JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The historic charm of Riverside and Avondale continues to shine, thanks to the efforts of Riverside Avondale Preservation — better known as RAP.
Since the 1970s, the nonprofit has worked to protect the neighborhoods’ legacy, preserving century-old homes and historic storefronts.
“This particular property is actually part of Brooklyn,” said Elaine Slayton Akin, archivist for RAP. “It’s so close to Riverside — just divided by the Fuller Warren Bridge. A lot of the homes here resemble what you’d see in Riverside and Avondale. This home, now part of Friday Musicale, was originally built in the early 20th century by the Jerough family.”
Just a few blocks away stands another architectural gem.
“This one’s really special — it’s called the San Juline,” Akin said. “It was built in 1915 by Roy Benjamin, one of the most well-known architects in the historic district. It’s one of the first examples of luxury multi-family living in Riverside and Avondale.”
Further down the street, another estate offers a glimpse into Jacksonville’s past.
“Now it’s a co-working space with several offices and businesses inside,” Akin said. “But originally, it was a residence built by Jay Hawkins in the early 20th century for his daughter and her husband, who was the general counsel for Flagler Railway.”
At the final stop, a unique home stands out for its architectural pedigree.
“I’ve worked with the homeowner on research for this house,” Akin said. “We recently discovered the architect was Albert and Cole. Cole worked in the same firm as Henry Klutho — a name everyone in the neighborhood knows. Klutho’s work spans downtown and Springfield. He’s the architect to know.”
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From Brooklyn to Avondale, the area is filled with hidden gems.
“Riverside, Avondale — even the edge of Brooklyn — there’s so much architectural diversity and so many unique homes,” Akin said. “You just don’t see this everywhere.”