East Austin Black History Walk Tour

Austin, US

Included

  • inclusion
    Tour includes walking and learning about the historical significance of african american culture

Meeting Point

Austin African American Cultural &Heritage Facility - by the benches at the front of the building. Please don't enter the building.

Meeting point

912 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702 , United States

End point

End Point

This tour ends at the George Washington Carver Library & Museum, near the Voyage to Soulsville Mural

Meeting point

1165 Angelina St, Austin, TX 78702 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

African American Cultural and Heritage Facility

Our guide will meet you by the benches at the front of the building to discuss the history and start the tour. Guests will learn about the history of African Americans in East Austin and the creation of the "Negro District" in 1928 by the City of Austin. We will discuss the historical formation of the neighborhood and the movement of African Americans from throughout the Austin area to East Austin. They will see the African American Heritage Cultural Center's mural dedicated to influential African Americans in Austin. Guests will also engage with the Dedrick-Hamilton House, which was constructed by formerly enslaved persons by the 1890s. It was continuously lived in by family members until the late 20th Century.

Duration 20 minutes
2

Victory Grill

After passing by the Rhapsody Mural guests will learn about the Historic Victory Grill's emergence during the Jim Crow period. They will also learn about the Chittlin Circuit and Austin's African American music history.

Duration 10 minutes
3

Wesley United Methodist Church

Guests will visit the historic African American church which was founded in 1865 at the end of the Civil War. Guide will discuss how the church was founded by freedman.Guests will learn about the role of religious institutions in the African American community. Austin's oldest institution of higher learning, an HBCU Huston-Tillotson, was founded in this church's basement. Guests will also see the "Lynching in Travis County" marker that's on Wesley's lawn. This important marker allows for guests and guide to engage in a conversation about lynching in Austin and ways that African Americans resisted such violence through community and institution building.

Duration 15 minutes
4

George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center

Tour concludes at the George Washington Carver Center. Here guests will learn about the Austin's Black community's petition to have the segregated branch of the public library physically moved to the 'Negro District.' The guide will explain reasoning as to why African Americans renamed segregated institutions after prominent members of the Black community. Guests will also engage with the Voyage to Soulsville mural painted by John Fisher. This mural is important to Austin's Black community as it was finished in 1986. John Fisher is an Austin native and was trained by legendary artist, Dr. John T. Biggers at Texas Southern University. The tour guide will interpret the mural make direct connections to other aspects discussed on the tour.

Duration 15 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Black Austin Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit nearby brunch spot: Blue Dahlia
  • icon
    Check out the local art murals
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    Bring water, stay hydrated during walk
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    Consider visiting the Carver Museum later
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    Explore local shops on E 11th St

More About this Experience

Introduction

Join [ProductName] for an immersive journey through the rich history of Austin's Black community on the East Austin Black History Walk Tour. This tour delves deep into the roots of the city's African American culture, exploring significant sites and institutions that have shaped the neighborhood over the years.

What to expect?

Guests can anticipate a captivating experience filled with insights into the historical significance of East Austin and the contributions of the Black community to the city. From learning about The City of Austin's 1928 Master Plan to discovering the vibrant culture of East 11th Street, this tour offers a unique perspective on Austin's past and present.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone eager to delve into the diverse heritage of Austin. Whether you're a local looking to learn more about your city or a visitor seeking a deeper understanding of its roots, this experience welcomes all individuals interested in celebrating African American history.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the heart of Austin's Black community with [ProductName]. This tour goes beyond the surface, offering a meaningful exploration of the city's heritage and the resilience of its residents. By supporting local Black-owned businesses and engaging in dialogue about East Austin's evolution, guests not only gain knowledge but also contribute to the preservation of a vital cultural legacy.

Good to know

As you embark on this insightful journey, be prepared to walk approximately one mile and engage in thought-provoking discussions about the changing landscape of East Austin. The tour culminates at the George Washington Carver Library & Museum, providing a fitting end to a day filled with discovery and reflection.

Reviews

Guests rave about the East Austin Black History Walk Tour, praising its knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and eye-opening exploration of Austin's Black community. Many appreciate the tour's emphasis on supporting local businesses and fostering a deeper connection to the city's diverse heritage. Don't miss out on this enriching experience that celebrates the past, present, and future of East Austin.

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