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The Green Bench – A Story That Must Be Told
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- $30.00
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Product Info
For decades, St. Petersburg’s green benches were marketed as symbols of hospitality—featured on postcards, lining the streets, and welcoming visitors. But for Black residents, these benches told a much darker story. They weren’t symbols of community but of exclusion. Black citizens were forbidden from sitting on them, a painful reminder that they were not welcome in their own city.
I had the privilege of sitting down with St. Pete native Ms. Gwen Reese, who shared a heartbreaking memory. As a young girl, after leaving McCrory’s Store, her feet ached with exhaustion. She turned to her mother and asked, "Mommy, my feet hurt—why can’t we sit on this bench and rest?" Her mother’s painful response: "Because we are not white, and we are forbidden."
This isn’t just history—it’s a reality that shaped generations. Yet, so many today remain unaware of this injustice.
This design was created to shine a light on this painful truth, to spark conversations, and to ensure we never forget the past. St. Pete has come a long way, but real progress means acknowledging the whole story—not just the parts that are easy to remember.
A portion of proceeds will be donated to the African American Heritage Trail, preserving the history of the Black community that helped build this city, despite facing relentless discrimination.
Wear the truth. Honor the past. Keep the conversation going.
To learn more about the African American Heritage trail please visit their website: https://www.afamheritagestpete.com/heritage-trail
- Designed & Made in St. Petersburg
- Front & Back Design
- Cotton / Poly blend for a perfect lightweight tee to wear in Florida
- The Sankofa Bird is pictured on the mothers purse
- The Sankofa Bird is a symbol associated with the word Sankofa, which means "go back and get it". Let's go back and get what we once did wrong and correct it
Let customers speak for us
Great shirts
Great shirts, both lightweight and comfortable. These are perfect for those Florida summers which seem to last 8 months.
Anonymous
Drop The Puck
It was a gift
It was a gift and it was hit. It was a true to size fit as well
Anonymous
The Walk Off
Great shirt
I bought this shirt as a gift for a friend and he loves it. Fits true to size and a comfortable material
Anonymous
Petey Blocks
I love the quality of the shirts
I love the quality of the shirts, the design and the colors!!!
LISA
Tampa Bay Boarding
love these polos. So comfortable, looks great, and stays cool during those hot summer days
jacob hampton
Petey Blocks
Knowing Dave growing up and playing ball against him in high school and with him in college. Your shirt was a great way to keep the great memories of Dave alive.
Michael Windt
Thanks for the Memories Dave!
I love how comfortable this crop top is! It fits perfectly and isn't too tight or too loose. The fabric feels soft and lightweight, so it’s perfect for warm weather. The St. Pete design is a nice personal touch!
Clara James
Petey in the Bay Women's Crop Top
The St. Pete-inspired design on this crop top is amazing! It’s unique but still subtle enough to wear with anything. The material is so soft and breathable, making it perfect for hot days. Highly recommend!
Anna Evans
Petey in the Bay Women's Crop Top
This shirt is so soft and comfy! The design is unique and fresh. The quality is fantastic, and it has become a go-to in my wardrobe.
Wyatt Richardson
Enjoy The Bay
Incredibly soft and comfortable! The design is different from anything else, and the fabric is top quality. It’s become one of my favorites.
Violet Carter
Petey in the Bay (Additional Designs Available)