Historic Shenandoah

Historic Shenandoah: Rediscovering Miami's Neighborhoods

Site Files II

Shenandoah is the heart of Miami: Geographically central, and high and dry on a ridge. It is well-connected to Downtown and the larger metropolis by SW 8th Street, also known as Tamiami Trail or Calle Ocho.

Shenandoah's population is diverse, and always has been. It is home to families of varying religions, ethnicities, languages, and economic status. Since its inception, Shenandoah has had varied housing options: apartment buildings, duplexes, houses, and garage apartments, all arranged together in harmonious streetscapes of bungalows and Mediterranean Revival architecture.

The architecture in Shenandoah matters. It is climate adapted: large porches and windows allow for cross breezes and natural lighting. It is fanciful: there are arches, elaborate chimneys, clay tiles roofs, and textured coral rock. For many residents, it reminds them of places where they grew up, from old Cuba to the mid-west. It makes people happy. 

There is a newfound appreciation of all of the neighborhood conveniences that Shenandoah inherently possesses.  Walkability. Transit access. Proximity to Downtown. Corner stores with Cafecito. Parks, schools, libraries, and churches integrated into the neighborhood. Varied housing options, from apartments to single-family homes. Beautiful historic architecture. 

As Shenandoah becomes more popular, it is receiving more and more attention and investment. Trees are being planted. Pocket parks created. Streetscape improvements completed. And many, many homes are being renovated for new families to move in.

It is important that property owners, residents, civic associations, City staff, elected officials, and State agencies understand Shenandoah's history, so that they can make informed decisions about the future. It is our hope that this book will help all Miamians to learn more about where they live.  

Prepared for: Dade Heritage Trust, Inc. and the Florida Department of State, Division of Historical Resources

This project was funded in part by the Florida Department of State, Division of Historical Resources, Dade Heritage Trust, and The Villagers, Inc.