Harris–Stowe State University

Harris–Stowe State University Visiting Guide: St. Louis Historical Site Information

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Harris–Stowe State University (HSSU), located in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, stands as a testament to educational progress, cultural resilience, and the enduring legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Formed through the merger of Harris Teachers College (est. 1857) and Sumner Normal School/Stowe Teachers College (est. 1890), HSSU embodies a journey from segregation to integration and empowerment in American education. Today, HSSU continues to serve as a critical institution for educational equity, particularly for minority and underserved populations.

This guide provides an in-depth look at HSSU’s history, its evolution into a modern university, and practical visitor information—including campus tours, accessibility, highlights, and nearby attractions. Special attention is given to the Stowe Teachers College Building, a site on the National Register of Historic Places, which offers a unique perspective on African American educational heritage.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, prospective student, or cultural traveler, this comprehensive resource equips you with everything needed to plan a meaningful visit to Harris–Stowe State University—one of St. Louis’s most significant educational and historical landmarks. For official resources, visit the Harris–Stowe State University official website, and consult additional context at St. Louis Public Radio and NAIA.org.

Introduction
History of Harris–Stowe State University
Visiting Harris–Stowe State University
Stowe Teachers College Building
Alumni, Community, and Social Justice Legacy
Plan Your Visit – Summary, Tips, and Next Steps
Sources and Further Reading

History of Harris–Stowe State University

Founding and Early Development

Harris–Stowe’s origins reflect the segregated educational landscape of 19th-century St. Louis. Harris Teachers College, established in 1857, was the first public teacher training institution west of the Mississippi River, serving white students (NAIA.org). In 1890, Sumner Normal School was founded to train Black teachers and was renamed Stowe Teachers College in 1929 to honor abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe (NAIA.org). Both developed four-year degree programs and achieved accreditation by 1924 (HSSU Strategic Plan, p. 5).

Desegregation and the Merger

In the wake of the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision, Harris and Stowe Teachers Colleges merged, creating an integrated institution and advancing educational equity in Missouri (Study Abroad Aide). The merged college symbolized a major step toward desegregation and inclusivity.

Expansion and Modernization

HSSU joined Missouri’s public higher education system in 1979, expanding its programs beyond teacher education to include urban affairs, business, criminal justice, and STEM fields (HSSU Strategic Plan, p. 6). University status was conferred in 2005, and in 2021, HSSU received a statewide STEM mission designation (HSSU Strategic Plan, p. 7).

HBCU Designation and Impact

Designated an HBCU in 1987, HSSU is one of only two such institutions in Missouri, alongside Lincoln University (St. Louis Argus). More than 80% of students are Pell Grant recipients, and 83–86% are from minority backgrounds (St. Louis Public Radio; HSSU Strategic Plan, p. 15). The university excels in producing African American graduates, particularly in STEM, and remains a cornerstone for educational access and social mobility.

Visiting Harris–Stowe State University

Hours, Tours, Admission, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (Check the official website for updates around holidays and special events.)
Campus Tours: Guided tours are available by appointment through the Admissions Office. Tours cover campus history, architecture, and student life.
Admission: General campus access is free. Some special events may require tickets or registration.
Accessibility: The campus provides wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms, and parking. Visitors requiring accommodations should contact the university in advance.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Location: 3026 Laclede Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63103. The campus is easily accessible via MetroBus and major highways. Visitor parking and public transit options are available.
Nearby Attractions:
- Gateway Arch: Iconic St. Louis monument, a short drive away.
- Fox Theatre: Historic venue for performing arts.
- Forest Park: One of the nation’s largest urban parks.
- Missouri History Museum: Offers exhibits on local and African American history.
- Soulard Neighborhood: Renowned for its history, music, and dining.

Photographic Highlights

The Harris Teachers College and Stowe Teachers College buildings, campus courtyard, and community garden are popular spots for photography. Please respect campus guidelines regarding flash and tripod use.

Stowe Teachers College Building: A Living Landmark

Historical Significance

Constructed in the early 20th century, the Stowe Teachers College Building was central to the education of African American teachers during segregation. It is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, honoring its contributions to academic excellence and community uplift (HSSU Strategic Plan, p. 6).

Visit Details

Address: 3026 Laclede Avenue, Midtown St. Louis
Hours: Open Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Closed weekends except for special events)
Admission: Free; donations are welcome to support preservation
Special Events: Occasional lectures, commemorations, and community gatherings. See the HSSU website for schedules.

Guided Tours and Accessibility

Guided tours (approx. 45 minutes) are available by appointment and include access to historic classrooms and multimedia archives.
The building is wheelchair accessible; visitors with special needs should notify staff ahead of their visit.
Parking is available near the main entrance.

Photography and Visitor Tips

Photography is permitted, but flash and tripods are not allowed indoors.
Wear comfortable shoes, as tours involve walking through historic areas.
Some campus spaces are outdoors—check the weather before visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the campus visiting hours?
A: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Confirm any changes due to holidays or events.

Q: Are campus tours available?
A: Yes. Schedule guided tours through Admissions or the Visitor Center.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No. General access is free. Some special events may require tickets.

Q: Is the campus accessible to people with disabilities?
A: Yes. Accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking are provided.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, except flash and tripods are not allowed inside historic buildings.

Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: Gateway Arch, Fox Theatre, Forest Park, Missouri History Museum, and the Soulard neighborhood.

HSSU alumni have contributed to fields such as education, business, and public service (St. Louis Argus; Alumni US). The university serves as a community anchor, hosting events and offering resources like the William L. Clay Sr. Early Childhood Development/Parenting Education Center. Visionary leaders—such as Dr. Henry Givens Jr. and current president Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith—have propelled HSSU’s growth, championing educational access and social justice (STLPR, 2021).

Plan Your Visit – Summary and Tips

Explore rich history: HSSU is a living archive of educational progress and African American heritage.
Enjoy accessible and informative tours: Schedule in advance for the best experience.
Combine your visit: Take advantage of nearby St. Louis attractions.
Stay informed: Check the HSSU website for events and visitor updates.
Connect digitally: Download the Audiala app for interactive maps and travel tips.