Solomon Calhoun Center Community Mosaic Wall

The Mosaic project was spearheaded by the West Augustine CRA and its president, Greg White, who recruited local artists and art educators, Wendy Mandel McDaniel and Corrie Borgland, to work with the community on the mosaic, which turned the back of a sign into a vibrant work of art. Wendy and Corrie worked with students at the VFW and the Boys and Girls Club to create ceramic tiles. The students added their favorite things to do and positive messages. The decorative tiles were added to a larger mosaic design that includes the words “sing, play, dance, run, dream, and swim”. The community project allowed the kids to take centerstage and have ownership of the art displayed at their community center.

About Solomon Calhoun

Solomon Calhoun was a well accomplished educator, mentor, and coach in St. Johns County. He received a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Florida A&M University, and was the first person to be named Florida A&M’s first-team all American football player in 1934.

In addition to teaching and holding a position as a principal, Calhoun was director of Pupil Welfare in St. Johns County. He also owned the Chapin Street Grocery and Washeteria in St. Augustine.

Being an active member in the community was evident as he was actively involved in organizations such as the NAACP, St. Paul A.M.E. Church, Grand United Order of Oddfellows, San Sebastian and Elks Lodge, National Retired Teachers Association, and St. Johns County Mental Health Association.

About the Solomon Callhoun Community Center

Built in 2009, the Solomon Calhoun Community Center was designed to help improve West Augustine’s quality of life and access to a variety of programs including health & wellness, arts & culture, and athletics.