EATONVILLE, Fla. – For over six decades, Club Eaton was a vibrant hub where Eatonville residents gathered for nights of dancing and live music.
The club, which opened in 1946 during segregation, hosted legendary entertainers such as James Brown and Aretha Franklin.
Although the doors closed in 2008, plans are underway to restore the historic venue thanks to a state grant aimed at preserving Eatonville’s cultural history.
Malcolm Jones, owner of MAJ Architecture and Design, is leading the renovation effort.
“It’s amazing, but a little scary when you take on the task of historic preservation,” said Jones.
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He provided a status update to Eatonville’s Community Redevelopment Agency on Thursday.
The restoration of the dilapidated building on Kennedy Boulevard near Gabriel Street is a long-awaited project.
Before work could begin, parts of the structure had to be demolished due to hazards, including infrastructure instability.
However, some historic elements — such as the original walls and a staircase — remain intact.
“There was asbestos that was discovered, along with other hazards,” Jones said.
Despite the challenges, he expressed excitement about the project.
Jones plans to engage the community in the process, announcing visioning sessions for October, where residents can share their memories of the club.
“It’s an opportunity for me to get an understanding of the history and people’s thoughts,” Jones said. “I’ll compile those details and use them as design drivers.”
For Jones, the renovation is more than a construction project, it’s a chance to honor Eatonville’s rich history and bring the historic club back to life.
“The people who take on these types of projects don’t take them lightly,” he said.
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