Jasmine Harris and Charles E. Eady Are Redefining Black Heritage Through Art and Action

Jasmine Harris stands proudly in an art gallery, holding a book that honors the hidden stories of Hannibal Square, surrounded by vibrant works that reflect its rich legacy.

By Knowledge Born Allah Sunday, 7-27-25 VOD Newz

Exhibit showcasing the legacy of Richard Hall, Jr., a celebrated Tuskegee Airman and Hannibal Square Hero, through lifecasting art and historical preservation at the Crealdé School of Art.

Winter Park, FL – At the heart of the Hannibal Square Heritage Center, Jasmine Harris and Charles E. Eady are rewriting the narrative of Black history and culture, one story and one brushstroke at a time. Their work is a testament to the power of storytelling and art in preserving the legacy of African American communities, ensuring that the past informs and inspires the future.

Jasmine Harris admires the legacy of the matriarch for whom Moriah Church is named, as she points to her portrait and story in a display of historical photos.

Harris, a graduate student in Public History at the University of Central Florida, has become a vital force in the center’s mission to honor the history of Winter Park’s Black community. “This isn’t just about preserving history,” Harris said. “It’s about giving a voice to those who were silenced and ensuring their stories are never forgotten.” Her work includes curating exhibits, such as The Sage Project, which captures the oral histories of Hannibal Square’s elders, and leading educational programs that connect visitors to the community’s rich heritage.

Display highlighting "The Sage Project" at the Hannibal Square Heritage Center, showcasing narratives from six elders born in Winter Park, capturing the rich history and personal stories of the community.

The Hannibal Square Heritage Center, located in the historic Black neighborhood of Winter Park, serves as a living archive of resilience and culture. Harris’s efforts align with the center’s goal to educate and inspire through storytelling, as highlighted in a recent Q&A with the Hannibal Square Heritage Center. Her work builds on the foundation laid by the center’s previous leaders, as she seeks to expand its reach and impact. “Jasmine’s vision is to make history accessible and relevant to everyone,” said a colleague. “She’s not just preserving the past, she’s shaping the future.”

Mixed-media artist Charles Eady shares his mission to amplify the voices of free Blacks in the pre-Civil War South, using art to challenge historical narratives and promote social understanding.

Meanwhile, Charles E. Eady, a celebrated mixed-media artist, is using his craft to challenge perceptions and bring untold stories to light. His work, which focuses on the history of free Blacks in the pre-Civil War South, has garnered national attention. Eady’s Puzzled Peace Initiative, featured in The Orlando Times, is a robust response to the erasure of African American history from public education. “Art has the power to reframe narratives,” Eady explained. “Through my work, I aim to give a voice to those who lived with agency and resilience, even in the face of systemic oppression.”

"Charles Eady’s 'American Jockey' merges art and history, highlighting the unrecognized roles of Black equestrians through a vibrant and textured composition."

Eady’s paintings, such as American Jockey, highlight the overlooked contributions of Black equestrians and other historical figures. His art not only educates but also inspires viewers to question dominant narratives and seek a deeper understanding of history. “Charles’s work is a call to action,” Harris said. “It reminds us that history is not just something we study, it’s something we live and shape every day.”

Cover of "Hidden Freedom: The South Before Racism" by Charles E. Eady, a novel based on true documents, featuring a collage of historical imagery and text.

The collaboration between Harris and Eady exemplifies the intersection of history and art in preserving Black heritage. Their efforts underscore the importance of institutions like the Hannibal Square Heritage Center and Black museums across the country, which play a vital role in preserving African American history. As noted in Smithsonian Magazine, understanding systemic racism and its impact requires a commitment to education and preservation. Black museums, as highlighted by Afro.com, serve as vital spaces for this work, offering a platform for stories that might otherwise be lost.

A display of framed historical photographs and narratives, preserving the rich personal stories of Hannibal Square’s residents.

Harris and Eady’s work also underscores the importance of community engagement. As Harris continues to expand the center’s programs, she draws inspiration from the stories of Hannibal Square’s residents, whose resilience and contributions are celebrated in exhibits like the Unity Heritage Festival. Eady, on the other hand, uses his art to spark conversations about history and identity, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and embrace a more inclusive narrative.

Jasmine Harris explores the Hannibal Square timeline exhibit, highlighting significant historical events from 1850 to 1950 within the community.

“Preserving history is not just about looking back,” Harris said. “It’s about using the lessons of the past to build a better future.” Her sentiment is echoed by Eady, who believes that art and history have the power to heal and unite. Together, they are ensuring that the legacy of Hannibal Square and the broader African American experience continues to be a source of inspiration for future generations.

For more information about the Hannibal Square Heritage Center and its programs, visit their official website. To learn more about Charles E. Eady’s work and the Puzzled Peace Initiative, explore his interview with The Orlando Times.