Estey Hall, Raleigh

Estey Hall, an emblem of historical significance and a beacon of progress, graces the campus of Shaw University in Raleigh. A testament to resilience and the pursuit of education, Estey Hall stands as a tangible link to a pivotal era in African-American history.

Constructed in 1873, Estey Hall holds the distinction of being the first building ever erected specifically for the higher education of African-American women in the United States. Shaw University, the oldest historically black college in the South, and the first of its kind to be established for freedmen after the Civil War, had a transformative vision for education. The institution's commitment to progress and equality led to the creation of Estey Hall, reflecting the determination to empower women through education.

Initially, Shaw University was exclusively for men, but the institution's expansion to become coeducational necessitated the establishment of a dedicated facility for women's education. G. S. H. Appleget, the accomplished architect responsible for notable Raleigh landmarks such as the Heck-Andrews House, was entrusted with designing this pioneering building. The result was a four-story brick structure, crowned by a cross-gable roof adorned with a graceful frame cupola—an architectural marvel that mirrored the aspirations of its time.

In 1882, a three-story south annex was thoughtfully added, providing an expanded space to accommodate the evolving needs of the curriculum. Estey Hall became a hub for various disciplines, including home economics, music, art, and religion—a place where young women could pursue knowledge and skills that would equip them for meaningful contributions to society.

Over time, Estey Hall's historical significance was officially acknowledged. The building's enduring impact led to its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, marking its place in the annals of American history.