Exploring the LaVilla Museum

Located in the Ritz Theater, the LaVilla museum is a living legacy that connects us to our past through images, objects and information that has been carefully handed down through many generations.

It is a work-in-progress – growing and thriving from the care and nurturing people who cherish the past and have faith in the future. It is a labor of love – constructed piece by piece by hands that used and saved and donated every item on display or in our inventory for use later. It is as humble as a patchwork quilt made from bits and pieces of our lives and as elegant as the finest tapestry woven from costly thread.

The museum houses a permanent exhibit of the history of African Americans in northeast Florida. It replicates scenes of everyday life, documents the past with photographs and artifacts and features a special presentation on native sons James Weldon Johnson and John Rosamond Johnson called Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing.

The gallery is spacious and features a wide variety of exhibits, including fine art collections, folk art, local art, and history exhibitions throughout the year. As well as educations programs for children and schools.

https://www.coj.net/Departments/Ritz+Theatre+and+La+Villa+Museum/LaVilla+Museum.htm




 



A tribute to former Jacksonville resident and Civil Rights leader, Philip Randolph.





The Woolworth counter and stools where Civil Rights sit-in demonstrations were held. 





The Harlem of the South: Back when there was life and buildings on Ashley Street. 

















James Weldon Johnson tells his life story, including a segment about growing up in Jacksonville. 









 


Museum Hours & Admission

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday- Friday
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday
2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Museum Admission:

Adults - $6.00
Children & Seniors - $3.00
Groups of 25 or more - $5.00 for Adults
$3.00 for children & seniors

For more information: https://www.coj.net/Departments/Ritz+Theatre+and+La+Villa+Museum/LaVilla+Museum.htm