In the heart of Overtown lies a hidden gem rich in lessons of Miami’s history: The Historic Black Police Precinct Courthouse and Museum.
The museum was once an all-black precinct and courthouse back in the 50’s, because blacks were not allowed to serve as officers with whites.
Ninety-two-year-old Archie McKay, a retired lieutenant, serves as a tour guide at the museum.
“I love to talk about my experience, about how it was back in the day, in the 50’s, the 40’s,” McKay said.
As a man of color in uniform during the Jim Crow era, McKay said he faced many challenges.
“There were many who thought we were Uncle Toms and snitches, and what have you,” he said. “That made it tough and then when you go to arrest somebody, that made it even tougher, because some people you had to fight to arrest them.”
While many officers suffered setbacks and everyday battles, they knew it would make a difference, one day in the future.
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“I’m pretty proud of the fact that I was a pioneer, per say, and that the doors were open,” McKay said.
Click here to visit the museum's website and for more information.
