About the Rhoda L. Martin Cultural Heritage Center

The center is supported by the efforts of the Jacksonville Beach Elementary Preservation Fund. JBEPF was formed in 1999 as part of an effort to save School #144 from demolition and to provide a multi-purpose site to exhibit and preserve the African American historical artifacts of the Beaches area.

 

Through community engagement and support, the Jacksonville Beach Elementary Preservation Fund works to:

  • Preserve the original four classrooms of the schoolhouse

  • Appreciate the African American history of the Jacksonville Beaches area

  • Remember the early African American educational experience of the Beaches area

  • Promote cultural diversity through education

  • Build pride and respect for all people

  • Foster integrity and responsibility through community service

 
Hygema House Movers relocate the original Jacksonville Beach Elementary School building from the site on the school grounds to a new site in 2001.
 
 

Meet the Jacksonville Beach Elementary Preservation Fund, Inc.

The Jacksonville Beach Elementary Preservation Fund, Inc., DBA as the Rhoda L. Martin Cultural Heritage Center, is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization committed to preserving and celebrating the rich historical and cultural contributions of the African American Community through education and outreach.

Our vision is to continue to educate citizens about the past while looking to the future.

 

Lillie Sullivan
President

Bishop Percy Golden
Vice President

Kay Odom
Secretary

Katrina Hall
Treasurer

David Wainer
Board Attorney

Members

Hazel Martin

Charles Jones

Elizabeth Sullivan

Melissa Hardwick

Brittany Norris

Ken Jefferson

Michael Rickman

Charmelita Gilmore