City of Houston Planning and Development

Planning & Development

Historic Preservation: Lyons Avenue

Preserving the History of Houston’s Fifth Ward:

Houston is one of the most diverse and fastest-growing cities in the country. Back in the 1800s, the city was divided into six areas called "wards." The Fifth Ward was officially created in 1866, shortly after the Civil War. It became home to many formerly enslaved African Americans and quickly grew, especially after the railroad was built. However, in 1912, a major fire damaged much of the area and slowed down its development.

Despite the setback, the Fifth Ward, and especially Lyons Avenue, bounced back and became a vibrant hub for Black life and culture. The neighborhood was full of Black-owned businesses like tailor shops, pharmacies, grocery stores (like the Louis White store), and the historic DeLuxe Theater. Lyons Avenue became the heart of the community.

Today, the City of Houston’s Office of Preservation is working to protect and celebrate that history. With support of a grant from the Texas Historical Commission, the City is proposing that a four-block stretch of Lyons Avenue be added to the National Register of Historic Places. This designation helps recognize, honor, and preserve the unique history of the Fifth Ward for future generations.

This project is being initiated by the City of Houston Office of Preservation in the Planning & Development Department which is funded in part through a Certified Local Government Grant from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, as administered by the Texas Historical Commission.

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