Photo from Untold Architectural book
There is no doubt that the African American community has a considerable impact and influence on American landscape and history – and we’re talking specifically about the field of architecture.
It takes courage to venture out and share with the world the works of African Americans that contributed and made a significant impact on the community.
This very feat author Ronald Lee Harden was able to conquer.
In the Untold Architectural Book by Ronald Lee Harden, readers are taken to the other side of architectural history that only shows the positive impacts of Blacks on society.
“Untold Architectural Black History of Tampa, Florida: My 36-Year Architectural Career in Tampa.”
The book provides a deep insight into the world of architecture and, more specifically, a closer look into the works of architect and author Ronald Lee Harden.
For over 36 years, Ronald has been a beacon to the community of Tampa, leading the development and culture through managing several architectural projects. Some of Ronald’s projects include the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Gaither and Bloomingdale High Schools, the Harbour Island project, Mobley Park, and Osbourne Landing Apartments.
These projects were not only able to successfully provide shelter by creating homes, but they were also able to enhance lives by providing access and opportunities to livelihoods and cultural events with African Americans and other mixed communities in the city of Tampa.
Breaking Barriers
African Americans have been trailblazing throughout history in different works of art. One particular piece of art stood out that broke barriers and crossed all obstacles that differentiate one person from the other, especially when it comes to their race – and that is in the field of architecture.
Blacks, or African Americans, have been actively involved in architecture and construction since the colonial time of America. It all began when the slave labor force heavily driven by enslaved Africans was relied on to develop America’s plantation system.
This stereotyping of Blacks regarded as enslaved people has long been carried over throughout history, with remnants still echoing in today’s society. Progress in their career was difficult for African Americans, and they found themselves back then being barred from the architecture profession.
Blacks were builders and not creators or designers – a stigma that threateningly would have lasted throughout the history of men had it not been for some Supreme Court rulings, particularly the landmark case of Brown v. Board of Education. This 1954 case ruling changed the world of education for African Americans, where racial segregation in schools was declared unconstitutional.
From then on, those Black students who were unafraid of the spotlight started attending and graduating in colleges – and architecture, both as a course and profession, opened up to them.
Ronald Lee Harden’s Works
Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center
One of the proudest moments in the architect’s life was being part of the design team for the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center in 1984. The structure was renamed to Straz Center for the Performing Arts in 2009. The center was considered the second-largest performing arts complex in the Southeastern United States.
Often called Tampa’s “cultural crown jewel,” the complex comprises five theaters, a rehearsal hall, retail shops, restaurants, and banquet facilities.
Gaither and Bloomingdale High Schools
School buildings were also part of the author/architecture’s achievement, specifically Gaither and Bloomingdale High Schools. One significant factor between the two schools is that both share the same architectural design.
Harbour Island
Harbour Island (not to be confused with Harbor Island in the Bahamas) is a community located across the Garrison Channel, neighboring Downtown Tampa. During its early years, the island was primarily used as a railroad yard and phosphate-loading terminal.
When the Beneficial Land Corporation purchased Harbour Island in 1979, commercial and real estate started to break ground and slowly developed into the community it is now known – Ronald Lee Harden was part of the development and creation process.
Mobley Park and Osbourne Landing Apartments
Mobley Park and Osbourne Landing Apartments also fill up the author’s architectural achievements list. These lifestyle apartments were designed with comfort, fitness, and luxury in mind for homeowners.
A Must-Read
“An Artist is one who has Faith in Himself, and in so doing Enriches the World.” Ronald Lee Harden
Get ready to be inspired and be moved as the author takes you on an enriching journey and insightful look into the history of Black architecture in Tampa, Florida. Grab a copy of the book Untold Architectural Black History of Tampa, Florida: My 36-Year Architectural Career in Tampa on Amazon, or visit the author’s website at www.ronaldleehardenartist.com.
