Historic Ward Rooming House

Originally constructed in 1925 by Shaddrack and Victoria Ward, the Historic Ward Rooming House is a premier example of adaptive reuse that preserves Overtown’s unique architectural heritage. The SEOPW CRA spearheaded a $1.05 million restoration and full-gut rehabilitation of the structure in 2010 to ensure its long-term survival. The renovation meticulously preserved its Mediterranean Revival and Bahamian Conch architectural influences while modernizing the facility with a new security system and an accessible lift. Today, the building serves as a professional art gallery, exhibition hall, and the official Visitor Center for Historic Overtown, managed in partnership with the Black Archives History and Research Foundation of South Florida.

‍

Community Impact

During the era of segregation, this rooming house provided a critical safe haven for African Americans and Native Americans who were denied accommodations in local hotels. By restoring this landmark, the SEOPW CRA has preserved a living tribute to the "Harlem of the South" and converted it into a vibrant cultural anchor for the Overtown Folklife Village. The gallery now hosts dynamic programming including poetry readings, live music, and the annual Overtown Rhythm and Arts Festival. This project successfully bridges the neighborhood's past and future, providing a dignified space for local artists to showcase their work while driving heritage tourism and economic activity along the NW 9th Street corridor.