Willie M. Lattimore Davis

Willie M. Lattimore Davis. . , Willie M. Lattimore Davis was the first African American woman to own a general store in Wimauma. Her store, Tut's Place, provided many services for the community. Originally a shotgun-style house, the building was a place of respect in the neighborhood that often extended credit to its customers. Suppliers often thought Davis was a White man and many times, when delivery drivers arrived. they refused to do business with her. She was not disheartened and found other vendors. For local youth, Tut's Place served as a game room with pinball machines and jukebox music. Wonderful times were had by all who came to Tut's Place. During a time when safety was so important, especially for Black children living in small southern towns, having a safe space was a blessing. Davis never had children of her own, but many Wimauma residents have stories of their childhood at Tut's. Her store gave them confidence, allowing them to dream past their immediate neighborhood. Once the local park was established, the store became a shelter for residents who needed refuge from time to time.