Romulus C. Archer facts for kids

Romulus C. Archer Jr. (born March 11, 1890 – died November 29, 1968) was an important American architect. He was an African American who designed several notable buildings. Two of his most famous designs are the Virginia University of Lynchburg (which was first called Lynchburg Baptist Seminary) in Lynchburg, Virginia and the Saint Paul African Union Methodist Church in Washington D.C.. Both of these buildings are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, meaning they are recognized as historically important.

Archer was born in Norfolk, Virginia. His parents were Romulus Cornelius Archer and Mary Poindexter Archer. In 1915, he married Louise Archer, who was a teacher and a leader in the civil rights movement.

Archer's Architectural Career

Romulus C. Archer Jr. was known for designing many different types of buildings. These included homes, business buildings, apartment complexes, and churches. Many of his projects were located in the northeast Brookland area of Washington D.C.

Working with Other Architects

Archer also helped other architects start their careers. James Alonzo Plater, another architect, worked for Archer from 1934 to 1936. Later, Plater moved to Philadelphia. John B. Holloway Jr. (1913-1983) also worked for Archer for a short time around 1938. Both Holloway and Archer designed homes in a neighborhood called Eastland Gardens.

Awards and Recognition

Romulus C. Archer Jr. was recognized for his excellent work. He even appeared in Jet magazine. This happened after he received a special merit award from the Washington Board of Trade. This award showed how much his contributions to architecture were valued.

Final Resting Place

Romulus C. Archer Jr. is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. This is a famous cemetery where many important Americans are laid to rest.

Images for kids

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  Mount Zion Baptist Church, Arlington VA, in 2022