McCollum Hall, a historical site and commercial center in Dunbar, was built in 1938 by Clifford McCollum. Within the vicinity of Fort Myers, Florida, this property has been regarded as an essential landmark for the Black community. For several decades, the place has been a centerpiece of commerce, music, and entertainment that attracted some big-name performers in its prime; one of the few places both Blacks and whites went for entertainment during segregation. Many esteemed performers like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, and B.B. King performed at McCollum Hall during the 30s and 40s while entertaining the audience.
In current times, two Black developers, Miles Alexander III of Alexander Goshen and Leornard Burke of Cornerstone Strategic Partners, are planning to resurrect the heritage site. The proposal calls for the creation of a 26-unit multifamily community and 14,200 square feet of commercial retail space at the McCollum Hall structure and adjacent lots. As part of the project, the retail space will be converted into a food hall and a market. In addition, Miles Alexander III and Leonard Burke have an interest in purchasing the parcels from the City of Fort Myers for an undisclosed price. The developers also will acquire the privately-owned lots west of McCollum Hall. At the moment, they control the privately-owned lots adjacent to McCollum Hall.
