Black leaders who paved the way for future Lakeland generations during racial segregation. (Getty Images/George Marks )

LAKELAND, FL — For Black History Month, the city of Lakeland has put together Discovery Trail that honors historic Black leaders from our community.

The trail is both virtual and in-person.

This self-led activity encourages participants to safely participate, with members of your household, following facility mask and temperature check requirements, the city's website said.

Find out what's happening in Lakelandfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Begin at any Trail Stop
  • Pick up your own Black History Discovery Trail Activity Card (1 per person)

Learn about the first three Black police officers hired in Lakeland during 1954, and the challenges they had to overcome in times of racial segregation. See the historic black and white photos of the many leaders from city hall and libraries.

Each trail stop allows visitors to learn about Black leaders that paved the way for future generations in Lakeland. Some of the in-person stops include the Lakeland Police Department, Jackson Branch Library and the Coleman—Bush Building.

Find out what's happening in Lakelandfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Virtual participants can go to the city's website and enjoy the tour from their phone, iPad or computer.

The trail is open until Feb. 28.

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