JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Three new historical markers are now telling the story of Jacksonville’s role in the civil rights movement — and the national history that unfolded right here in Northeast Florida.
The markers highlight key moments tied to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who spent significant time in North Florida during the Civil Rights Movement, including frequent visits to nearby St. Augustine.
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Marker near the State Attorney’s Office
Near the state attorney’s office in the LaVilla neighborhood, one marker marks the site where King appeared before a U.S. District Court in 1964. The court appearance was connected to civil rights demonstrations taking place in St. Augustine.
Marker near the St. Johns River
A second marker, closer to the St. Johns River, marks the site of the old courthouse — a building that was recently demolished. According to the marker, King was arrested and processed there on June 11, 1964, after attempting to integrate the lunch counters at the Monson Motor Lodge in St. Augustine. He stayed overnight at the jail.
Marker at the Clara White Mission
Back in LaVilla, a third marker stands at the site of the Clara White Mission. Eartha Mary Magdalene White provided King with a place to stay, food, and support during his time in the area. During segregation, the nationally known preacher and civil rights leader could not go everywhere — but this was a safe place for him to rest.
The three markers offer a glimpse into the national civil rights history that played out across Northeast Florida more than six decades ago.