ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — Visitors and residents in St. Johns County now have a new way to see and hear Black history with the launch of the Black Heritage Trail.

The self-guided tour features 20 historic sites across the county, sharing the stories of Black residents who helped shape the community. From the first free Black settlement at Fort Mose to Martin Luther King Jr.’s demonstrations during the Civil Rights Movement, the trail highlights the county’s rich history and looks forward to the future site of Florida’s Black History Museum.

Brenda Swann, director of grants and operations for the St. Johns Cultural Council, says some stories were difficult for residents to share but are important to preserve.

“Just to see them and hear them tell their stories and recognize that it was really hard for them… they were almost scared to come back, but they did. And to just be recognized and appreciated by the whole community was really moving,” Swann said.

The Cultural Council says the trail ensures these voices won’t be forgotten, giving residents and visitors a chance to see the places and hear the stories that helped shape St. Johns County.

To learn more about the trail and take the self-guided tour, visit the St. Johns Cultural Council website.