To wrap up our Tenth Street series, let’s dig into the deep and bumpy history of the school right across the street: N. W. Harllee Early Childhood Center. Established in 1928, N.W. Harllee Elementary School held the distinction of being the first Dallas school named after an African American. Its namesake, Norman Washington Harllee, was a former slave who became a prominent educator and civic leader in Dallas. Born around 1847 in North Carolina, Harllee taught himself to read and write using a Webster spelling book, eventually serving as principal of the Dallas Colored High School from 1901 to 1912. He was also an author of educational textbooks and an unwavering advocate for African American education. The school quickly became a beacon of learning and community for African American children in the Tenth Street area. Notable alumni include blues musician Aaron Thibeaux “T-Bone” Walker and Olympic gold medalist Rafer Johnson.
Despite many challenges, including a decline in enrollment that led to its closure in 2013, the school reopened in 2015 as N.W. Harllee Early Childhood Center, serving Pre-K through first grade. In 2016, the community celebrated the unveiling of an Official Texas Historical Marker at the school, recognizing the rich history of the Tenth Street Historic District and Harllee’s role within it.
Today, N.W. Harllee Early Childhood Center stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Tenth Street community, honoring its past while educating future generations. As we conclude this series, it’s evident that the Tenth Street Historic District is more than a collection of buildings and streets; it’s a living narrative of resilience, culture, and history. From its origins as a Freedman’s Town to its present-day efforts to preserve its heritage, Tenth Street remains a vital part of Dallas’s diverse tapestry.
It’s easy to pass by a school and see just another name on a sign. But every name has a story, and Norman W. Harllee’s story is one of vision, struggle, and progress. Remembering him—and the school that bears his name—is a reminder that education has always been about more than just learning. It’s about possibility, legacy, and the responsibility to carry that forward.
