Austin’s Black Cultural District:
Where History Lives and
Culture Thrives
About Us
Six Square is the heart and steward of Austin’s African American Cultural Heritage District—a living archive where history, culture, and community converge. As the first designated Black cultural district in the state of Texas, Six Square preserves and amplifies the stories, spaces, and legacies that shaped East Austin, while actively investing in its future. Through public art, historic preservation, cultural programming, and community partnerships, Six Square ensures that the voices and contributions of African Americans are not only remembered, but experienced. We are a place of pride, resilience, and creativity, where heritage is honored, culture is celebrated, and the community continues to rise.
Our Mission
Preserve Heritage
Celebrate Culture
Empower Community
Connect Generations
What We Protect, Celebrate, and Build
Heritage & History
Six Square protects and honors the historic landmarks, churches, homes, schools and cultural sites that reflect generations of Black life and achievement in Austin. From historic venues to treasured community institutions, we safeguard the tangible roots of a proud legacy.
Art & Culture
Through exhibitions, music, public art, festivals, and cultural programming, we bring to life the creative spirit that has made this district a center for Black artistic expression and community celebration.
Community & Connection
Six Square is more than a place, it’s a people-centered movement. By engaging residents, creatives, businesses, and partners across Austin, we foster community pride, connection, and sustainable growth.
Economic & Social Empowerment
We strive to use culture and heritage as engines for economic opportunity, supporting Black-owned businesses, creative entrepreneurs and inclusive development throughout the district.
Rooted in History. Alive in Community.
As part of the City of Austin’s segregationist 1928 Master Plan, African American residents and institutions were forced to relocate to a six-square-mile area in East Austin, then known as the “Negro District.” Despite systemic disinvestment, the area flourished as a hub for Black businesses, churches, schools, music, and community life.
Formed in 2013 through the Austin City Council’s African American Quality of Life Initiative, the Six Square nonprofit works to preserve this legacy through cultural arts, education, economic development, and historic preservation—ensuring that Austin’s Black history remains visible, protected, and influential amid ongoing change.
Arts & Cultural Programming
Showcasing the voices, talent, and creativity of Black artists through exhibitions, performances, murals, festivals, and cultural events.
Historic Preservation
Protecting and restoring the homes, churches, schools, and cultural landmarks that tell the story of Black Austin, from the early 20th century to today.
Community Engagement & Education
Connecting residents, youth, and visitors through workshops, tours, school partnerships, and storytelling initiatives that honor heritage and build opportunity.
Explore the District
Six Square encompasses sites such as Huston-Tillotson University, the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility, Oakwood Cemetery, Downs Field, and the historic East 11th and 12th Street African American Music and Commercial Corridors, alongside murals and Black-owned small businesses.
Historic Landmarks
Historic Landmarks
Public Art
Public Art
Schools
Schools
Museums
Museums
Cultural Centers
Cultural Centers
Black-owned Businesses
Black-owned Businesses
Experience Six Square
Explore historic landmarks, attend cultural events, support local Black-owned businesses, or engage with community programming. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of Austin’s African American community continues to thrive.
