Sepia Vernacular: Overtown's Photographic Journey

Historic photographs of Overtown offer a visual record of daily life, streetscapes and community identity from the early to mid-20th century. Presented as part of Overtown’s Juneteenth programming, Sepia Vernacular: Overtown’s Photographic Journey is on view Thursdays through Saturdays from May 7 through June 26 at the L.E. Thomas Building. The exhibition is presented by the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency in partnership with the City of Miami Planning Department.

Drawn from the City of Miami Planning Department’s archives, the exhibition features Color Town, a rare collection by photographer Max Waldman. Captured during the winter of 1947, Waldman’s images document Overtown’s people, neighborhood life and built environment during a significant period in Miami’s history.

The exhibition is installed in the restored Lawson E. Thomas Building, placing the work within the neighborhood it depicts. Through photography, Sepia Vernacular reflects on Overtown’s cultural legacy, resilience and continuing influence on Miami’s civic and cultural landscape.