Harris–Stowe State University
Located in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, Harris–Stowe State University (HSSU) is a historically Black university shaped by educational progress, cultural resilience, and the history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Formed through the merger of Harris Teachers College and Sumner Normal School/Stowe Teachers College, HSSU’s history reflects a journey from segregation to integration and empowerment in American education.
Today, HSSU serves as an important institution for educational equity, particularly for minority and underserved populations. For official resources, visit the Harris–Stowe State University official website.
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 was established in 1857 as the first public teacher training institution west of the Mississippi River, serving white students (NAIA.org).
Sumner Normal School was founded in 1890 to train Black teachers. In 1929, it was renamed Stowe Teachers College to honor abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe (NAIA.org). Both colleges developed four-year degree programs and achieved accreditation by 1924 (HSSU Strategic Plan, p. 5).
Desegregation, Merger, and Development
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 represented a major step toward desegregation and inclusivity.
HSSU joined Missouri’s public higher education system in 1979 and expanded beyond teacher education into 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, Alumni, and Community Legacy
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 its students are Pell Grant recipients, and 83–86% are from minority backgrounds (St. Louis Public Radio; HSSU Strategic Plan, p. 15). The university produces African American graduates, particularly in STEM, and remains a cornerstone for educational access and social mobility.
HSSU alumni have contributed to education, business, and public service (St. Louis Argus; Alumni US). The university is also a community anchor, hosting events and offering resources such as the William L. Clay Sr. Early Childhood Development/Parenting Education Center. Leaders including Dr. Henry Givens Jr. and current president Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith have propelled HSSU’s growth and championed educational access and social justice (STLPR, 2021).
What to See
Stowe Teachers College Building
Constructed in the early 20th century, the Stowe Teachers College Building was central to the education of African American teachers during segregation. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of its contributions to academic excellence and community uplift (HSSU Strategic Plan, p. 6).
Guided building tours include historic classrooms and multimedia archives. The Harris Teachers College and Stowe Teachers College buildings, the campus courtyard, and the community garden are also popular spots for photography.
Practical Visiting Information
Location, Hours, and Admission
- Campus address 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.
- Campus visiting hours Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Check the HSSU website for updates around holidays and special events.
- General campus admission Free. Some special events may require tickets or registration.
- Stowe Teachers College Building address 3026 Laclede Avenue, Midtown St. Louis.
- Building hours Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed weekends except for special events.
- Building admission Free; donations are welcome to support preservation.
- Special events Occasional lectures, commemorations, and community gatherings. See the HSSU website for schedules.
Tours and Accessibility
Guided campus tours are available by appointment through the Admissions Office and cover campus history, architecture, and student life. Building tours are also available by appointment and last approximately 45 minutes.
The campus provides wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms, and parking. The Stowe Teachers College Building is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available near its main entrance. Visitors requiring accommodations or with special needs should contact the university or notify staff ahead of their visit.
Tips
- Schedule tours in advance. Campus tours can be arranged through Admissions or the Visitor Center.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as building tours involve walking through historic areas.
- Some campus spaces are outdoors, so check the weather before visiting.
- Photography is permitted, but flash and tripods are not allowed indoors. Respect campus guidelines on flash and tripod use; flash and tripods are not allowed inside historic buildings.
- Check the HSSU website for events and visitor updates.
- Download the Audiala app for interactive maps and travel tips.
- HSSU offers an opportunity to explore educational progress and African American heritage; visitors can combine a campus visit with nearby St. Louis attractions.
Nearby Places
- Gateway Arch An iconic St. Louis monument, a short drive away.
- Fox Theatre A historic performing arts venue.
- Forest Park One of the nation’s largest urban parks.
- Missouri History Museum Features exhibits on local and African American history.
- Soulard Neighborhood Known for its history, music, and dining.
Frequently Asked Questions
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: General campus 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, but 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.
