Brenham Normal & Industrial College

Founded circa 1905, the Brenham Normal and Industrial College (BNIC) was the result of a unified effort to provide educational and vocational opportunities for the children of formerly enslaved men and women of Washington County. The school remained in operation, offering elementary through secondary level classes, until 1927 when the Mount Olive Baptist District Association took ownership. The building is still actively used by the Association as a worship center and venue for community gatherings.

A structural assessment in 2021 revealed that water infiltration had caused major deterioration of the roof, threatening the structural integrity of the building. Additionally, most of the building's exterior wooden elements, including the porches, have deteriorated and are in need of replacement.

Grant Award from Preservation Texas: $75,000
Matching funds from the Jean Mills Jefferson Memorial Fund: $25,000
Funds Needed to Raise: $150,000

The grant funding will make it possible to repair the roof and rebuild the porches to ensure the building is structurally sound. Additional funding will enable the removal and replacement of non-original windows and siding that are deteriorated and leaking, with historically appropriate materials.

“The Brenham Normal and Industrial College was the result of the whole community coming together to address the needs of freedmen impacted by a lack of educational opportunities necessary to thrive and succeed. The campus is a historical gem in Washington County and is one of a few historic African American buildings remaining in the area today.”

- David Porter III, Project Liaison

Northwest corner of the circa 1905 Brenham Normal and Industrial College building.

Western facade of the Brenham Normal and Industrial College building.

1913 advertisement for Brenham Normal and Industrial College.

1949 Women’s Convention at Brenham Normal and Industrial College.