Businesses

Businesses. Sanford Est. 1877. Buildings and businesses that were part of Sanford Avenue’s past live on in the minds of the community. Many businesses were owned by African Americans and served the needs of the residents, especially during the difficult era of segregation. Lasting memories were made along “the Avenue”’ and residents fondly recall the strong sense of place and community that was ever present in day to day life in Georgetown., Georgetown residents went to Sanford Avenue to “see and be seen”. Hair was coiffed at Scipio Bracey’s Barbershop and Julia Brown’s Beauty Shop. Family and friends shared in photo sessions at the studios of Willie “Pocket” Brown and later Theodore “Tick” Martin. Former students of Crooms Academy fondly remember prom dances or basketball games in the dance hall on the second floor at Jerry’s Arcade., The community’s health rested in the capable hands of Dr. George H. Starke, Dr. Julius Ringling, Dr. Edward Strickland, and Marie Francis. Residents purchased medications and sundries at Jerry’s Drugstore and Stapler Pharmacy, socializing with neighbors doing the same., The Afro-American Life Insurance Company provided residents with insurance policies that were otherwise difficult to obtain at the time, and helped ensure the financial security of beneficiaries in times of need. Pathways to History is a series of self-guided tours focused on Sanford’s development and its neighborhoods. Scan the QR code with your smartphone or visit www.sanford.gov to learn more about Sanford’s rich history. , All images are courtesy of the Sanford Museum.