Issue 339, June 28, 2026
SBMC Legacy Spotlight
Building Jacksonville’s Future—One Road at a Time
As we celebrate Independence Day and reflect on the freedoms and opportunities that make our nation strong, we also recognize the civic-minded individuals who dedicated themselves to improving their communities.
One of the Southside Business Men’s Club’s earliest and most significant accomplishments was its leadership in helping secure what is now Philips Highway (U.S. 1 South). During the 1930s, the Southside of Jacksonville was rapidly growing, and Club members understood that improved transportation would be essential to the area’s future.
Through their advocacy and determination, SBMC helped secure the route for the highway and had the honor of naming it Philips Highway in recognition of Judge Philips. The Club was also entrusted with organizing the official dedication ceremony.
On July 12, 1934, Governor Dave Sholtz cut the ceremonial ribbon, officially opening the highway and marking a milestone not only for Jacksonville but for the vision and perseverance of SBMC’s early members.
Today, thousands of motorists travel Philips Highway every day, often unaware that nearly a century ago, members of our Club played an instrumental role in making it a reality.
As we celebrate our nation’s independence this Fourth of July, let us also celebrate the legacy of service, leadership, and community commitment that has defined the Southside Business Men’s Club since 1932. Our founders understood that lasting freedom is strengthened by citizens willing to invest their time, talents, and energy into building a better community for future generations.
Mark Geil
2026 President