JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville History Center released on Wednesday this year’s list of historic properties in Jacksonville that are currently facing the threat of deterioration and potential loss.
The list of buildings includes vital pieces of the city’s heritage.
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Snyder Memorial Methodist Church
This Gothic Revival church, originally known as Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, was considered the most endangered on the list.
It was built between 1902 and 1903, and it’s located across from City Hall on North Laura Street.
Historically, the church played a crucial role during the civil rights movement, serving as a refuge for Black demonstrators during the Ax Handle Saturday events. Currently owned by the City of Jacksonville, it has remained vacant for much of the past decade.
The Laura Street Trio
Comprising three historic buildings, the Laura Street Trio includes:
Florida Life Building: Designed by Henry J. Klutho, this 11-story structure was completed between 1911 and 1912 and is notable for its architectural significance.
Bisbee Building: Constructed between 1908 and 1909, this building also reflects Klutho’s Prairie style.
RELATED | Jacksonville files default motion seeking public auction of Laura Street Trio
Old Florida National Bank (Marble Bank): Built in 1902 and designed by Edwin H. Glidden in the Classical Revival style, this bank features intricate architectural details. The City of Jacksonville acquired the Trio in 2002, and renovations began in 2011 to convert it into a Courtyard Marriott Hotel. However, in April 2025, the city filed a default motion against Laura Trio LLC, citing over $800,000 in unpaid fines.
Annie Lytle Public School
Constructed in 1917 and designed by architect Rutledge Holmes, this Neo-Classical school has been unoccupied since the 1970s. Despite its historic designation, it faces ongoing threats of demolition.
Mount Olive A.M.E. Church
The original sanctuary of Mount Olive A.M.E. Church was built in 1887. By 1920, the congregation had outgrown this structure, leading to the construction of a new building designed by Richard L. Brown, Jacksonville’s first Black architect. This church holds significant cultural importance for the African American community in Jacksonville.
Charles E. Bennett Federal Building
This 1-story building, completed in 1966, is named after U.S. Representative Charles E. Bennett, who was known for his commitment to ethics in government. The building is currently listed for potential sale as a “non-core” property.
Ambassador Hotel
Completed in 1923, this structure was initially recognized as Jacksonville’s first major downtown apartment building. It is now being renovated for conversion into a LaQuinta Inn & Suites.
Florida Baptist Convention Building
Built between 1924 and 1925, this landmark was the first of its kind in the nation constructed for a state Baptist organization. It has since been restored and transformed into a mixed-use space.
JAX Brewing Company
Established in 1913, this brewery played a pivotal role in Jacksonville’s history and is notable for its expansion in anticipation of the repeal of Prohibition.
Federal Reserve Building
Designed by Henrietta Dozier, Jacksonville’s first female architect, this building is being redeveloped into a mixed-use space after standing abandoned for over 40 years.
Fire Station Museum
Originally established in 1886, this museum has historical significance, particularly as it was staffed entirely by African American firefighters.
The list highlights the rich architectural and cultural heritage of Jacksonville, emphasizing the critical need for preservation efforts to safeguard these historic properties.
