On the evening of February 12, 2025, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens became a living archive of history as elders from Little Bahamas in Coconut Grove gathered to share their stories.
Through heartfelt recollections, tales of resilience, and reflections on the changing landscape of the Grove, this night with descendants of the Black Grove settlers and the GW Carver Alumni Association became more than just an event—it was a bridge between generations.
Growing Up in Little Bahamas
The evening began with personal accounts from community elders who painted vivid pictures of what life was like growing up in Coconut Grove. They spoke of unpaved streets lined with mango trees, days spent playing in the neighborhood, and the sense of family that extended beyond blood ties.
One speaker, Charles Whittle, recalled the village-like atmosphere, where every adult acted as a guardian to every child. “If you got into trouble on one side of town, by the time you got home, your mother already knew,” he laughed. Others, like Richard Curry, reminisced about the strong ties to the Bahamas, where traditions, dialects, and cuisine remained central to daily life. “Every house smelled like something good was cooking,” Curry shared. “Fish frying, pigeon peas boiling—you could always tell what was for dinner just by walking down the street.”
“These memories are more than nostalgia; they are proof of the enduring spirit of Little Bahamas,” said Dr. Valerie Patterson, whose family has deep roots in the community. “We carry these stories with us, but we must also pass them on.”
The Legacies of Little Bahamas
Music and dance have always been at the heart of Bahamian culture in Coconut Grove, and the elders shared songs and rhythms that defined their youth. One particularly moving moment came when Gary Allen, a poet and performer, delivered a spoken word piece titled Road to Independence. “Independence is earned by facing the storms, holding on when the battle rages on and on,” he proclaimed.
Athletics were another cornerstone of the community. The stories of Carver High School’s legendary football players and track stars highlighted how sports became an avenue for success and pride. Neil Cambridge, son of Edwin Walter Cambridge, spoke passionately about his father’s legacy: “My dad and his brothers were more than just athletes—they were role models, showing us what was possible.”
The significance of Carver High School’s sports programs was echoed by Dr. Richard Holton. “Coach Traz Powell believed in discipline and heart,” he said. “It didn’t matter how big you were—it mattered how much fight you had in you.”
Resilience and Change
A recurring theme throughout the evening was resilience. Speakers reflected on the struggles of segregation, displacement, and gentrification that threatened to erase their history. Theodore Johnson shared how teachers at Carver High inspired him to pursue a career in the arts: “Miss Vernon and Mr. Clyde Steffens saw my talent and pushed me to follow my passion. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Dr. Richard Holton expressed concern about the ongoing changes in Coconut Grove. “We see the transformation happening around us,” he said. “It’s heartbreaking to walk through the neighborhood and not see the same faces I grew up with. But that’s why we’re here—because if we don’t tell our stories, they will be erased.”
Carol Davis Henley Byrd, a key figure in preserving the history of the Grove, spoke about the importance of oral tradition. “Leona Cooper Baker always told us to write our stories down, to share them,” she said. “That’s the only way we can keep our history alive.”
Conclusion
The second annual Vizcaya Late: Little Bahamas was more than a gathering—it was a testament to the power of community and memory. The stories shared were not just personal reflections; they were pieces of a larger history that deserves recognition and preservation.
As the night concluded, one message was clear: the legacy of Little Bahamas is alive, and it will continue to thrive as long as these stories are told.
