This is supposed to be the history of what happened in Flagler County, but it’ s like there’ s no history of Black people.” of the Bridge
MEMORY:
This is supposed to be the history of what happened in Flagler County, but it’ s like there’ s no history of Black people.” of the Bridge
Residents remember where they attended school, worshipped, shopped, worked and gathered with friends. They recall the daily realities of segregation, the limits imposed by discrimination and the resilience required to navigate both.
“ We had to go down US1 to Old Dixie Highway through High Bridge to come out to A1A and the name of the beach was Cobbs Corner and that ' s where all the Blacks went— to Cobbs Corner. But we did not go through Flagler Beach.”— Larry Jones, Bunnell
Some memories are difficult to hear, including accounts of racial exclusion and reports of sundown restrictions. Others celebrate close-knit neighborhoods, devoted families, thriving churches, and communities that found strength and joy despite the obstacles they faced. Together, these voices reveal a richer and more complete history than any textbook or museum exhibit could capture.
Rather than dwelling on division, Both Sides of the Bridge seeks understanding. By preserving the memories of both Black and white residents, the project offers a fuller portrait of Flagler County and reminds us that history is never complete until everyone who lived it has a chance to speak.
Participants share their stories in their own words using established oral history methods, preserving not only historical events but also the emotions, traditions, humor and everyday experiences that rarely appear in written records. Along the way, interviews uncovered surprising local stories and inspired plans for a documentary that will bring these memories to an even wider audience.
Support from Florida Humanities, through a grant led by the African American Cultural Society for Voices of Memory: From Both Sides of the Bridge, has made possible a 10-minute documentary, the first step toward a feature-length film SIS hopes to complete. The documentary will become part of the permanent collections of Flagler County museums, ensuring these stories remain accessible for future generations.
VOLUME III 2026 | 27 |