An Insider's Look at Black History Month in Pensacola
Sometimes it’s fun just to learn, other times it’s learning how to have fun. Black History Month in Pensacola is just that, a time of learning and celebration. This gives me (and so many of my friends) the chance to celebrate and reflect on the beautiful and strong history of African-Americans in Pensacola. Won’t you join me?
An explorer named Esteban the Moor
I enjoy learning the names of early African, European and Caribbean people who explored our shores in the 1500s. I love the backstories and tales of exploration as they traveled with the early Spanish conquistadors. As I learn about them – I can’t help but wonder things like: What did they bring with them to remind them of their homeland? What food did they miss the most? And what do they think of mullet?
One such explorer was Esteban the Moor, sometimes called Estevanico, a Moroccan-born around 1500. According to the children’s book, “Do You Know Estevanico?” by Pensacolian and historian Jeremie Samuels and masterfully illustrated by Carter J. Gaston, he was one of only four survivors of a Spanish expedition in search of jewels and other treasures that brought them through Pensacola, eventually landing in Mexico.
Good food, education and art in a historic African-American community
History Tours and a Trip to the Beach
A trip to Pensacola usually starts and ends at the beach — so in this case, head to Johnson Beach at Perdido Key. As a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Johnson Beach has one of Florida’s best views of the Gulf. It’s a most enjoyable and relaxing location to fish from, and it’s a great place to bring a basket of goodies for a romantic – or family – getaway for the day. It was named for Rosamond Johnson, Jr., the first African-American and one of the first in the county to die in the Korean Conflict. For his bravery, he posthumously received a Purple Heart. Honor his bravery, and the sacrifices of the many African-American men and women who bravely served in defense of our country, by enjoying Johnson Beach.
I love Black History Month. It’s fun. It’s educational. It’s all about me. And it’s all about you. Join in and celebrate the month right here in Pensacola.
SUPPORT LOCAL BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES
You may also be interested in...
Five Reasons to Getaway to Pensacola this Winter
Traditionally, the mention of Pensacola summons images of lazy days relaxing on sugar-white sands as the emerald green waves lap at your bare feet. Pensacola summers are hard to beat, but our winters might actually have an edge. I present five pieces of evidence to support this radical claim:
10 Fun Free Things to do in Pensacola
Needing inspiration for a fun and inexpensive way to spend your time in the Pensacola Bay Area?
Enjoy the Local Life in East Pensacola
Pensacola’s beautiful beaches and historic downtown make us a great destination. If you want to see where the locals hang out, explore East Pensacola (and get outside while you're at it, too!)
