At Moreland Properties, we believe that a community’s history is just as important as its future. As we celebrate Black History Month this February, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the rich cultural landmarks that showcase the contributions, resilience, and achievements of the Black community. From historic neighborhoods to museums and monuments, Austin is home to places that honor the legacy of Black leaders, artists, and visionaries who shaped the city's past and continue to influence its future.
George Washington Carver Museum
1165 Angelina St
The George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural, and Genealogy Center in East Austin began in a repurposed library building and has grown into a vibrant campus dedicated to Black history and art. As the first African American neighborhood museum in Texas, it highlights the significant contributions of Black individuals in Central Texas and beyond, making it a must-visit landmark for celebrating Black history and culture.
Texas African American History Memorial
100 W 11th St
The Texas African American History Memorial, located on the State Capitol grounds, is a powerful tribute to the contributions of African Americans in Texas. Built in 2016 and designed by sculptor Ed Dwight, the 27-foot-tall monument features statues and informational panels that trace African American history from the 1500s to the present. Key highlights include depictions of figures like Texas Revolutionary fighter Hendrick Arnold and political leader Barbara Jordan, as well as a central representation of Juneteenth marking the end of slavery in Texas.
2816 E 12th St
Downs-Mabson Field in Austin is a historic landmark in baseball, once home to the Austin Black Senators, a prominent African American team during the pre-integration era. Legendary players like Willie Wells, Satchel Paige, Smokey Joe Williams, Willie Mays, and Buck O’Neil graced its field. The field also served as the home ballpark for Samuel Huston College before it merged with Tillotson College in 1952, and today, it remains the home of the Huston-Tillotson University Rams. The legacy of these players and the field’s rich history can still be seen in portraits of Wells and other local tributes, including artwork by painter and musician Tim Kerr.
Barbara Jordan Statue at The University of Texas at Austin
307 W 24th St
The Barbara Jordan Statue at the University of Texas at Austin honors a trailblazer in American politics. Jordan, the first African American woman elected to the Texas Senate and the first Black woman from the South to serve in the U.S. Congress, was known for her powerful oratory and groundbreaking achievements. In 1976, she became the first woman to deliver the keynote address at a national party convention. The statue, constructed in 2009, is the first of a woman on UT’s campus, where Jordan also taught after her political career. A lawyer and professor, she is remembered as a force of nature and a pioneer who left a lasting legacy.
African Americans in the Texas Revolution Historical Marker
1100 Congress Ave
In a small park in Downtown Austin, the African Americans in the Texas Revolution Historical Marker honors the contributions of free and enslaved Black men who fought in the Texas Army during the 1835-1836 struggle for independence from Mexico. Serving as soldiers, guides, interpreters, and supply carriers, many of these brave individuals gave their lives defending the Alamo. This marker serves as a tribute to their crucial role in shaping Texas history.
1104 E 11th St
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Victory Grill opened in 1945 and became a renowned spot on the "chitlin circuit," a network of venues where African American musicians performed during segregation. Famous for its blues, jazz, and soul music, the club is filled with photos and stories from its vibrant past. While the former nightclub now opens sporadically for live shows, its legacy continues at Kenny Dorham's Backyard next door, an outdoor venue that hosts live music and events year-round, keeping the spirit of Victory Grill alive.
1009 E 11th St
The Texas Music Museum’s spotlight exhibit celebrates East Austin’s rich African American music history and the artists who helped shape Austin into the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Recently expanded in 2020, the exhibit features rare photos, biographies, historic posters, recordings, and live music videos. Highlights include memorabilia from the Victory Grill, The Music Professors, and East Austin’s Blues and Jazz communities. This multi-genre exhibit, spanning Blues, Ragtime, Jazz, and Gospel, is the result of over 30 years of research and remains a unique, ever-growing collection on permanent display in the museum’s back gallery.
Tillotson Collegiate and Normal Institute
900 Chicon St.
Huston-Tillotson University, located on what was once known as Bluebonnet Hill, has a deep and rich history in Austin's Black heritage. Originally opening as the Tillotson Collegiate and Normal Institute on January 17, 1881, it merged with the older Samuel Huston College in 1952. The university, now known as Huston-Tillotson University, officially adopted its current name in 2005. As a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), HT has been a cornerstone of education and culture in Austin.
Bullock Texas State History Museum
1800 Congress Ave
Located on the newly developed Capitol Mall, the Bullock Texas State History Museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Texas’ past, including a newly updated second-floor exhibit focused on Black history. These galleries delve into the stories of slavery, the Civil War, and Reconstruction, shedding light on the African American experience in Texas. Recent updates to the exhibits bring a fresh perspective, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of how these pivotal moments shaped the state’s history. The museum’s expansive approach ensures that key narratives, both old and new, are preserved and celebrated.
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Exploring these cultural landmarks offers a chance to connect with Austin’s rich Black heritage, reflect on its lasting impact, and gain a deeper understanding of the communities that make our city unique. At Moreland Properties, we’re proud to combine local expertise with a passion for celebrating what makes Austin special. If you're seeking a place to call home in a city with vibrant history and culture, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
