Master plan approved for downtown Houston park to become lynching memorial site

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Published March 8, 2024 at 12:00 a.m. CTUpdated March 8, 2024

Master plan approved for downtown Houston park to become lynching memorial site

Quebedeaux Park in downtown Houston is named after Walter A. Quebedeaux, a lawyer who served 22 years as Harris County’s director of air and water pollution control. A master plan for the park was approved by Harris County commissioners on Feb. 27 that will redevelop the park and surrounding area into a green space that will not only serve as a space for restaurants, shops and community gathering, but also as the memorial for Harris County lynching victims. (Melissa Enaje/Community Impact)

Harris County commissioners approved the master plan for an area in downtown Houston that will be redeveloped into Remembrance Park—a dedicated space where residents and visitors can commemorate the actions and struggles of those who fought for social justice.

One of the park's main focal points in the master plan, according to officials, will be four markers recognizing four individuals who were lynched in Harris County between 1890-1928, according to Precinct 1's website.

The big picture

A rendering of Remembrance Park — More than 15 dedicated spaces are projected for completion, according to the park's master plan that was approved Feb. 27. The point "A" will be the site for the four markers. (Courtesy Harris County Commissioners Court)

Quebedeaux Park and the surrounding area in downtown Houston will be redeveloped into Remembrance Park. The original park is named after Walter A. Quebedeaux, a lawyer who served 22 years as Harris County’s director of air and water pollution control. According to the Precinct 1 website, Quebedeaux was remembered as a pioneer in environmental protection.

The details

According to agenda documents from the Feb. 27 commissioners court meeting, the green space will be comprised of three blocks downtown that will also serve as a space for restaurants, shops and community gathering. From Congress Street to Buffalo Bayou, the park will emphasize space for artistic expression in efforts to bring tourism to Houston and the downtown area. The master plan also includes dedicated space for: