Post Office historic marker dedicated

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
April 8, 2017 2:45 p.m.

There were even more visitors to downtown Fernandina Beach before noon on April 8, 2017 as the Princess Amelia Chapter of Colonial Dames XVII Century dedicated a state historical marker at the recently refurbished building that graces the corner of Centre and North 4^th Streets. Colonial Dames, Postal officials, history buffs, elected officials and just plain curious folks turned out in good number under Chamber of Commerce skies to see the unveiling of the marker that honors a building that has been part of the fabric of the city since 1912.

The marker, which had been erected but covered until the unveiling, had generated many curious stares. Some speculated that the mystery related to a rededication of the building itself, recently saved from demolition by neglect with an infusion of federal funds. Others speculated that this was somehow part of a ceremony in which the Postal Service would turn over the building to the city. But the mystery was solved as the black veil was lifted and a series of speakers underlined the importance to the community of the Italian Renaissance Revival building, that once housed a Federal Courthouse and the U.S. Customs House in addition to serving as the city’s Post Office.

The Colonial Dames, the marker sponsors, welcomed attendees and addressed the importance of the building’s history. President Dianne Parfitt highlighted the building’s significance and the work of the Dames in bringing recognition to local history. City Preservation Planner Sal Cumella talked about how important the people of Fernandina Beach are in preserving, protecting and promulgating their rich history.

Florida State Senator Aaron Bean, on a break from the 2017 State Legislative Session, reminisced on the role of the downtown Post Office in pre-social media days, when all the local box holders would converge on the building both to pick up their mail and share local news. Bean also gave a nod to United States Representative John Rutherford, who was not on the program. Rutherford, who had just returned to Jacksonville from a busy week at the Capitol in Washington, DC, was accompanied by his District Director Jackie Smith. Both Rutherford and Bean appeared to enjoy the opportunity to be out and among their constituents, spending lots of time talking with a constant stream of greeters.

Following the ceremony, participants adjourned to the Amelia Island Museum of History for refreshments.

The Princess Amelia Chapter of Colonial Dames XVII Century extended appreciation to the following for their assistance with marker and the ceremony: City of Fernandina Beach, Florida Department of State, Members of the local Colonial Dames chapter, City Preservation Planner Salvatore Cumella, the West Nassau JROTC and the Bartram Garden Club.