An exhibition at the Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum sheds light on the cultural history of Overtown, a predominantly Black neighborhood in Miami, during the era of legal segregation. Titled “Anything but a Slum: Miami-Overtown Before I-95/395,” the exhibition runs through Friday, Nov. 1, offering an exploration of a community that flourished despite systemic challenges.
Curator Jordan Rogers explains that the exhibition was inspired by two main themes: the vibrant culture of Overtown and the impact of urban planning on Black communities. “Overtown was a site of pleasure for Black residents and tourists,” says Rogers. “I wanted to highlight both its cultural contributions and the consequences of automobile-centric development.
” Rogers says he delved into archives, following leads wherever they took him. “I spent several weeks collecting materials on the target time and place. The theme of Black leisure leapt out at me from the mountains of pictures and documents on my desk,” he recounts.
This approach allowed him to uncover a rich tapestry of life in Overtown, highlighting how Black tourism spurred economic and cultural development in the area. Using photographs, archival videos, audio recordings, and historical artifacts, the exhibition captures the essence of life in Overtown before the construction of I-95 and I-395 changed its landscape. Visitors will discover images and stories of celebrities such as Nat King Cole, Joe Louis, and Sam Cooke, wh.