American Beach was founded on Amelia Island FL in 1935 – 90 years ago – by millionaire Abraham Lincoln (A.L.) Lewis as Florida’s first Black Beach Resort.
An oasis for Black beach-goers in a time when segregation and Jim Crow laws prevented them from sharing beaches, American Beach was home to a number of restaurants, hotels, night clubs, shops and more. On the weekends, beachgoers in the thousands would visit, among them celebrities such as Zora Neale Hurston, Ray Charles, Hank Aaron and James Brown, the King of Soul. Rumor has it that His Majesty was actually turned away from Evans Rendezvous, one of the town’s popular nightclubs. The resort town thrived until 1964, when Hurricane Dora devastated the area. Shortly after, the passing of the Civil Rights Act and desegregation meant that people were able to visit beaches closer to home.
Today, visitors can enjoy the beach and visit the A.L. Lewis Museum at American Beach to learn more about the African Americans who found triumph over segregation and disfranchisement. Coast One Tours is another option for a personal, up-close tour of the historical area, including each of the Historical Markers. Visit Amelia Island year-round (not just in Feb. for Black History Month) to explore this rich past and enjoy a beautiful, historical beach! Here’s an itinerary for Inspo.