African Americans referred to Sarasota’s ‘first Black community’ as “Overtown,” which meant that it was near downtown where most African Americans worked. It was an approximately 20 acre district located about five city blocks north of downtown Sarasota. There was a section known as “Black Bottom.”

Most of the early black pioneers and later arrivals came to Sarasota and Overtown looking for a better way of life.

They faced the challenges of racism and segregation at the onset. Clearly, an indomitable spirit emerged. A strong faith carried them through many “dangers, toils and snares”

Hear the history of Overtown come to life. Overtown Voices are a part of our library of oral history Interviews. Included are interviews of Mary Mack, Dorothy G. Smith, and Wade Harvin.