Washington Straughter (1858-1930)

African American Pioneer

Washington Straughter, the son of two African Americans from Virginia, was born in 1858 in Florida.  The Straughters were one of the earliest African American families to inhabit Winter Park.  Although most African Americans who settled in Winter Park were from North Florida, South Georgia or North Carolina, Washington’s family resided in Virginia.[1]  Most of the family moved to the Lake Maitland and Winter Park Town area.  While living in the west side of Winter Park, also known as Hannibal Square, Washington earned the nickname “buddy” from neighborhood friends.[2]  Washington began his career in the 1920s.  A land grant allowed him to obtain land in west Winter Park.  The grant allowed him to purchase more land for groves and the raising of cattle and horses.[3]  Washington built a two-story home located on the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Douglas streets in 1927.[4]  Two story houses were uncommon in African American neighborhoods.  Most homes were wooden, single story homes with a simple gable roof design.[5]  Washington married Edith in 1884.  Edith taught herself to read and write.[6]  She helped Washington in this regard when necessary.  Washington Straughter died in 1930.   

 - Kerem K. Rivera