On July 11, 1867, Tallahassee hosted a historic event that shaped Florida’s political landscape during the Reconstruction era: the first statewide Republican convention. Bringing together 125 delegates from 30 counties, this gathering was a bold step toward rebuilding Florida’s government after the Civil War. Notably, approximately half of the delegates were African American, reflecting the newfound political voice of formerly enslaved individuals under Reconstruction policies.
The convention elected Harrison Reed as chairman of the Republican Party, a pivotal figure who would go on to become Florida’s first Republican governor in 1868. This event was a cornerstone in organizing the party’s influence in the state, setting the stage for the drafting of Florida’s 1868 Constitution, which helped restore Florida to the Union.
Held in the wake of immense social and political upheaval, the July 11, 1867, convention symbolized hope and progress, showcasing the power of diverse voices uniting to redefine Florida’s future.
