Clarksville

Historic Charm in the Heart of the City. Central Austin.

The Vibe

Clarksville is a neighborhood steeped in profound history and quiet charm, offering a small-town feel just steps from the vibrant energy of downtown Austin. It is a place of immense cultural significance, where historic homes, funky condos, and trendy apartments line peaceful streets. Known for its incredible walkability, Clarksville attracts a creative and diverse population that values its unique character, rich heritage, and unbeatable central location.

The Story

Clarksville’s story is one of resilience and community. Founded in 1871 by freedman Charles Clark, it is the oldest surviving “freedman’s town” west of the Mississippi River. Clark established the community on land that was then outside the Austin city limits, envisioning it as a safe haven where formerly enslaved people could build their own lives and freely practice their religion. The Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church, founded before 1882, quickly became the heart and soul of the neighborhood and remains a cornerstone of the community today. Throughout the 20th century, Clarksville residents resisted pressure to relocate, including the city’s discriminatory 19 Master Plan and a proposed expressway in the 1970s that would have destroyed the neighborhood.27 This enduring spirit led to the area being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, preserving its invaluable history for future generations.27

The Lifestyle

The lifestyle in Clarksville is defined by its quiet, quaint atmosphere and its incredible proximity to city amenities. It is a hub for those who prefer to navigate the city by foot or bike, with easy access to the stylish shops and restaurants on Lamar Boulevard, the trails at Lady Bird Lake, and everything downtown has to offer. Residents can spend their weekends exploring local art galleries, enjoying a picnic at Pease Park, Austin’s first public park, or letting their dogs run free at the West Austin Neighborhood Dog Park. The neighborhood’s central location attracts a hip, creative, and diverse population that contributes to its unique and exciting ambiance. It offers the perfect blend of a classic neighborhood vibe with the convenience of big-city living.

The Homes

Clarksville’s residential landscape is a charming mix of architectural styles and housing types. The streets are lined with beautifully preserved historic homes, many dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which give the neighborhood its unique character. These historic properties coexist with funky, trendy condominiums and apartments, offering a range of living options. Many of the original homes are built in styles like National Folk and Craftsman, including the “hall-and-parlor” house, a simple two-room typology common in early Clarksville. While the neighborhood has evolved, its commitment to preserving its history is evident in the careful restoration of its older structures and the work of organizations like the Clarksville Community Development Corporation (CCDC), which provides affordable housing to help maintain the community’s character.

Local’s Guide to Clarksville

• For a Taste of History: Visit the historic Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church, the community’s spiritual heart since the 1880s.
• For a Refined Meal: Clark’s Oyster Bar for fresh seafood in a stylish setting, or Wink for an intimate fine-dining experience.
• For Outdoor Recreation: Pease Park Conservancy, an 84-acre urban oasis with shaded trails and historic features, or the nearby Butler Hike & Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake.
• For a Neighborhood Stroll: Walk the historic streets to see remnants of the past, like the Pease Plantation Stone Wall and the Haskell House, one of the area’s earliest homes.