Karen Renee Mays Terry, a lifelong resident of Austin’s Rogers Washington Holy Cross area, highlights the importance of distinguishing between living in an area and being part of a true neighborhood. She has been involved in achieving historic designation for her neighborhood, which has produced many influential community members. Karen speaks about gentrification erasing the history of African Americans in Austin. Emphasizing the importance of remembering and honoring the contributions of people of color.
Born and raised in Austin, Marilyn Poole-Webb became active in the neighborhood association as East Austin experienced rapid demographic changes and gentrification. Instead of resisting the inevitable changes, the community embraced them by sharing the neighborhood’s history with new residents. Marilyn emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting the area’s history, which helped new neighbors develop a sense of pride and connection.
Cynthia, a native Austinite, shares that her parents bought their home in 1959 when she was six. Her father, an Air Force member and local artist, attended Huston-Tillotson University and created art displayed around Austin. As a young African American couple, her parents chose their neighborhood to provide family stability in an up-and-coming area. Cynthia recalls moving into their home and the friendly, close-knit community they enjoyed.
Stuart King, a 69-year-old resident, has lived in his neighborhood since 1959. He notes significant changes over the years, primarily the absence of children. King recalls being part of the Jack and Jill organization, a social group that provided educational and cultural activities for families. King expresses a deep attachment and love for East Austin, considering the community as part of his identity.
Connie Jo Kirk, an Austin, Texas native, fondly remembers East Austin as a wholesome, integrated community where Blacks and Hispanics coexisted harmoniously without racial tensions. She recalls a time when neighbors shared recipes and held decorative street parties, fostering a united community spirit. Kirk highlights that East Austin is the original neighborhood of Austin. She emphasizes that East Austin’s rich history and the legacy of its leaders remain accessible for future generations to learn from.