Ahead of the 160th Juneteenth Fest, KPRC 2’s Zorrie Jones visits Freedmen’s Town with Charonda Johnson to talk legacy, resilience and what’s next for this historic Houston neighborhood.
Commemorate 160 years of Juneteenth by exploring historic towns and celebrating community gatherings from Houston to Galveston.
A construction mishap in one of Houston’s most historically significant neighborhoods has sparked swift action from city officials and community leaders.
Historic bricks laid by formerly enslaved people in Houston’s Freedmen’s Town were damaged by contractors during nearby construction, sparking outrage from preservationists during a month meant to honor Black freedom and heritage.
Step into the heart of Freedmen’s Town and explore a blend of history and creativity at the newly repurposed RowHouse galleries.
Freedmen’s Town, Houston’s historic heart of African American culture, is getting a fresh breath of life!
Join us as we tour the iconic Brick Street, a historic path just two blocks from the African American History Research Center. This classic red brick road symbolizes the struggles and sacrifices of Freedmen’s Town ancestors, embodying their enduring spirit.
Explore the oldest building in Freedmen’s Town, home of Elder Yates and young Rutherford Yates. In 1922, he and his brother Paul launched Houston’s first Black-owned printing press, giving voice to the community.
Explore the J. Vance Lewis house, built in 1907 for pioneering lawyer Joseph Vance Lewis and his wife, Pauline. Known for his vibrant personality, Lewis played a significant role in Freedmen’s Town. Designated a City of Houston Protected Landmark in 2007, this historic site invites you to discover its intriguing history.
Discover the Gregory School in Freedmen’s Town, a historic site and first African-American public school. Open for free visits, it offers lessons and stories year-round.
Explore Marty Bennett’s artwork in Freedman’s Town, showcasing the creations of NFL Super Bowl winner Martellus (Marty) Bennett. Join a special tour that celebrates cherished childhood memories in the childhood home of Mayor Sharonda Johnson. Immerse yourself in nostalgia as you admire the original wood and vibrant art.
Explore Bennett Road in Freedman’s Town, featuring the works of Michael Bennett, NFL Super Bowl winner from Houston and Creative Director of Studio Kër. Join Mayor Sharonda Johnson for a special tour celebrating themes of identity and community. Don’t miss this unique experience!
This article invites you to explore Freedmen’s Town in Houston through a virtual adventure. It highlights the area’s rich history and hidden gems, making it easy for anyone to learn about its cultural significance. Join the journey and discover what makes Freedmen’s Town special!
Welcome to the Freedman’s Town Visitor Center! Since May 2024, it’s been the hub of events and activities. Click the video to explore, and check the map for your next adventure!
Many of the homes in Houston’s Freedmen’s Town have stood since the 1920s, embodying the ingenuity and strength of their builders.
Houston is rich in Black culture and one local influencer is making sure its historic sites built by influential African Americans are not forgotten.
Houston City Council voted to approve a proposed ordinance that would name six neighborhoods as part of a conservation district pilot program. This comes after a vote was tabled last Wednesday.
Houston City Council will vote Wednesday on a proposed ordinance that would name six neighborhoods as part of a conservation district pilot program.
Residents of Houston’s first historically Black community, founded by ex-slaves, notched a victory this month in a debate over redistricting the city’s 11 council districts.
A historic home in the Freedmen’s Town community is at risk of demolition.
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It is called the Serve America Movement and it has now applied for recognition as a political party in Texas. Former Houston Mayoral candidate Bill King is the Party’s Founding State Chair and says his party is seeking those who want nothing to do with radical fringe politics. “All the polling shows the vast majority of Americans are in the middle of the political spectrum,” he said. “It’s only the people who are on the ideological fringes, which is unfortunately what controls the primary election, that drives this narrative that somehow we’re a divided people.” Former GOP Congressman David Jolly is the Executive Chairman of the party and says the SAM party is a logical destination for people who want to see progress over hyper partisanship. “We’re the only big tent party in the United States of America today,” he said. “We want moderates, progressives, conservatives, provided you are committed to the basic problem solving construct that government should reflect, that you’re committed to transparency and accountability, that’s SAM.” See much more about this new party sinking national roots, including Texas on this week’s Houston Newsmakers EXTRA.
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What are the pros and cons associated with a 15 dollar minimum wage increase? Dr. Joyce Beebe is an economist and Fellow in Public Finance at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University. Yates Museum works to purchase and rehab properties in Freedmen’s Town. Yates Museum· Website: https://www.rbhy.org/Catherine Roberts, Co-Founder/Board Member, Rutherford B.H. Yates Museum· Website: https://www.rbhy.org/
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