SANFORD, Fla. – If you have ever driven through Seminole County and wondered about the story of the Midway-Canaan community, we have you covered.
According to the The Historical Maker Database, Midway-Canaan City was a migrant settlement established for African-Americans during the celery boom of the 1920s, although some people were residing in the area as early as 1865-1890.
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Initially, the settlement was called The Midway Point because of the two artesian wells on Sipes Avenue that were used to water livestock being driven from Cameron City to the Sanford Freight yards. Later, the name was shortened to Midway.
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A portion of Midway became known as Canaan City. The name “Canaan Land” was derived from references made by two itinerant preachers, Rev. Beatty and Father Owens, from “Canaan Land,” as mentioned in the Bible.
In 1906, Millie Morgan started a private school in her home. A public school was established on Midway Avenue, where the present Battern Quarters is located. When the old school burned, a new school was constructed at its present location at 2251 Jitway Ave.
According to the marker database, “The community boasts the first Black to graduate from the University of Florida Law School, the first Black elected to city government and includes Black cowboys, seven professional athletes, ministers, doctors, lawyers, educators, engineers and hard-working people.”
Emory Green, executive director of The Midway Coalition, a nonprofit that advocates for equitable advancement through economic development, education and community service for the community, was born and raised in the Midway community.
“Our history is unlike any other,” Green told News 6 in 2022.
Green said migrants worked the fields to produce the wealth for what Central Floridians know as celery city, the city of Sanford.
WKMG is highlighting Sanford, Midway and parts of Heathrow, specifically the 32771 ZIP code.
And we want you to help drive the conversation.
Tell us what makes this community so special and what needs to be improved.
Is there a local hero, special business or hidden gem we should know about?
Is there an issue that needs attention?
We are excited to promote what 32771 is all about and help you solve problems impacting your community.
All you have to do is fill out the form below and we will start looking into it.
Don’t be surprised if we follow up with you directly.