The Reverend Samuel Delevoe Park is located on Sistrunk Boulevard in the historically African American section of northwest Ft Lauderdale.
This 34 acre park is named in honor of Samuel Delevoe (1936-1977). Delevoe was a veteran of the Korean War and after he was one of Ft. Lauderdale's first black police officers. At the time he was sworn in there were only three other black law enforcement officers. After Delevoe left the police force he became a community leader and political activist. He was one of the founders of the Minority Builders Coalition of Broward and the Black Coalition of Broward. The reverend honorific was in reference to his position in the community as a street preacher. In April of 1977 at the age of 41, Mr. Delevoe was murdered at his wife's real estate office leaving a void in the community. The formerly maned Riverbend Park was renamed in his honor. In 1979 Governor Bob Graham declared November 11th would be declared Samuel Delevoe Day in Florida.
Park amenities include an exercise path, basketball court, volley ball court, playground, outdoor fitness area, and an indoor computer lab. The park has a 17 acre lake with a fountain. Adjacent to the park is the African American Research Library and Cultural Center. Programs at the park include classes, club and association meetings, and After-School and Summer Recreation programs. I think Mr. Samuel Delevoe would be pleased to know that the park that bears his name is still bringing the...
Read moreAttended my cousin's baby shower and she's expecting her first bundle of joy! Although the event was very special for her it was stressful because we have a big family and the banquet hall inside was not large enough to accommodate a family of size. We didn't reach the maximum capacity limit, but I figured they were not prepared because they seemed to have a difficult time finding chairs so many of our family members including children had to stand while eating and or share a seat. This was very uncomfortable and unfortunate because this room was booked in advance and enough chairs should've been provided. When we went to locate the person on staff to assist us with this issue the person left the window unattended for an extended period of time. Towards the end of the event, finally appeared with about 5 chairs which still was not enough. However, when it was time to clean up the hall, suddenly people appeared from everywhere to help take up tables and chairs. I don't recommend large events such as baby showers or parties to be booked here. I don't think the staff here is very helpful either. They were nice but not...
Read moreThe security measures and park management practices employed by the same entity are highly questionable and unprofessional. They have deliberately disabled the park’s electricity supply, rendering it impossible for visitors to charge their devices without incurring a substantial fee. This action is particularly egregious in a country that prides itself on its freedom and democratic values. The park’s management’s conduct is comparable to that of the most abhorrent creatures on Earth. This park, among all the ones I have visited, stands out as the most unethical and poorly managed, lacking any semblance of...
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