Robertson Hill

The land around the French Legation property, named after Confederate Corporal George L. Robertson, would become the roots of what was then known as the Robertson Hill freedom community. This early freedmen community was founded in 1869, north of Pleasant Hill and bordered by East 11th Street, Chincapin Street (now Rosewood Avenue), Leona Street, East Avenue (now I-35), and East 14th Street. The first person to buy land in this newly formed area was Malick Wilson who purchased a lot on E. 11th between Curve and Waller streets. The neighborhood also included European immigrants of German and Italian descent who then left in the early twentieth century. Their homes were sold to successful African Americans after World War I, particularly around E. 11th and San Bernard streets. Robertson Hill was where the Sam Huston Normal College for African Americans, a precursor to today’s Huston-Tillotson University relocated to in 1900. This area has many of Austin’s historic Black churches, including Ebenezer Baptist Church now located at 1010 E. 10th Street and which has an active congregation.

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We recognize that this research is ongoing, drawing extensively from historical documents, archives, and oral histories passed down through generations.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