The Third Ward: Then & Now

I was born in Houston in 1959. I am white. My parents taught us one of the lessons by Martin Luther King. "Don't you judge anyone by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." I never understood racism, cringed when I heard the "N" word from people I knew. I would have gotten my butt whipped if I ever disrespected anyone for their color or nationality. I thank God for that every single day. Sadly, my upbringing was most definitely the exception, not the rule.

I grew up in Third Ward and to this day it's a part of my very Fiber. I will never forget the lessons and since of responsibility that I received from my Elders. who lived and worked in the Community. I left in 1986 to explore the world and I can honestly say that I was well prepared for the experience. So shout out to those Elders who are still alive and thank you for your Love and Insight

I was born at St. Joseph's Hospital in 1942. It's right down the street from 'the ward.' When I graduated from university in 1965, i drove over to 3rd ward one Saturday night looking for a jazz band to sit in with. I found The Continental Club, went in and made my way to the bandstand. I was met by Charles 'Spooky' Dancey, (organ) Horace Grigsby, (vocals) and Ronnie Wynn (drums.) They welcomed me up and i played a couple of sets with them. The next day Spooky called and hired me on to work with him that night. I worked with them until Spooky's demise four years later. That experience was really valuable in shaping my musical career. I got to play with topflight musicians that i met through Spooky, both in Houston and Los Angeles, where i spent the summer in 1968. I'm sure the ward has changed, but I fondly remember it as the place where my life-long musical experience was shaped and formulated.

I've lived in 3rd ward for 35 years now and I can honestly say this video was very informative and moving. I've learned so much in less than 15 minutes than I've even been taught in the schools that I attended in 3rd ward. I even saw my grandmother drive by in this video lmao. Thanks so much. This was what I needed.

Great documentary! My Dad's restaurant was on Dowling across from the park.Hogrobrooks Fine Foods. After leaving the Eldorado,people would come and have dinner. I met Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, BB King just to name a few. Growing up in 3rd ward was a good life. I attended Blackdhear,J Will Jones,Miller,Ryan Yates and TSU

I live in Third Ward now and love the history. I sit outside and listen to the TSU band practice. Thank you for the education.

Houston is a place that has more faith than most other places u get blessed just being under the Houston sun

I feel like whenever documentaries are made like this, there’s a lot of information that’s left out...

There was a Hispanic community there! My home in the 90's. Third ward molded the person who I am today.

I'm so proud of our culture ❤️ much love who grew up in Houston 3rd ward.

I am not a Houston native, so I’m not familiar with the history and culture of Houston’s communities. You (and Miss Deloris Johnson!) have helped preserve and share a little information on Black Culture & History, right here in Houston!! Thank you for this video.

I love the lady Delores Johnson. She seems so sweet, kind and involved. I also love the voice of the lady providing the film narration.

Hey everybody! I’m a TSU graduate. Go Tigers!

I'm originally from Third Ward [Palm&Southmore] but grew up in South Park and a proud 1987 graduate of Jack Yates High School.

I'm from the 713. Good lesson. Proud of my City.

Wow I went to Douglas Elementary in 3rd ward before they closed it down, and so did my parents, cousins, aunts and uncles. Never forget where u come from.

This was beautiful. Thank you. I love learning more about our great city. We are a city of many , one, and united.

I'm so proud of those who have fought for equality. I applaud you.

Excellent documentary. I was in Houston about 2 weeks ago and Dowling Street had actually already been changed to Emancipation Avenue. I would have loved to have gone to the Eldorado room get dressed up meet up with my friends and enjoy some excellent Black Talent I heard my mom and my dad used to do that all the time.

Native Houstonian and Texas Southern Alumni. Christian Hope BC is my family church. Oh the stories... especially the story of the day Carl Hampton was murdered. My uncle was murdered during that same time.