4th Ward Legacy Built Upon Bricks Will Survive

HOUSTON -- A joint effort between Mayor Bill White and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee will preserve the history of Freedmen's Town in the 4th Ward - brick by brick.

Residents of the historic district were concerned that improvements in water and sewage lines would require the sacrifice of the antiquated brick walkways along Andrews Street.

At an Aug. 7 news conference Rep. Jackson Lee said "we will preserve them with new technology and a new design. We will ensure that the bricks will not be torn up."
The red bricks that line the paths along that street were laid by freed slaves in the 19th century.Some residents say the historic district has already been taken over by newly-built condominium complexes and high-rise office buildings, but now the red brick history will continue.