Greater Frenchtown

Greater Frenchtown. . , Greater Frenchtown , Greater Frenchtown is a derivative of the original Frenchtown, in name and geographics. Current and long-time residents who are familiar with the history know the neighborhoods now called Greater Frenchtown as the area where African American single family homes were built, and included a few rentals, in the 1900s. The area's residents included many well-known individuals who owned their homes and made significant contributions across the city and county. Greater Frenchtown, as it is called today, includes the neighborhoods of Griffin Heights, Springfield, Goodbread, Crowder Quarters, and Gibbs, and Kershaw Subdivisions. , Griffin Heights Neighborhood , Northwest of Frenchtown is the residential area that once had a small business corridor along Alabama and Birmingham Streets. However, most of its residents went to Frenchtown for shopping, dining, recreation, medical and other personal services. , The vibrant community is still home to Lawrence-Gregory Community Center, Robinson Trueblood Swimming Pool, Griffin Middle School, Miracle Hill Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Riley Elementary School and many family residents. Among its historic churches are: Griffin Chapel and Philadelphia Primitive Baptist Churches; St. James C.M.E. Church; and Anderson Chapel and New Mount Zion A.M.E. Churches. , The most glaring transformation in the neighborhood is the influx of student housing. The area is less than one mile from Florida State University and student dwelling has been established on the perimeters of the enclave. , Goodbread , A community bearing the name of the former land owner, Goodbread is closely aligned with Frenchtown. The area was mainly shotgun houses on unpaved streets for years before the entire neighborhood was improved. , The little community is directly across from Lee Park where children played for many years under the direction of Bennie Osborne Mosley. In addition to swings and sliding boards, the park was used as a baseball field and is the site for the Annual Soul Santa celebration. , The neighborhood was home to several businesses including Fourth Avenue Grocery Store and Randolph's Alterations. , Springfield Neighborhood , The Springfield Neighborhood is sandwiched between Frenchtown and Griffin Heights. The region rivaled Frenchtown in the number of homes, businesses and churches. Pioneer families and newcomers continue to embrace Springfield's rich history and unique attributes.