Celebrate Black History: Learn, Engage, and Explore

Cultural Landmarks and Spaces in Austin

BY SONTA HENDERSON

Want to learn more about your community? Take a look at these places and explore historical sites related to Black history in the city. Learn about the great contributions of African Americans which led to change in our city, state, and nation.

• Downs-Mabson Field

Located at 2816 E. 12th Street, the Downs-Mabson Field was the home field of the Austin Black Senators, a team in the professional “Negro League.” Notable sluggers such as Willie Wells, Satchel Paige, Willie Mays, and Smokey Joe Williams are among those who played in games at the field.

Downs-Mabson Field

• Colored Teachers State Association Building

Located at 1191 Navasota Street, the Colored Teachers State Association Building was designed by the state’s first African American architect. From 1962 to 1966, it served African American teachers who were integral in desegregating Texas public schools and winning equal rights and wages.

The Colored Teachers State Association Building

• Limerick-Frazier House

Locatated at 1501 E. 12th Street, the Limerick-Frazier House was purchased by John W. Frazier in 1905. After his death, his widow, Laura, used the home as lodging for African American students and travelers during the Jim Crow era.

The Limerick-Frazier House

From 1962 to 1966, the Colored Teachers State Association Building served African American teachers who were integral in desegregating Texas public schools and winning equal rights and wages.

• George Washington Carver Museum

Located at 1165 Angelina Street, the George Washington Carver Museum is home to a multitude of historical initiatives. It serves as a vital part of the community in sharing cultural history, art, and more.

George Washington Carver Museum

• Barbara Jordan Statue on the UT Campus

Located at 307 W. 24th Street, the statue commemorates Barbara Jordan and her history of “firsts.” Jordan was the first African American person to serve in the Texas Senate since Reconstruction (196672), the first African American woman from the South elected to the U.S. Congress (197278), and the first woman to deliver the keynote address at a national party convention (the 1972 Democratic Convention). There is also a statue of Jordan inside the Austin Bergstrom International Airport.

• Texas African American History Memorial

Located at 100 W. 11th Street, the Texas African American History Memorial was installed in 2016. It features Hendrick Arnold and Barbara Jordan, and recognizes Juneteenth (June 19, 1965).

There’s always an opportunity to learn, engage, and explore. AL