The Flats – A Legacy Installation

Discover a powerful story of community, culture, and resilience in Downtown Garland

Just northeast of Garland’s historic downtown square lies the story of The Flats—a once-thriving, free-standing African American community that helped shape the city’s cultural and social fabric. Today, The Flats – A Legacy Installation invites visitors to step into this history through art, storytelling, and immersive experiences.

A Historic Community Worth Remembering

Developed in the early 20th century, The Flats was a vibrant neighborhood where families lived, worked, worshipped, and learned together. At its heart were essential community institutions, including:

The Colored School (1936–1948), a regional education center
A Methodist Church (1939–1964)
Locally owned businesses such as cafés, barbershops, and grocery stores
A close-knit residential area that remained active into the 1960s

Though the original structures are no longer standing, ongoing research—led by community members, nonprofits, and City of Garland staff—has preserved the voices and memories of those who lived there. Oral histories and primary sources continue to build a richer, more complete record of The Flats.

Image of The Flats from 1947 Sanborn Map

Explore the History Behind the Celebration

Discover the rich and often untold history of Garland's African American community through Hidden Stories of African Americans in Garland, Texas & Beyond. This community-driven historical project explores the people, places, churches, schools, businesses, and leaders who helped shape Garland's identity long before 1970. Special attention is given to The Flats, Garland's original African American neighborhood, where residents built a thriving, resilient community despite the challenges of segregation and discrimination.

Through photographs, research, personal stories, and historical records, visitors can learn about the individuals and organizations that advocated for progress, fostered community pride, and laid the foundation for future generations. The project serves as both a tribute to those who came before and an opportunity to better understand Garland's diverse heritage.

Continue exploring the story in Volume II, which follows the history of Garland and the surrounding communities from the 1970s to the present day.

Explore the Hidden Stories Project:
https://hidden-stories-garland-9ckc7dy.gamma.site/

Experience The Flats Today

Visitors can explore The Flats through a series of thoughtfully designed features that bring its story to life:

Texas Historical Commission Marker at the original site
Five Interpretive Panels sharing insights into daily life and community experiences
A stunning permanent mosaic installation located near The Atrium in Downtown Garland

Together, these elements create a meaningful, self-guided experience for cultural and historical tourists seeking authentic stories of place.

A Living Story Through Art & Technology

The centerpiece of the installation is a vibrant mosaic created by nationally recognized public artist Reginald C. Adams. Known for blending art, education, and community storytelling, Adams brings The Flats to life in a visually compelling way.

Reginald C. Adams is a nationally recognized public artist with over 300 projects and a track record of engaging more than 50,000 community participants. His work bridges art, education, and cultural storytelling.

Part of Garland’s Cultural Arts District

The Flats installation is located within Garland’s Bankhead Cultural Arts District, designated by the Texas Commission on the Arts. This district celebrates the city’s rich artistic heritage and its historic connection to the Bankhead Highway—one of the nation’s earliest transcontinental routes.

While you’re here, explore nearby attractions, including:

The Granville Arts Center
The Landmark Museum
The Plaza Theatre
Downtown Garland’s charming square is filled with local shops and restaurants

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, cultural traveler, or art lover, The Flats – A Legacy Installation offers a meaningful and memorable experience in the heart of Garland.

Walk through the story, reflect on the past, and see how Garland continues to honor and share its history in innovative ways.