Kerr Community Center facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Kerr Community Center
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Kerr Community Center 2008
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 Kerr Community Center
Location in Texas
Kerr Community Center
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1308 Walnut St., Bastrop, Texas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1914 |
| MPS | Bastrop Historic and Architectural MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 78003339 |
| Added to NRHP | December 22, 1978 |
The Kerr Community Center, once known as Kerr Hall, is an important building in Bastrop, Texas. It served as a main gathering spot for the African-American community in Bastrop. This was especially important during a time in the United States when people were separated by race, known as racial segregation. The building was recognized for its historical importance and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 22, 1978.
Contents
History of the Kerr Community Center
Building the Hall in 1914
The Kerr Community Center is a two-story building made of wood. It was built in 1914 by Beverly and Lula Kerr. They built it right behind their own home. This hall quickly became a lively place for the black community in Bastrop.
A Place for Community and Fun
The center hosted many social events. People gathered there for parties, meetings, and celebrations. It also featured amazing artistic performances. Famous black artists, like the blues pianist Roosevelt Williams, performed there. He was known to his fans as "Grey Ghost."
Supporting Soldiers During World War II
During World War II, the Kerr Community Center played another important role. It became a USO post. A USO post is a special place for soldiers to relax and have fun. This particular post was for black soldiers who were stationed at Camp Swift nearby.
New Ownership and Renovations
Beverly Kerr passed away in 1941, and Lula Kerr died in 1944. In 1946, some local citizens decided to keep the center going. They formed the Kerr Center Association. This group bought the building from the Kerr family's estate.
The center had an official dedication ceremony in 1952. This marked its new beginning as a community-owned space. The building later received major updates. These renovations were finished in 2007. They even added a small park and a playground for everyone to enjoy.
See also
External links
- Texas Historic Sites Atlas
- "Holiday Homes Tour". The Bastrop Advertiser, December 1, 2007. pp 14A.
