The Eatonville Living History Museum
Don’t forget to follow the path at the back of the village to get you to the juke joint where you can hear Shug Avery (Color Purple) sing her song! Beautiful art displayed on the walls too.
The Eatonville Living History Museum was created by Soull Starlight (formerly soulsofree resident) in 2021, to pay homage to the strength and beauty of the African American experience through an examination of pivotal Black literature and life in a Freedom Town.
One of Soul’s favorite books and a representation of the freedom experienced during this time is “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston. In the museum you’ll find soundbites from the movie adaptation, as well as a representation of the general store as portrayed in the book and movie. Other literary works featured include “The Secret Life of Bees” by Sue Monk Kidd, “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker, and more, and can be accessed by walking around the town.
The Eatonville Living History Museum seeks to represent the hope and reserve of the African American community, and to pay respect for the trailblazers and forward thinkers who pushed for equality and freedom during times of great change. The museum serves as a snapshot of life as it were for those who lived in a Freedom Town, and includes education that shares portraits of lives, both real and fictional.
All are welcome to come wander!
Owl's Eye 