Fourteenth International Conference on Interdisciplinary Social Sciences

Abstract

Between 2014 and 2015, I conducted a study that examined the social role of a family-owned business located in a small town in the Northwest Florida area. Through this instrumental case study, I explored the history of a Black-owned restaurant, which operated in a neighborhood predominantly occupied by African Americans since the early 1900s. During my research, I focused on the investigation of variables that may have determined the longevity of the business using the theory of third place (Oldenburg, 1986) as the framework for my study. I examined the Northwest Florida history, emphasizing aspects such as early diversity during colonial times, emancipation years, race relations, segregation, and the construction of Interstate 110. My study funneled to specific accounts shared by participants who were residents and business owners in the community during segregation and integration years. I employed multiple data collection methods to ensure the triangulation and credibility of findings (Guba, 1981). The data analysis was conducted following emerging codes and themes. Findings converged to support perceptions that the social role of the restaurant, in combination with community cohesiveness, were significant factors that may have contributed to the longevity of the business. With the objective to conduct further research in the area of community education, I intend to propose a preliminary study on the value of community history as a venue to promote collaboration among youth from economic depressed communities as active agents of change.