Butler Beach

One of the ways that people could enjoy their free time was going to Butler Beach, located on Anastasia Island. The beach is named after Frank B. Butler a local African American business owner who purchased the land in 1927 from Edgar F. Pomer. Because segregation prevented African Americans from visiting other beaches, Butler Beach attracted people from not just St. Augustine but Jacksonville, and even Georgia. Frank Butler developed the beach property with a casino, motel, and resort.

Everyone who visited Butler Beach could enjoy several activities. There was boating, fishing, picnics, cookouts, and music. There were refreshments, such as fish and a bar, and there was even portable electricity. In 1956, a large 4th of July celebration included games, sports, a beauty contest, and fireworks.

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Memories of Butler Beach are mentioned in:

Bernice Harper and Betty Stirrup

Reginald James