Discover Durkeeville

"Where the past meets future, change will begin."

A Walk Through History.

Durkeeville’s history is a testament to the resilience and growth of Jacksonville’s Black community during a time of segregation. Established in the 1930s, the neighborhood became a haven for middle-class African Americans, including professionals like doctors, educators, and religious leaders. The North Jacksonville Street Railway, a Black-owned streetcar line, played a key role in the area’s development, connecting Durkeeville to the heart of the city and spurring economic growth through local businesses and institutions like Edward Waters College.

Durkeeville Today

Jacksonville leaders launch 'Miracle on Myrtle' study to revitalize Durkeeville neighborhood

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$200,000 going towards future rivatlization of historic Durkeeville

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City study will look at the unfulfilled promises, needs of historic Durkeeville neighborhood

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Learn Even More, Check Out The Museum

Dr. Durkee

In 1937, Durkeeville became home to one of the nation’s earliest federally funded housing projects, a 215-unit development that stood as a model for public housing across the country. Named after Dr. J.H. Durkee, a white native of New York who settled in Jacksonville after serving as a Union Military Officer of the Civil war, who had owned much of the land, this project represented a significant achievement in Black housing efforts during the era. The neighborhood also housed important cultural landmarks, such as J.P. Smalls Baseball Park, where the Jacksonville Red Caps of the Negro Leagues played, and educational institutions like Old Stanton High School, the first Black high school in Florida.

"Sometimes you have to create what you want to be a part of."

- Uknown

We Thrive

Durkeeville's story is not just about survival; it's about creating a thriving, self-sustaining community amidst the challenges of segregation. The neighborhood remains a symbol of Black excellence, unity, and perseverance in Jacksonville.