Museum Corner: Virginia Key Beach Park Trust Progress and the Way Forward Part 2

Smiling man wearing glasses and white shirt.

The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust has revitalized Historic Virginia Key Beach Park through numerous capital improvement projects, including building restoration, beach re-nourishment, and park infrastructure. Key milestones include the park’s Master Plan completion in 2003, a $15.5 million bond program approval in 2004, and the grand re-opening in 2008. The Trust continues to work on ongoing projects, such as museum planning and additional park improvements.

Sunset Salute Joyce Bryant

Elegant woman in fur, profile view.

The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust honors Joyce Bryant, a singer, dancer, and civil rights activist. Known as “The Bronze Blond Bombshell,” Bryant achieved fame in the late 1940s and early 1950s. She left the industry in 1955 and returned a decade later as a trained classical vocalist and vocal coach.

Volunteers take the time to support.

Two people standing by beach foliage.

The Miami Waterkeepers, TREEmendous Miami, a local law firm, and Virginia Key Beach Park Trust staff collaborated on a shoreline exotic vegetation removal project at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park on Saturday, November 5th.

Museum Planning Retreat begins at the Betsy Hotel on South Beach

Group dining at a conference table.

The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust Board of Trustees held their November 2017 Museum Planning Retreat at the Betsy Hotel in Miami Beach. During the retreat, board members discussed important next steps for the Trust’s Historic Virginia Key Beach Park Museum Project. The Betsy Hotel was praised for its hospitality and great service.

Experience Our Eco-History Tours!

Man standing by historical photo display.

Relive Miami’s history with a free Eco-History tour of Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, a popular destination for people of color in the 1940s and 50s. Explore historic landmarks, amusement rides, and nature while learning about the soldiers, native tribes, and families who were part of the park’s history.

Recovery from Hurricane Irma was successful.

Damaged tent among palm trees on beach.

Following Hurricane Irma, TREEmendous Miami and Mission Continues organized volunteer efforts to assist Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. The Miami Seaquarium also contributed by turning their birthday celebration into a volunteer event. Charlie Weyman, Education and Outreach Coordinator, led volunteer efforts with Barry University students.

Following Hurricane Irma, TREEmendous Miami and Mission Continues organized volunteer efforts to assist Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. The Miami Seaquarium also contributed by turning their birthday celebration into a volunteer event. Charlie Weyman, Education and Outreach Coordinator, led volunteer efforts with Barry University students.

Museum Corner: Virginia Key Beach Park Trust Progress and the Way Forward

Smiling man outdoors in glasses and plaid shirt.

The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust has recently faced a setback with the removal of its Board of Trustees by the City of Miami Commission. Despite this change, the park remains open and its operations continue as usual. The Trust’s mission to preserve the cultural history and unique environment of the park remains unchanged. The Trust staff will continue to work with community leaders and partners to ensure the preservation of this important historical site.

Barra de accesibilidad

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park poster illustration.