JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Roaring 20s were full of style, music and entertainment. At the heart of it – Jacksonville’s LaVilla neighborhood, called the "Harlem of the South."
“There’s so much of Jacksonville history that was a big part of the music industry in blues and jazz,” Adonnica Toler, administrator for Ritz Museum, said.
Ray Charles' musical career launched in LaVilla, and songwriters for Frank Sinatra and Elvis were born here. In 1929, Ritz Theatre opened as a movie house for blacks, who at the time were not allowed to watch films with white people.
It was an entertainment outlet for a budding demographic.
“We have some really great stories of people coming here and apparently, there was great French fries to eat out of the greasy, brown paper bag,” Toler continued with a smile.
Eventually, Ritz became a venue for entertainers and performers. Today, it serves as a teaching tool for local youth and more.
“We have things that are directly connected to the people who we're talking about – so they bring in their family and friends and say, 'Remember this?'” Toler explained.
From Bob Hayes' 1964 Olympics track shoes to a replica beauty shop to singer Billy Daniels' clothes and memorabilia – the museum has a diverse collection of artifacts.
Toler said as long as she can help it, it's here to stay.
“It’s important for me as an African-American to make sure that that history is preserved, because much of American history is African-American history."
A little known fact about the Ritz Theatre? It was the first building in Jacksonville to have neon lights.
For more information on tours, exhibits and performances, visit http://www.ritzjacksonville.com/
Cox Media Group
