Researchers push for historic standing to commemorate civil rights efforts on San Antonio’s East Aspect

SAN ANTONIO – Research at the University of Texas at San Antonio is pushing for certain East Side landmarks to be given historic status. One of the properties is a former shop converted into a home that was bought with borrowed money from the famous Frosts banking family. The money was given to Ernest Qadimasil’s grandfather. Although he has never met him, he says he can practically feel him when he walks past the old house on South Pine Street. “This is attorney Henry Porterfield Roberts, the owner of this house,” said Qadimasil, pointing to a picture of his grandfather as a young man. He learned that his grandfather had fallen in love with a much younger woman. A deal was made for their hand in marriage. “In the African system there are cows or horses or camels or whatever; he had to put three rental apartments on the deal, this shop and this house, before he could marry her, ”said Qadimasil. The house became a secret revolving door for prominent activists in pursuit of equality. Some are as famous as former President Lyndon B. Johnson. “So this structure was the definitive meeting place for African-Americans who campaign for civil rights because churches were burned in the Bexar district,” said Qadimasil. According to research, the house was also the original seat of the NAACP, which was then classified as a communist organization. “San Antonio is one of the first civil rights activities in the United States, here in Bexar County. And we don’t even know that! ”Said Qadimasil. Researcher Charles Gentry helps uncover this hidden story. And is working to determine the historical status of lesser-known San Antonio landmarks. “There are a few, but there should be more,” said Qadimasil. Gentry says that as the East Side of San Antonio is gentrified, historical markers will ensure the community maintains its integrity. “What I see here in San Antonio is an opportunity for parishioners to actually get involved and actually shape what they think the future of this church can and should be,” said Qadimasil. For Qadimasil, finding the right historical markings is personal. It’s an ode to his grandparents. “They are the giants. They are the giants of civil rights: eloquent, gallant, elegant, reserved, patient, ”said Qadimasil.