The Bing Rooming House has a unique history in that it served as the hub of business activity for the African American community. When African Americans were not allowed access on Main Street, they were welcomed on Laura Street. Originally serving as a boarding house from 1920 to 1970, the Bing Rooming House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in September 2002. The two-story structure will be restored to its original glory and enhanced with historic artifacts from families, signage, photos, menus, newspapers, books and little known historical facts involving local African Americans.
Plant City's
African American Community Museum
Laura Street Black Business District
Laura Street was once a thriving black business district with businesses ranging from theaters, dry cleaning, gas station, meat store, funeral homes, and several churches. The Bing House Museum will contain historic accounts of Laura Street during this era in addition to providing electronic geneaology center for families to store their family history.
What is the purpose of the Bing House?
Bing Rooming House, a National Historical Site anchors the Laura Street Restoration District. The Bing Rooming House is a local landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, primarily for its role as a domestic hotel for people of color during the period of segregation. Upon completion, the facility, which is located at 205 South Allen Street, will be operated as a museum to emphasize the Plant City community’s triumph over segregation. The Bing Rooming House Museum will be dedicated to collecting and preserving the history of African American culture and lifestyle during this period. The museum will strive to accurately interpret, present and preserve Plant City’s African American history from an African American perspective. Displays of artifacts, storyboards, and written documents will help both American and international visitors better understand the experiences of African Americans during the segregation era. This Museum will provide cultural connectivity enhancing and complimenting Plant City's Historic Downtown.