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Ribbon-cutting ceremony will honor the legacy of Lakeland’s first Black neighborhood LAKELAND, FL (November 12, 2025) - The Morehead Community was Lakeland’s first Black neighborhood, founded in the 1880s by Black railroad workers and their families. Although the homes and churches were relocated during redevelopment in the early 1970s, the stories, achievements, and contributions of the neighborhood’s residents remain an important part of Lakeland’s history. Two spellings, one community — The City of Lakeland reviewed historical records to determine the most accurate spelling of the community’s name. Early written references, dating back to the late 1800s, use the single “o” spelling — Morehead. Over time, the spelling Moorehead also appeared in local memory and personal accounts, reflecting the way many families came to know the neighborhood. Both spellings represent a community filled with pride, resilience, and significance. The City acknowledges the two historical spellings and uses both spellings in this exhibit to honor all residents and descendants of this community. “This new plaza reflects Lakeland’s commitment to recognizing the people and communities who helped build our city,” said Shawn Sherrouse, City Manager. “Morehead was a place of strength, faith, and family. We are honored to preserve its legacy for generations to come.” About the City of Lakeland The City of Lakeland, founded in 1885, is one of the largest municipalities in Central Florida and is home to more than 120,000 residents. Lakeland is dedicated to historic preservation, civic engagement, and community partnership through programs that connect residents to their city’s past, present, and future. - End -
Ribbon-cutting ceremony will honor the legacy of Lakeland’s first Black neighborhood
LAKELAND, FL (November 12, 2025) - The Morehead Community was Lakeland’s first Black neighborhood, founded in the 1880s by Black railroad workers and their families. Although the homes and churches were relocated during redevelopment in the early 1970s, the stories, achievements, and contributions of the neighborhood’s residents remain an important part of Lakeland’s history.
Two spellings, one community —
The City of Lakeland reviewed historical records to determine the most accurate spelling of the community’s name. Early written references, dating back to the late 1800s, use the single “o” spelling — Morehead. Over time, the spelling Moorehead also appeared in local memory and personal accounts, reflecting the way many families came to know the neighborhood. Both spellings represent a community filled with pride, resilience, and significance. The City acknowledges the two historical spellings and uses both spellings in this exhibit to honor all residents and descendants of this community.
“This new plaza reflects Lakeland’s commitment to recognizing the people and communities who helped build our city,” said Shawn Sherrouse, City Manager. “Morehead was a place of strength, faith, and family. We are honored to preserve its legacy for generations to come.”
About the City of Lakeland The City of Lakeland, founded in 1885, is one of the largest municipalities in Central Florida and is home to more than 120,000 residents. Lakeland is dedicated to historic preservation, civic engagement, and community partnership through programs that connect residents to their city’s past, present, and future.
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