Remembering Smokey Hollow

Smokey Hollow was once a thriving African American neighborhood in downtown Tallahassee, located near where the Riley House now stands. From the late 19th century through the mid-20th century, it was home to families, churches, schools, and small businesses that formed a close-knit community.
The neighborhood’s name is believed to have come from the smoke rising from homes and local industries in the area. Residents of Smokey Hollow created a rich cultural and social life despite the challenges of segregation and limited resources.
By the 1960s and 1970s, urban renewal projects and redevelopment led to the displacement of most residents, and many of the neighborhood’s buildings were demolished. Today, only a few structures remain, including the Riley House, which preserves the history of the community and its residents.Visitors to the Riley House Museum can also explore the Smokey Hollow Commemorative Park, which marks the location of the former neighborhood and honors its legacy in Tallahassee’s history.