JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville city council members are pushing for a significant change to honor a local legend with a proposed bill to rename Oakland Park after Dr. Eartha White, a renowned philanthropist and humanitarian who left a lasting mark on the River City.
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Oakland Park, located at the corner of Ionia and Union Streets, has been a staple of Jacksonville for over a century. The park has basketball courts, swings, and a playground, serving as a community hub.
Historically, it was the city’s first playground for African American children, made possible through the efforts of Dr. Eartha White.
Councilman Jimmy Peluso introduced the bill, which calls for Oakland Park to be renamed “Eartha M. M. White Historical Park.” The bill also has support from Councilwoman Ju’Coby Pittman, who serves as president and CEO of the Clara White Mission, which Dr. White founded with her mother.
“It just reminds me of her humanitarian work that she did on this side of town, and that people still care,” Pittman said.
Dr. White’s contributions to Jacksonville are vast. In addition to founding the Clara White Mission, White was instrumental in establishing Mercy Hospital, coordinating orphanage services, employment training programs, and founding Florida’s first historical African American museum.
She is also credited with establishing the “Old Folks Home,” which provided housing and care for elderly African Americans.
Pittman said the idea to rename Oakland Park came from a member of the community.
“..And [they] said, ‘We need to name something after Miss White,‘” Pittman said. “Miss White was one of those women who was a quiet storm, and she didn’t want much recognition. All she wanted was for people to do the right thing and continue walking in her footsteps.”
Additionally, the Jacksonville Historic Preservation Commission recently voted unanimously to recommend the name change. This move is seen as a fitting tribute to Dr. White’s life of service, especially as Women’s History Month comes to a close.
The bill is scheduled for public hearings in April and May. Community members are encouraged to participate in the discussions and share their thoughts on this important change.
Renaming Oakland Park in honor of Dr. Eartha White would serve as a lasting tribute to her legacy and contributions to Jacksonville. As the city reflects on its history, this proposal highlights the enduring impact of a woman who dedicated her life to service and community improvement.
