Bicentennial Birthday Gift

History and charm intertwine in the center of the Panhandle, where the Capital City of the Sunshine State has stood for 200 years. Here is Tallahassee marks the city’s Bicentennial birthday with a photographic tribute crafted by a trio of Tallahassee champions: photographer Erich Martin and curators Serena Moyle and Jay Revell. 

Photographer Erich Martin (left) and curators Serena Moyle and Jay Revell collaborated on this project that will stand as a testament to the city and a treasured memento. Photo by Erich Martin

The stunning photography book offers readers the chance to see Tallahassee from a fresh perspective, highlighting treasured landmarks, abundant natural beauty and quirky corners of the city that make it so special. 

“Tallahassee isn’t just a capital city; it isn’t just a college town or just a Southern town. It’s all of those things,” Martin said. “And they come together to make a community that isn’t perfect but one that we love. That’s what I’ve tried to capture in these images.” 

Martin, whose work has been featured in publications like The New York Times and Flamingo Magazine, is passionate about connecting with people and telling their stories through images. He also loves capturing unique views. Bustling university campuses, the stately capitol corridor, historic homes laden with Southern charm and long, canopied roads are just some of the settings he has immortalized in Here is Tallahassee. 

With brief essays and clever captions, the book presents Tallahassee as it is today — at the crossroads of its past, present and future. With exactly 200 photographs, it invites readers to explore both iconic and hidden aspects of the city.

“Tallahassee is a city of stories,” said Jay Revell, one of the book’s production partners. “Every person, every street, every building has a story to tell. The photo captions cleverly complement Erich’s images and give readers a deeper understanding of the city’s character.”

Residents from all walks of life are featured, each with their own unique story to tell. Their faces, expressions and interactions all combine to create Tallahassee’s soul.  

Photo by Erich Martin

“The people of Tallahassee are the essence of the warmth noted by newcomers and those that have been here a long time. Erich’s photography has a way of freezing a moment of the diverse range of people who call Tallahassee home,” said Serena Moyle, another partner in the book. “They’re warm, welcoming and engaged with their city. We wanted to capture that spirit in these pages.”

With Here is Tallahassee, the authors created a love letter to Florida’s Capital City and captured its beauty and charm for an eternity. Whether you’re a lifelong local, a curious visitor or a former resident who still holds Tallahassee in your heart, this book is a must-have; it’s a reminder of a city that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate hearts with its unwavering spirit.  

Brimming with Soul  

The official launch of Here is Tallahassee took place on Oct. 24 at Hearth & Soul, the book’s exclusive retail home. The store is a gathering place and shopping experience where you can discover beautiful things for yourself, your home or someone special in your life. Their collection of simple, modern and classic items includes top brands and artisan goods and a carefully curated selection of books, which now includes this stunning tribute to the Capital City.