According to the City of Tampa, on November 14, the Vinik Family Foundation donated $1 million in funding to support one of Tampa Bay’s most important historic gems, the Jackson Rooming House.
“As Tampa continues to grow and change, it is critical that we invest in preserving the unique and valuable history of those who laid the foundation for our progress,” said Jeff Vinik, owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning, in a press release.
Built in 1901 by Moses and Sarah Jackson, the Jackson Rooming House was a safe haven for African Americans during segregation. The house was a regular stopping point to many prominent Black entertainers such as Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole and even had Martin Luther King swing by for a visit.
Shutdown in 1989, the Jackson House was then later added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
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Through a partnership with the Mayor Jane Castor, the Jackson Foundation –started by Moses and Sarah Jackson’s grandson Willie Robinson, Jr– will attempt to receive additional grant funding for the restoration of the Jackson Rooming House.
Since February 2013, Dr. Carolyn Hepburn Collins has been leading the effort to preserve the Jackson House. When acting as the NAACP president, Dr. Collins teamed up with the late Mr. Robinson and many other community leaders on the mission to impacting Tampa’s local history.
“On behalf of the Jackson House Foundation Board of Directors, we are eternally grateful for the generous time and resources that have made saving the Jackson House a reality,” said Dr. Carolyn Hepburn Collins. “From the support of Mayor Castor and the city council, to the infusion of critical support from Mr. and Mrs. Vinik, we are thankful and we encourage everyone to join this effort to preserve our history.”
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