AUSTIN, Texas — A ranch-style house in East Austin took a significant step toward historic landmark designation last week.

The Historic Landmark Commission heard testimony about the Calhoun House at 2401 Givens Avenue, built in 1959 by T.C. and Thelma Calhoun, who were integral figures in Austin’s Black community.

“It represents the determination of a group of people to thrive against the odds because of segregation,” Patricia Calhoun told commissioners, referring to the 1928 city plan that forced Black residents from West Austin to the east side of town.

Patricia Calhoun, who grew up in the home and returned in 2016, recounted how her parents traveled every summer to schools or conferences out of state when segregation meant Black travelers had to carefully plan where they could safely stay overnight.

“My dad had his own travel book containing his network of people and towns that were safe to spend the night,” she said.

The Calhoun House itself served as one of those safe havens, regularly welcoming Black travelers and educators.

T.C. Calhoun served as principal of Kealing Junior High School, the only middle school for Black students in Austin during segregation, for 30 years until his retirement in 1971. Thelma Calhoun worked as a Jeanes supervisor for segregated Travis County schools and later as a reading specialist. Both held leadership positions at Ebenezer Third Baptist Church and numerous civic organizations.

“This is one of the most intact concentrations of post-World War II housing for African Americans in Austin as an early neighborhood developed by Black professionals,” said Mary Kahle, a Preservation Austin board member.

The commission’s recommendation now moves to the Planning Commission and City Council for final votes on the landmark designation later this year.