Canvases of History in Fort Pierce

To preserve the history of the area’s esteemed Highwaymen artists, the City of Fort Pierce broke ground this summer on the new Fort Pierce Highwaymen Museum. The museum is taking over the 3,776-square-foot Jackie L. Caynon Sr. building on Avenue D and will house rotating and limited exhibits that honor the 26 African-American artists of the 1950s and 1960s. “Our mission is to preserve and protect the history of the artists’ work, educate the public, and promote art in all its facets,” says Doretha Hair Truesdell, widow of Highwaymen artist Alfred Hair and president of the Original Florida Hall of Fame Highwaymen Foundation.

Initially, the museum will display one painting from each of the 26 Highwaymen artists, some of whom are still residing in the area and are expected to make in-person appearances. Plans are also in the works to provide a community space where the museum will host public programs, while a charming brick pathway outside will lead to a garden promenade where guests can sit and meditate or set up an easel and paint alfresco. To help raise more funding for the project, the organization is offering custom-engraved bricks for purchase, which can be dedicated to a loved one. To donate or learn more about the
project, visit originalfloridahalloffamehighwaymen.org.