Miami mourns the loss of Dr. Enid Johnson Pinkney
Miami mourns the loss of Dr. Enid Johnson Pinkney, a distinguished historian, and preservationist who passed away at the age of 92. Known for her unwavering commitment to preserving Miami’s landmarks and advocating for civil rights and equality, Dr. Pinkney’s legacy is etched into the very fabric of the city she loved.
Born Enid Curtis to Bahamian parents Lenora and Henry on October 15, 1931, Pinkney grew up in Miami’s Overtown with her three siblings. Her roots in Miami’s cultural tapestry spawned a lifelong dedication to preserving its history, education and heritage.
One of Dr. Pinkney’s most notable achievements was spearheading the restoration of the historic Hampton House, a Green Book hotel in Miami, Florida. The Hampton House, a premier spot for Black celebrities and travelers in the 1950s and 1960s, hosted luminaries such as Martin Luther King Jr., who practiced his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech there. It was also the place where Malcolm X converted Cassius Clay into Muhammad Ali.
After retiring from Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Pinkney didn’t stop and rest. She reminisces that as a young woman, she patronized the Hampton House, cherishing its role as a cultural and social hub for the Black community. At the age of 70, she found the once-thriving establishment abandoned for three decades. Determined to save it from ruin, Pinkney took action. The Markowitz family, operators of the Hampton House during its Green Book days, designated her as the “Founding President and CEO of the Historic Hampton House Community Trust.”
Under her leadership, Pinkney embarked on a mission to raise nearly 10 million dollars to rehabilitate the property, aiming to restore it to its 1950s grandeur. Her perseverance and vision breathed new life into the Hampton House, transforming it into a vibrant cultural center and historical landmark.
Dr. Enid Johnson Pinkney’s tireless advocacy for civil rights and equality, coupled with her dedication to preserving Miami’s historic landmarks, has left an indelible mark on the city. As we remember her life and contributions, we celebrate a true champion of Miami’s history and heritage. Dr. Pinkney’s spirit will continue to inspire future generations to honor and preserve the cultural treasures that define our communities.
