Welcome to the

Lee County Black History Society (LCBHS) 

 a living testament to the rich legacy, resilience, and creativity of African Americans  celebrating both the local heroes who shaped Fort Myers and the national trailblazers who changed the world.
Step into a story that began in 1994 with visionary founder Janice Cass, whose dream was to preserve, celebrate, and share the African-American experience in our community. Today, that vision lives on through our historic Williams Academy Black History Museum, cultural events, and educational programs that connect generations, instill hope and inspire pride for all.
 
Explore the landmarks and untold stories of the historic Dunbar community, the heart of Black heritage in Southwest Florida. From Black History Month celebrations and the inspiring Annual Prayer Breakfast, to the lively Juneteenth Festival, family family Holiday in the Park, and our signature fundraising experience  Museum After Dark  each event offers a powerful opportunity to learn, connect, and uplift. Whether you’re visiting in person or through our new Virtual Museum Tour, we invite you to experience the spirit of a people whose history continues to shape our shared future.
 
Join us  as a visitor, member, sponsor or donor  in preserving history by illuminating the past to ignite the future!

Sponsors

WILLIAMS ACADEMY MUSEUM

Preserving Our Legacy. Inspiring Future Generations. 

 
Standing proudly within Roberto Clemente Park, the Williams Academy Museum is more than a historic building — it’s a living monument to the determination and vision of a community that refused to be forgotten. 
 
Originally constructed during the 1912–1913 school year, Williams Academy became the first government-funded school for African-American students in Fort Myers — a symbol of hope, access, and progress in a segregated South. The structure that remains today, known as the 1942 Addition, is the last physical remnant of that legacy and now serves as the heart of the Lee County Black History Society’s museum campus. 
 
Named in honor of J.S. Williams, the Superintendent of Colored Schools in Fort Myers, the Academy stands as a reminder of the educators, students, and families who paved the way for opportunity through courage and perseverance. 
 
Today, the Williams Academy Museum continues that mission — inviting visitors to step into history, explore exhibits that celebrate local and national Black achievements, and support the ongoing work of preserving African-American heritage in Southwest Florida. 
 
Discover. Learn. Give. Be a part of history in motion. 

MEMBERSHIP

Join the Lee County Black History Society in celebrating, protecting, and uplifting the rich stories that built our community. Your membership helps support educational programs, museum exhibits, historical preservation, youth outreach, and cultural events that honor Black heritage in Lee County.

Community Supporter Membership

Perfect for individuals passionate about preserving Black history and culture in Lee County.
$ 25
99
Monthly
  • Annual membership card
  • Free admission to museum exhibits
  • Monthly newsletter + event updates
  • Member-only volunteer opportunities

Heritage Ambassador Membership

Great for families, educators, and advocates who want
deeper involvement
$ 39
99
Monthly
  • Discounts on special events and merchandise
  • Priority access to workshops and lectures
  • Recognition on the society’s website or newsletter
  • Family admission passes (up to 4)
Popular

Legacy Patron Membership

Designed for organizations, sponsors, and community leaders committed to long-term impact.
$ 59
99
Monthly
  • VIP invitations to premium events & receptions
  • Logo or name displayed on supporter wall
  • Exclusive behind-the-scenes tours with historians
  • Opportunity to sponsor programs or exhibits

Donation

Your support helps us preserve our history and build for the future.

nEWSLETTER

Your support helps us preserve our history and build for the future.

LCBHS Logo

Contact Information: 
Lee County Black History Society 
1936 Henderson Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33916 
Email: blackhistory@tlcbhs.org | Phone: (239) 332-8778 

Office Hours:  Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: By Appointment Only

©2023-2025 | Lee County Black History Society, Inc.  |   All Rights Reserved. LICENCE#

A 501C(3) organization was founded in 1994 by Janice Cass