Perry Harvey Sr. Park
1000 East Harrison Street, Tampa, FL 33602
Hours open
Monday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday:
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Photos
Location & Phone number
About the Business
Perry Harvey Sr. Park, located at 1000 East Harrison Street in Tampa, Florida, is a historic park and tourist attraction that pays tribute to the once-thriving African American neighborhood known as The Scrub. Established just after the Civil War, The Scrub was home to a vibrant community of newly-freed slaves who built homes in a palmetto thicket outside of Tampa.
During its peak from 1900 to 1930, The Scrub's population quadrupled and the Central Avenue Business District became a bustling hub of over 200 African American businesses. The area was known for its thriving music scene, hosting performances as a stop on the Chitlin' Circuit, a network of venues for African American musicians during the era of segregation.
The construction of I-4 and urban renewal projects in the 1960s led to the decline of Central Avenue, eventually resulting in the closure of the last business in 1974. Perry Harvey Sr. Park now stands as a tribute to the rich history of the area, with unique artwork that tells the story of the African American community and Historic Central Avenue.
One of the park's highlights is the sculptures by artist James Simon, depicting musicians, dancers, and a jukebox that reflect the importance of music in the district's culture. Rufus Seder's LIFETILES murals showcase the history of The Scrub and Central Avenue through historic photographs and storytelling, exploring themes such as the Early Years, Social and Religious Life, Civil Rights, and more.
A bronze statue of Perry Harvey Sr., created by artist Joel Randell, honors the influential figure who played a key role in improving the lives of Tampa's African American community. The park serves as a reminder of the resilience and contributions of those who once called The Scrub and Central Avenue home, inviting visitors to learn about the area's rich heritage and cultural significance.
Reviews
"We had the pleasure of experiencing BBQ Love Fest put together by the Brisket Shoppe in West Tampa. The event was amazing and the history of the park struck deep to the core. A truly rich piece of Tampa History."
"Beautiful place to visit alone, with pets, or friends/family. Well kept park. Great to stop and eat, enjoy the sun, enjoy the view, etc. public restrooms available. Occasionally events are held here."
"Went to a art show here , it’s a nice lil park has area for skateboarding n bikes"
"Awesome for biking and roller skating or bladding stunts they have restrooms and a water feature for any age. Love, it had so much fun"
"Such an amazing park! It was clean & practically empty(Sunday at 4:30pm). I love that there’s so many things to do there. The statues are beautiful & reading about some historical facts was another highlight. I wasn’t able to see the whole park but the little I did experience was definitely worth visiting again & again!"
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