Living History: Tyler’s Black Business District Remembered

May 25, 2025

Living History: Tyler’s Black Business District Remembered

TYLER, TX- (ENJ Staff) The RTC Social Group presented a commemoration to “Remember the Cutt” and Tyler’s Black Business District on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Attendees were invited to take a walking tour, describing the many businesses and the families that owned them, as the sun beamed bright over the historic neighborhood. The tour was guided by Wendell Warren and Duane Terrell.

A portion of the walking history tour stops for a picture in front of the new mural on “the Cutt.”

After an opening prayer, the official program began with the audience singing in unison, “We’ve Come This Far by Faith”, followed by a heartfelt welcome from Linda Halsell-Roberson, and the introduction of committee members by Committee Chair Phyllis Williams-Tave.

Committee Chair Phyllis Williams-Tave introduces fellow RTC committee members to the crowd, shares group growth since its formation a few years ago.

Larry Hampton, of the locally known Hampton Brothers singers, set a tone for the day of quiet reflection and hope filled inspiration, with a powerful rendition of Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come.”

Larry Hampton, of the Hampton Brothers singers, looks to the heavens, as he performs “A Change is Gonna Come.”

Rev. Dr. James Hawkins takes the crowd on a “Walk Down Memory Lane.”

The occasion was presented by the Rev. Dr. James Hawkins, pastor of Higher Heights Community Baptist Church, Tyler. Rev. Hawkins moved the crowd with “A Walk Down Memory Lane,” reminding attendees of the greatness of the local culture embodied in the history of the Black Business district, which thrived from the 1940’s until the late 1980’s.

Councilwoman Dr. Shirley McKellar reads the Proclamation from the City of Tyler commemorating the history of Tyler’s Black Business District.

Former City Councilmember Dr. Shirley McKellar presents the Official Proclamation & Key to the City in commemoration of the historic Black Business District of Tyler, TX. Committee Chair Phyllis Williams-Tave and Linda Halsell-Roberson, Financial Officer, pictured.

Former City Councilmember Dr. Shirley McKellar delivered a Key to the City and Proclamation from the City of Tyler, commemorating May 24 as the official “Day of Remembering the Cutt” in Tyler, and citing the contributions of the business district to the overall culture and history of Tyler, TX.

Brenda Johnson spoke about the historical Black businesses that populated the Cutt in its heyday, followed by “Life on the Cutt” presentations by Mary Humber Franklin, Mary Corney Hubbard, and Master Sergeant Walter McCauley. Many memories were shared about the Green Top Cafe, Gizmo Restaurant #1, Sweatt’s Beauty College, (Whitaker’s) Five-Point Barber Shop, Harris Grocery & Market, Johnson’s Grocery & Deli, Luin’s Boarding House & Kindergarten, McCoy’s Funeral Home, the Karamu & Harlem Movie Theaters, the Capri, Palace, Ritz, & Zanzibar Nightclubs, Dr. Young’s Pharmacy and MANY more.

Brenda Johnson recounts well-known history, and newly discovered gems, during her segment on business & development on “the Cutt.”

Mary Humber Franklin returned home from the Dallas area to reconnect with old friends and share memories of “growing up on the Cutt.”

Mary Corney Hubbard gives a personal account of “life on the Cutt,” sharing fond memories dating as far back as 1943.

Master Sergeant Walter McCauley, decorated Vietnam Veteran, speaks of the culture of “the Cutt,” during its prime. He spoke of the pride, respect, and connectedness of the community that helped it to thrive.

Roll calls of historical Black businesses on the Cutt, and in the Tyler area, were led by Linda Halsell-Roberson, Carolyn Landers Warren, Rachel Thurman Monday, and Wendell Warren.

Cynthia Warren Davis gave recognition and history of the churches on the Cutt: Greater St. Mary Baptist Church, Houston Temple COGIC, North Tenneha Church of Christ, and Miles Chapel CME. Rachel Monday and Carolyn Warren then presented rememberances of Tyler Black Schools before integration, and a recognition of local Black educators.

The day’s activities convened at Woldert Park, with a private “Old School Social” from 1-6pm, with music & dancing, food, fellowship and games.