Red River Street

Formed in the late 19th century, the Red River Street community spanned along the eponymous street from East 5th Street to East 10th Street. Though it lacks an official historical designation, archivist Michelle Mears identifies this location as the Red River Street community due to its geographical location. The development was spearheaded by freedman Jeremiah J. Hamilton through the construction of Hamilton House at the corner of Red River Street and E. 11th Street. Austin’s Symphony Square now occupies that building. Because of the community’s presence, East 6th Street became a crucial business corridor for the African American population during the 19th and early 20th centuries as it was closely connected to Red Rivers Street. Some of the remaining modest commercial buildings along Red River may have historical ties to the former African-American community. By 1905 two churches were established in this community: First Baptist Church (formerly founded as First Colored Baptist Church in 1867) and Wesley Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church (founded in 1865). Both churches still have an active congregation in East Austin. First Baptist now resides in its fourth home at 4805 Heflin Lane. Wesley Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church is now called Wesley United Methodist Church and is now located at 1164 San Bernard Street. The latter is recognized in the National Register of Historic Places and holds the status of a City of Austin Local Historic Landmark. Presently, the area that was the Red River Street community is part of downtown Austin’s commercial core and is surrounded by modern development.

Information provided by the African-American Settlement Survey Travis County, Texas prepared by prepared by Hicks & Company Elizabeth Porterfield, MSHP for Travis County Historical Commission.

This information was supplemented by archivist at the University of North Texas, Michelle Mears, from her book And Grace Will Lead Me Home African American Freedmen Communities of Austin, Texas, 1865-1928.

We recognize that this research is ongoing, drawing extensively from historical documents, archives, and oral histories passed down through generations.

Given the evolving nature of information, it is important to note that details may change. And while inaccuracies may arise, we actively strive to update our records as we acquire new knowledge.