Miami MoCAAD's Overtown Interactive Mural Treasure Hunt

OVERtown: Our Family Tree by Miami - based artist Anthony “Mojo” Reed II (49' x 14') Mural Location: Historic Lawson E. Thomas Law Office Building, 1021 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33136

“OVERtown: Our Family Tree”

“Historic Overtown. A place formerly known as “Colored Town” that garnered prominent Black Figures such as Sam Cooke, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong in the 50's and 60's. This special place earned its rightful name as the “Harlem of the South” due to its deep footprint in Miami. Among these people were Judges, Entrepreneurs, Artists, Activists, and Community Leaders. Our rich history of Black Culture is what makes our community thrive. Oral history is our native tradition. So, to manifest it into a piece of art is near and dear to my heart. “OVERtown: Our Family Tree” is the definition of our very traditional way of passing down our cultural and societal history then transmuting it into positive change in our community. Although Overtown felt its lowest lows due to the extension of I-95 that severed the neighborhood in half, this piece of art displays our resilience, class, courage and hope for a better tomorrow! “OVERtown: Our Family Tree” is an example of creating a revolving cycle of change within our community for generations to come. The next time you have lunch with your grandparents, take notes, and find a way to teach your future grandchildren how to become the change you demand to see.
One love,”
~Mojo

Judge Lawson E. Thomas Mural

Welcome to Miami MoCAAD's Overtown Interactive Mural Treasure Hunt. On this page, you can see an image of the mural. Interact by clicking the white hotspots indicated below and discover Overtown oral histories.