Frenchtown (Tallahassee) facts for kids
Frenchtown is a historic neighborhood in Tallahassee, Florida. It is known for being the oldest African American community in the state.
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How Frenchtown Began
Frenchtown started in the 1800s when people from France moved to the area. They came because of something called the Lafayette Land Grant on July 4, 1825. This grant gave a French hero, Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, a piece of land in the U.S. He chose land in Florida. Many of his friends and people he knew also moved there and started their lives.
A Look at Frenchtown's Past
The French settlers who stayed in Florida, instead of moving to New Orleans or back to France, lived in the Frenchtown area. After the Civil War, many African Americans who had been freed moved to Frenchtown. This land was available because it was low and not considered the best land at the time.
In the early 1900s, Frenchtown became a busy place with many growing businesses. Famous musicians lived or played here. For example, Ray Charles lived in this community from 1940 to 1945. Brothers Nat Adderley and Cannonball Adderley also played music here when they were younger. Places like the Red Bird Club and Cafe DeLuxe were popular spots for music. "Lawyer Smith and his Band" played there for 30 years!
In the 1960s, Frenchtown faced some challenges. However, the community has worked hard to preserve its history. The Woman's Working Band House, built in 1921, is a special building in Frenchtown. It is now a jazz club where talented musicians from all over the world perform. This restored building shows the important work African American women did to help their community.
Where is Frenchtown Located?
Frenchtown is located northwest of downtown Tallahassee. The city's planning department describes its borders. To the north, it's Seventh Avenue and Alabama Street. To the east, it's Bronough Street. Tennessee Street is to the south, and Woodward Avenue is to the west. Before the 1970s, Frenchtown was even bigger. It stretched south to Park Avenue, including the land where the LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library is today.
Schools in Frenchtown
Students in Frenchtown attend schools managed by Leon County Schools. Most children go to Riley Elementary School or Bond Elementary School. Some might go to Ruediger Elementary School. For middle school, students are divided between Griffin Middle School and Raa Middle School. High school students attend either Leon High School or Godby High School.
At the north end of Macomb Street, you'll find the Old Lincoln High School. This building is now a community center. It stopped being a school in 1967. This was when African American students were allowed to attend the previously all-white Leon High School.
