Henry Reeves Park — Attraction in Miami

Henry Reeves Park is located in the historic Overtown neighborhood of Miami. Overtown was incorporated as a colored neighborhood in 1896 during segregation. It was the place where Henry Flagler's black railroad workers lived while building the infrastructure of Miami. Overtown is the second oldest neighborhood in Miami. During the 1920's, it was home to D.A. Dorsey, one of the first black millionaires in the south. After WWII it became the epicenter of black culture and was known as the Broadway of the South. Many famous entertainers stayed here when performing in Miami like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Nat King Cole. In the 1950's, the area suffered an economic decline and in the 1960's many residents were displaced by the construction of I-95. Almost 40 percent of the people live in poverty but there is hope. I see a lot of neighborhood improvements and new businesses are opening like the world class restaurant Red Rooster, Overtown.

Henry Reeves Park is named in honor of Henry Ethelbert Sigismund Reeves was born on November 16, 1882 in Author's Town, San Salvador in the Bahamas. After moving to Miami he was the publisher of the Miami Times, the oldest and largest black-owned newspaper in the southeast of the United States. For over 80 years the newspaper gave a voice to the African American Community through the Miami Times.

Henry Reeves Park recently received a brand new play ground in December of last year. Using money from the Miami Forever Fun bond, the outdated 20 year old playground was replaced with rubber surfacing, shade structure, swings, interactive features, and play equipment for kids of all ages. The new playground equipment is part of the revitalization of the community. In addition to new play equipment the park also has open green space, outdoor fitness equipment, a basketball court, picnic pavilions and grills. After school programs and camps for kids are offered at the Culmer Community...

This park gave me a different outlook, keeping so many kids out of trouble and spreading love through the entire neighborhood. I was one of the many blessed kids that got to call this place home. With so much to do, this place never disappoint. I wonder if the big brother, Big sister program is...

Beautiful, calm and quiet place for picnic but I would suggest to be careful while you are here because I saw snatchers snaching eatables from people. Otherwise it's good....