By Nunnie Robinson
WEST PARK, FL — A proud moment in Broward County history was celebrated on Thursday, October 23, 2025, as the governing board of the Bowles-Strachan House hosted a dedication ceremony and plaque unveiling to commemorate the county’s first officially designated historic residential site.
Located at 4651 SW 19th Street in West Park, the Bowles-Strachan House stands as the last remaining model home from the original Carver Ranches community of the 1940s, a development created specifically for African American families during segregation. Passed down through generations, the home remains on its original grounds, preserving the spirit, structure, and soul of the pioneers who helped shape Broward’s Black heritage.
The heartfelt ceremony drew community leaders and supporters who gathered to honor the legacy of perseverance, family, and pride that the home represents. Among the distinguished guests were Broward County Mayor Beam Furr, West Park Mayor Felicia Brunson, West Park Commissioner Dr. Katrina Touchstone, and Broward County Historical Preservation Board member Derek Davis, who had the honor of introducing the home’s curator, Ms. Cynthia Strachan-Saunders.
Ms. Strachan-Saunders, granddaughter of the home’s original owners, delivered an emotional tribute to the pioneers of Carver Ranches, highlighting their courage, unity, and vision in building a thriving African American community during a time of limited opportunity.
“This house is more than wood and wallst it is a living testament to the strength of our people and the stories that made West Park what it is today,” she said.
The unveiling took place in the front yard, where the new historic marker plaque now stands proudly for all to see. The ceremony was followed by a reception recognizing the many friends, supporters, relatives, and city and county partners who have worked tirelessly to preserve this vital piece of Broward’s African American history.
The Bowles-Strachan House continues to serve as an educational and cultural landmark, offering tours and programs that celebrate the region’s rich legacy of resilience and community pride.
For more information or to schedule a tour, contact Curator Cynthia Strachan-Saunders at (954) 773-6731 or bowlesstrachanhouse@aol.com, or visit www.bowlesstrachanhouse.weebly.com.
