Eatonville Celebrates 138 Years of History, Resilience, and Community

Community members gather under colorful tents to celebrate Eatonville's 138th Anniversary, with a backdrop of palm trees and a historic clock tower.

The historic town of Eatonville, Florida, marked its 138th anniversary with a three-day Founders Day celebration from August 14 to 16, 2025. As one of the first all-Black municipalities in the United States, Eatonville’s annual event honored its rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring legacy. The festivities brought together residents, visitors, and leaders to reflect on the town’s past while looking toward its future.

The celebration kicked off on Thursday with the Mayor’s Business Appreciation Luncheon, recognizing local businesses that contribute to Eatonville’s growth and community spirit. Friday’s Back-to-School event provided free school supplies, creative stations, and giveaways for children, ensuring they are prepared for the upcoming academic year. The event culminated on Saturday with the Founder’s Day Celebration, featuring live music, local vendors, a history walk at Town Hall, and free food for attendees.

Mary Davis-Johnson Executive Director of Children Enriched With Opportunities

“Eatonville is more than a town, it’s a symbol of resilience and self-determination,” said Mary Davis-Johnson, Executive Director of CEO-Children Enriched with Opportunities. “It is my duty to equip the future leaders of tomorrow today with the tools for success, so the past horrors don’t repeat themselves today.” Davis-Johnson’s organization played a key role in the event, offering educational resources and creative activities for children.

Mural made by the youth of Eatonville of Zora Neale Hurston

Founded in 1887, Eatonville has long been a beacon of Black excellence and cultural preservation. Known as the hometown of celebrated author Zora Neale Hurston, the town continues to inspire through its commitment to education, history, and community engagement. The Founders Day celebration highlighted this legacy, with events designed to honor the past while fostering a sense of unity and pride among attendees.

The event also served as a reminder of Eatonville’s ongoing efforts to preserve its historical significance. The town’s leadership and residents have worked tirelessly to protect its heritage, as detailed on the Town of Eatonville’s website. The celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on these efforts and to educate visitors about the town’s unique place in American history.

For those who attended, the event was more than just a celebration; it was a call to action to continue supporting Eatonville’s mission. As highlighted in this CBS News article, the town faces challenges in preserving its land and legacy amidst development pressures. Events like Founders Day remind us of the importance of protecting such cultural treasures for future generations.

Eatonville’s Founders Day celebration was a testament to the power of community and the enduring impact of its history. As the town continues to thrive, it remains a shining example of what can be achieved through unity, resilience, and a commitment to preserving the past while building a brighter future.

For more information about Eatonville and its Founders Day celebration, visit the official website. To learn more about Mary Davis-Johnson and her work with CEO-Children Enriched with Opportunities, visit her LinkedIn profile or the CEO website.