Touchstones of the Community: African-American Business Pillars

3 Locations | Curated by Patrick Grey

Though for many Gainesville is only a temporary stop, the city has a rich history, and some of its businesses have historic significance. This is particularly true regarding black-owned businesses in Gainesville which, aside from gaining capital, also contributed to the African American community’s growth.

This tour looks at three significant businesses that provided both critical services and a sense of stability for GNV's black residents.

Established in 1914, the Chestnut Funeral Home has served the African American community in Gainesville for over one hundred years. The mortuary business was founded by Matthew E. Hughes and Charles S. Chestnut, Sr. in Gainesville, and finished constructing their Mission-style building for the…
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In 1946, William and Eunice Perryman bought the Postal Exchange building that would become the Perry Theater, and later the Cotton Club. Because of segregation laws at the time, the Perry Theater was opened to serve African Americans only which put it in direct competition with the established…
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Growing up in the Pleasant Street neighborhood, Charles W. Duval was a native Alachua County resident who stayed connected to his community throughout his life. A shoemaker by trade, he and his family lived alongside other members of his Pleasant Street community situated on N Garden Street (now NW…
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