Black History Month Minute: Local Bustling Businesses

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – Did you know, before segregation ended, African Americans had to make due and prosper in the face of hardships and adversity for the community to thrive. Many proud black neighborhoods in North Central Florida resemble very little of it’s past pride or community makeup. Today, Let’s learn about and honor the Bustling Black Businesses in the 5th Ave, Seminary Lane & Pleasant St. neighborhoods In life, businesses start & fail, come and go, but few leave behind a legacy within the community they served. From providing a needed service to assisting their fellow citizens through employment, training opportunities, or leadership. Here is a quick nostalgic visit back to these neighborhoods and some of the businesses and owners that impacted Gainesville for the better. Fletcher’s Pool Room/Cocktail Lounge (Green family), Mom’s Kitchen (the Young family), Safety Cab Company (Debose & Turners), Duncan Funeral Home, YT Parkers BBQ, Wig-Wam’s Pool Room (Mr A.W. Lane), Mitchell’s Chicken Wings, Fred’s Grill, The Lincoln Theater, Maggie’s Café, Reverend Cato’s Sundry, Crip McRae’s Speak-easy, Annie McRae’s Soul Food, a fish and meat market, numerous barbershops and beauty salons, a couple furniture stores, as well as small mom & pop corner grocery stores....