History comes alive on this incredible walking tour through Florida's history.

Entrance archway to Eatonville, Florida with a clock and a sign, trees and blue sky in the background.

The itinerary begins in Maitland and concludes in Eatonville, where you can delve deeper into the past century.

The walking tour is a great way to learn about history in both Maitland and Eatonville.

It begins at Lake Lily Park, where our dedicated tour guides will describe the locations as we pass along our journey through the town.

A peaceful park scene with a pond, a fountain in the middle, surrounded by trees and grass.
Group of people gathered outdoors, listening to a man speaking into a megaphone, with informational signs nearby and houses in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Our History

We strive to commemorate the lives of Josiah Eaton, Lewis Lawrence, Charles Hungerford, Joe Clark, and the many citizens of Maitland. In 1887, these men, along with the 27 black founders of the historical town of Eatonville, worked together to create and unknowingly establish the oldest incorporated black municipality in America.

We have created a walking tour telling the story of the historical sites from Maitland, through Eatonville, and ending back in Maitland. With our tour, a series of storytelling events, advocacy, and partnerships, we share about these two beloved communities and work to preserve the spirit of the very sensitive land deal of its time. Through our work hope to continue spreading our message “We are better together.”   

In God We Trust

Eatonville Citizens

Meet Our Guides

Our walking tour guides are seasoned historians with over 30 years of expertise, as well as dedicated community leaders. They bring a unique blend of historical knowledge and local commitment to the Eatonville and Maitland communities.

John Beacham standing next to a Land Back sign representing 1887 Eatonville, FL

John Beacham

Founder & Tour Expert

Walking Tour Curator

Maitland Eatonville Historian

Dr Scott French

Dr Scott French

Maitland & Eatonville Historian

Beth Landa

Beth Landa

Tour Guides

Information Officer

Maitland–Eatonville Heritage Presenter

Tour group led by John Beacham outside the KOHA mural honoring Black artists and jazz musicians, with the words “Keeping our history alive.”

Collect Moments. Not Things.

Collect Moments. Not Things.

A tour of Eatonville is an opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of this town and its people. We offer a variety of tours that focus on different aspects of Eatonville’s past, from its founding to its present-day renaissance. Whether you’re interested in black history, Florida history, or just want to learn more about an amazing hidden gem, we have a tour that’s perfect for you. Book a tour with us today and experience Eatonville like never before!

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