_jpg.png)
Leaders working to preserve Tampa’s historic Jackson House say the landmark’s recent partial collapse does not mark the end of the building or its story.
A section of the deteriorating structure on East Zack Street collapsed over Labor Day weekend, renewing concerns about the future of one of Tampa’s last surviving landmarks tied to the city’s once-thriving Black business district.
Jackson House Foundation leaders said the organization was already preparing for an extensive reconstruction project. The Tampa City Council recently approved a $1 million grant to help the foundation purchase construction materials for the project. The full restoration is expected to cost approximately $4 million and could take up to two years to complete, according to previous estimates.
The process is expected to involve carefully dismantling the remaining structure, identifying materials that can be preserved and rebuilding the house to reflect its original appearance.
Foundation representatives emphasized that reconstruction should not be confused with demolition.
The house will not be moved and will remain in its same location.
The collapse followed years of delays connected to funding, construction planning, regulatory requirements and access to surrounding property. Another section of the building collapsed during the summer of 2025.
The Jackson House dates to 1901 and operated as a boarding house during segregation, when Black travelers were routinely denied accommodations at white-owned hotels. Located near Tampa Union Station, it provided a safe place for Black visitors arriving in the city.
Among its guests were prominent entertainers and civil rights-era figures, including Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, Cab Calloway and Count Basie.
The house is also one of the few remaining physical connections to Tampa’s historic Black Central Avenue community. The district was once home to Black-owned businesses, restaurants, entertainment venues and residences before urban renewal and interstate construction displaced much of the neighborhood.
Power Broker News reached out to Jackson House Foundation for comment and were told they were not doing interviews at this time. This report was developed from information reported by WFLA News Channel 8 and additional background from FOX 13 Tampa Bay.