Quarters Reunion: A Time to Reminisce
A Celebration of Unity and Legacy
By Susan Slater
In the early 1900’s Blacks came to Zephyrhills via box cars looking for a place to live. They lived in Four Quarters, comprising of Krusen, Byron Hill, 6th Avenue-Otis Moody,and Hercules. Residents were instrumental in the construction of the railroad,working in lumber mills, citrus fields, and Hercules Powder.These segregated "quarters" on the eastern outskirts of town developed a powerful sense of identity and purpose for the workers and their families.
Their determination to build a better life and create a supportive environment for future generations laid the groundwork for the Quarter’s Foundation with a mission to create hope for the youth through raising funds for scholarships and families in need.
“The reunion celebrates the progress of our communityfrom those who came before usto pass onto the youth,” said Jimmy Campbell, President of Quarters Foundation. “The foundation’s purpose is to teach youth our history and provide scholarships for their future.”
Mary Alice Holt-Williams, arrived in Florida from Newton, GA when she was only six months old. She was the first black to integrate into Zephyrhills schools. “My early childhood memories were positive,” said Mary Alice, fondly. “I only remember one unpleasant experienceof name calling. My mother asked if that was my name. I answered no and she said, ‘that is not you’.”After graduating high school, Mary Alice worked for the State of Florida as a secretary and was promoted to higher positions. She retired in 2008.
The foundation hosts annual reunions and boots on the ground fundraisers filled with games, music, nostalgia and reflection bringing together family, friends, and neighbors.“The Quarters Foundation is dedicated to raising fundsfor scholarships to support our young members,”said CassandraThomas, Recording Secretary.“When a child graduates from Zephyrhills High School, they have the opportunity for a scholarship.”
Edward Holtgrew up in Newton, GA, lived in DC, and then moved to Zephyrhills. Despite segregation challenges, he has shown resilience and dedication to the community. His service in the army, experiences in Germany and Vietnam, education at USF for computers and work in Zephyrhills are all testimonies to his strength and perseverance, a legacy for youth.
The stories shared and the achievements celebrated serve as a guiding light for those who will carry the foundation's mission forward. This is a true testament to the enduring bonds formed during their shared experiences. The determination to build a better life and create a supportive environment for future generations has laid the groundwork for the foundation.
Many still live in the community. Some have branched off, now owning businesses, working as city or government officials, and become productive professionals, both locally, in Tampa and out of state. The Quarters community's legacy continues to evolve and flourish.
In addition to fundraising efforts, the foundation organized Field Day at Krusen Field to play games, participate in sack, egg, and three-legged races, baseball, and more. It is a happy event filled with memories of childhood, fun and burgers. This event, designed to bring children together, encourages them with outdoor activities. “We want to create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds within our neighborhoods,” said Campbell.
To donate or contact the Quarters Foundationuse this QR code.
