Colored Teachers State Association of Texas Building
Austin, Travis County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Built by John S. Chase (1925-2012), the first licensed African American architect in the state, this building originally housed the Colored Teachers State Association of Texas. Founded in 1884, the association achieved a number of civil rights victories for African American students and teachers in segregated Texas society. Built in 1952, the one-story asymmetrical contemporary edifice reflects industrial architectural influences through its flat roof, metal casement windows and concrete masonry. The building served the association until it dissolved in 1966. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2016
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
This 1952 building was designed by John S. Chase, the first licensed African American architect in Texas, and originally housed the Colored Teachers State Association of Texas. Founded in 1884, the association won a series of civil rights gains for Black students and teachers in a segregated state. Its flat-roofed, industrial-influenced modern design served the organization until it dissolved in 1966.
Why it matters
The building marries a pioneering Black architect's work with an organization that fought for educational equity, standing at the crossroads of the mid-century civil rights struggle.
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Related people
- · John S. Chase
Themes & tags
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