South Side in Houston in Harris County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
The Murals of Hannah Hall
The murals, some dating to 1950, cover several eras and themes. They depict mostly the lives of African Americans, portraying the brutality committed against them and the hurt and injustice they endured during their history. Some murals depict the artists' feelings toward hope, faith and religion, while others are defiant, bold and striking depictions of oppressive police, brutal slave masters and even unforgiving nature. Overall, a theme of survival amidst insurmountable odds is apparent. The murals are a beautiful, historic monument to the spirit of the university imparted through its students. They tell the story of the struggle of a people through color, texture and time, and are a cultural treasure of Texas Southern University, Houston and the State of Texas.
Erected 2012 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 17750.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Arts, Letters, Music • Education. A significant historical year for this entry is 1950.
Location. 29° 43.381′ N, 95° 21.667′ W. Marker is in Houston, Texas, in Harris County. It is in the South Side. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Cleburne Street and Burkett Street. The marker is located on the campus of Texas Southern University at the north entrance to Mack H. Hannah Hall (facing Cleburne Street). Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 3100 Cleburne Street, Houston TX 77004, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. John Thomas Biggers (approx. 0.2 miles away); Barbara Charline Jordan (approx. ¼ mile away); George Thomas "Mickey" Leland III (approx. ¼ mile away); Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ (approx. 0.3 miles away); Trinity United Methodist Church (approx. 0.6 miles away); Sam (Lightnin’) Hopkins (approx. ¾ mile away); Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church (approx. 0.8 miles away); Reverend John Henry "Jack" Yates (approx. 0.8 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Houston.
Also see . . .
1. TSU Earns Museum Award Grant to Support Murals in Hannah Hall. Texas Southern University (Submitted on November 13, 2023, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.)
2. Biggers, John Thomas (1924–2001). Texas State Historical Association (TSHA)
As an artist Biggers is best known for his murals, although he was also well respected for his drawings, prints, and sculpture. His influences, including African art and Southern African-American culture, are clearly visible in his art. In the 1940s Biggers portrayed social realism by painting what he saw as a young African American. His art transformed during the 1950s, particularly after his trip to Africa, when he began painting pictures that portrayed traditional African culture. As Biggers aged, his murals became more abstract and symbolic. His works often contained shotgun houses, churches, or railroads, which were symbolic of Black culture, spiritual rebirth, and travel. Biggers died of a heart attack on January 25, 2001, at his home in Houston, Texas. His legacy remains visible in the murals that can be found on the walls of libraries, colleges, and other public buildings in Houston and throughout the South.(Submitted on November 13, 2023, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.)
Credits. This page was last revised on November 13, 2023. It was originally submitted on November 13, 2023, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 106 times since then and 55 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on November 13, 2023, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.