01
William Madison McDonald builds on the site
McDonald, an influential banker, businessman, political leader, and civil-rights advocate widely recognized as Texas's first Black millionaire, constructed a Colonial Revival mansion on the property.
History of the House
02One corner. More than a century of Black possibility.
The story of Renaissance House is not only architectural. It is a story of enterprise, education, hospitality, leadership, preservation, and a community choosing what should endure.
1201 E. Terrell Avenue
Historic Southside
Fort Worth, Texas 76104
The throughline
The House has always been about who could gather there.
William Madison McDonald used enterprise and civic power to strengthen Black Fort Worth. May Pearl and C.W. Flint Jr. made their home a center of social and community life. Renaissance House carries that instinct forward in a new form.
The timeline
From McDonald to Renaissance.
More than a century of enterprise, hospitality, preservation, and community life connects this corner to the future of 76104.
02
May Pearl McDonald marries C.W. Flint Jr.
After McDonald's death, his widow May Pearl married Fort Worth entrepreneur Clarence W. Flint Jr.
03
The current mid-century home is built
The Flints built the four-bedroom home now known as Renaissance House. It featured marble work associated with Bill McHarg, later known for work at the Kimbell Art Museum.
04
A gathering place for Black Fort Worth
The Flints opened their home for gatherings, celebrations, civic leaders, and organizations, including the Fort Worth chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
05
May Pearl Flint's lifetime of service closes
May Pearl Flint was an educator, businesswoman, and committed community volunteer. The property later stood vacant for years.
06
A possibility returns
Jennifer Giddings Brooks discovered the home was for sale and invited her longtime friend Marnese Elder, who brought a background in public health, into the vision.
07
The property is acquired
Brooks and Elder acquired the property and began restoring it as a place for preservation, health access, and neighborhood education.
08
The doors open again
Renaissance House welcomed residents as a new community hub serving the people of 76104.
A living legacy
Every family holds part of the story.
The history of Terrell Heights also lives in photographs, memories, traditions, and the voices of current and former residents. Renaissance House honors that living record with the care, context, and dignity it deserves.
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