Albert J. Walker’s story is deeply intertwined with the history of the East End Cultural Heritage District, formerly known as "Blackland."
This historic East Austin neighborhood, defined by the boundaries of North of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd, South of Manor Road, East of I-35 and West of Chestnut Street, once stood as one of the few places where African Americans could own property during segregation.
"When I was growing up, Blackland was more than just a place to live," Walker said. "It was a community — united, strong and full of pride."
Now 88 years old, Walker was born and raised in this neighborhood, which remains an integral part of his identity. His journey as one of the first Black firefighters for the Austin Fire Department stands as a testament to both his resilience and that of the community he calls home.
The Heritage District holds a significant place in Austin's history. In the early 1900s, it was one of the few neighborhoods where African Americans could own land and build businesses, an opportunity made possible by the segregationist policies that kept African Americans and whites largely separate.
During segregation, the area flourished with self-sustaining businesses, churches and schools as Black residents created their own community spaces. The neighborhood was a sanctuary for Black families seeking economic independence and cultural solidarity in a city that largely excluded them from mainstream life. Over the decades, this area has become home to countless Black families who have contributed to Austin’s rich cultural fabric.
Walker’s own experience growing up in East Austin was shaped by both opportunity and adversity. Despite the limitations imposed by segregation, the neighborhood remained a thriving, self-sufficient community.
Walker, who worked as a firefighter from 1963 to 1993, was determined to break barriers in a city that did not always make room for Black people.
"When I became a firefighter, I wasn’t just doing it for me; I was doing it for every Black person who had been told no," Walker said. "I wanted to prove that we could be just as good, if not better, than anyone else."
Discrimination was a constant reality for Black residents of East Austin, and their businesses were often excluded from the city’s accepted economy. Walker’s groundbreaking career as a firefighter is a significant part of the district’s legacy. When he joined the AFD, he was one of the first Black men to wear the uniform while facing discrimination.
"At the time, Black people faced significant discrimination in public service, and I was no exception," Walker recalled.
Despite these challenges, Walker persisted, breaking barriers for future generations.
"It wasn’t easy, but I knew it was worth it," Walker said. "By pushing through, I was opening doors for others, and I knew I had to keep going, no matter how hard it got."
As Austin’s population grew, so did the pressures of urbanization. Gentrification began to reshape the East Austin landscape. Longtime residents like Walker watched as rising rents and new developments displaced families who had lived in the neighborhood for generations.
"I’ve seen it change over the years,” Walker said. "Very few of my friends live here anymore. They’ve all moved away. But the people who remain have always found a way to rise above. "
Despite the shifting tides of gentrification, the East End Cultural Heritage District remains a neighborhood of historical significance and cultural identity. The area continues to honor its rich past, which has included being a home for legendary African American artists, business owners and civic leaders.
Today, efforts to preserve the district's cultural heritage are ongoing. The neighborhood is part of the City of Austin’s initiative to preserve Blackland's unique history and legacy. The area is home to cultural landmarks, public art installations and community-driven projects that highlight the significant contributions of African Americans to Austin’s development.
"People need to know the history," Walker stressed. "If we don’t tell it, who will?"
His words reflect the importance of preserving the district’s legacy, especially in the face of gentrification and the erasure of cultural landmarks.
"Though the neighborhood has changed, the spirit remains," he said. "We’ve been through a lot, but we’re still here and that’s what matters."