In 2006, the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum opened its doors to the people of St. Petersburg for the first time
The museum, just a few blocks north of what was once the “red line” of segregation, has been preserving, interpreting and presenting black history to the surrounding communities for the past nine years.
But in less than six months, it may close its doors for good.
For almost a year, the St. Petersburg Housing Authority, which owns the land the museum is on, has disclosed its wishes to clear its books of its commercial properties. The fact that it hasn’t extended a deal to the museum, however, has left many scratching their heads.
“Something just doesn’t line up,” said Cranstan Cumberbatch, the museum’s curator and office manager. “They just want the property off their books with no clear reasoning as to why.”
The Housing Authority approached St. Petersburg College in May, asking the college to take over the museum. After noticing the tension between the Housing Authority and the museum, SPC President Bill Law said the college would not get involved until the museum and the Housing Authority resolved their conflict, according to the Tampa Bay Times.
Not once, Cumberbatch said, has the Housing Authority attempted to work with the museum.
The Housing Authority sees the situation much differently, however. According to Audra Butler, the Housing Authority’s communications officer, it simply plans to sell its remaining commercial properties and reinvest the proceeds into the development of further affordable housing.
“When the property goes up for sale, anyone is welcome to make an offer, including the museum,” said Butler. “There is no deal with St. Petersburg College.”
If the museum were to approach the Housing Authority with funding in place, Butler said that working out a private deal is certainly a possibility. In the event the land is purchased by the city of St. Petersburg, the museum’s fate would be in its hands. Otherwise, it will belong to the highest bidder.
The building, which started as a community center, has evolved into more than a museum. It has an art gallery and serves as a venue for various events, including private parties, weddings, graduations and concerts. It is also within walking distance of local treasures, such as the Manhattan Casino, Lorene’s Fish and Crab House, Sylvia’s Restaurant and the Royal Theatre.
The lush, colorful garden that reaches across most of the museum’s backyard was added in 2008 with the help of funding from the Leadership St. Pete program.
“This building has always been a major part of the community, and it’s a shame we may lose it,” said Cumberbatch. “Without the museum, the community will lack substance, a sense of solidarity and an affordable place for special events.”
Although the main focus of the museum is to display African American artwork and historical artifacts, its interests don’t end there.
Aside from exhibiting art and offering a spacious, visually appealing venue for private events, the museum shows films, hosts game nights and holds discussions on important issues, such as race relations, homophobia, police brutality and community improvement.
The museum’s fate may be less grim than the staff believes, but the coming months will still be anything but easy.
Regardless of how imminent the closing of the museum may appear, Cumberbatch said it won’t be going down without a fight.
Considering that the museum was awarded a Hope VI revitalization grant, which isn’t set to expire until 2031, board members have enlisted an attorney to look into the legalities of its impending shutdown.
As for now, Cumberbatch said the museum will continue to plan future exhibits as it fights to keep its doors open. There are no plans for eventual relocation; they want the museum to stay where it was founded, within the community it serves.
“We’re fighting until the last day, holding out in hope that something changes,” said Cumberbatch. “I will lose a personal treasure and a second home if we are forced to close our doors.”
IF YOU GO:
Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 12-5 p.m. or call for appointment.
Location: 2240 9th Avenue S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
