Wells’ Built Museum, Orlando

The Wells' Built Hotel is a historic establishment that has been transformed into an African-American museum. It's situated in the heart of Orlando's historic Parramore district. The hotel was originally constructed by Dr. William Monroe Wells to cater to African-American visitors to Orlando. This was during a time when segregation was rampant, and African-Americans were not allowed to stay in Florida's segregated hotels.

Dr. William M. Wells was a prominent African-American physician in Orlando during the early 20th century. He arrived in Orlando in 1917 and in 1921, he built the hotel to provide accommodation for African-Americans who were not welcome in the racially segregated hotels of Florida. Shortly thereafter, he also constructed the South Street Casino, an entertainment venue designed to host black performers on tour. Together, these establishments became central symbols within the African American music community.

The Wells' Built Hotel played host to numerous famous African-American artists who stayed there and performed at the Casino. Some notable names include Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, Ray Charles, Cab Calloway, Ivory Joe Hunter, B.B. King, Louis Armstrong, Guitar Slim, and Bo Diddley. Many other prominent African Americans also visited, including sports legend Jackie Robinson and Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.

Although the Casino no longer exists, the original hotel remains standing and has been converted into a modest museum dedicated to African American history. In recognition of its historical significance, Wells' Built Hotel was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in February 2000.