WILLIAM RUSSELL LAWSON
US General Services Administration
African American AIA Fellow
SAY IT LOUD - Washington DC Exhibitor
Washington DC Based Designer
Bio:
From 1991 through 2006 he was paramount in the preservation of the oldest and largest known excavated burial ground in North America for both free and enslaved Africans and the subsequent construction of the African Burial Ground National Monument in New York City.
WILLIAM RUSSELL LAWSON
Bio:
The great architect William Lawson attended McKinley Tech High School in Washington, D.C., and at the young age of 17 was admitted to Howard University to study architecture. In 1965 he received his 5-year Bachelor of Architecture degree from Howard University and upon graduation began his lifetime, dedicated career as a public servant at the General Services Administration (GSA). In the 1960’s Bill was on the Reston Zoning and Planning Commission. He worked closely with Reston’s Founder, Robert E. Simon, and was integral in the design and the continued development of Reston’s garden city planning concept. From 1991 through 2006 he was paramount in the preservation of the oldest and largest known excavated burial ground in North America for both free and enslaved Africans and the subsequent construction of the African Burial Ground National Monument in New York City. Later in 2001 he was presented with a ceremony of appreciation for his countless efforts and continued support of the United States Secret Service and it’s missions. Further, he met President Clinton at a Secret Service building dedication ceremony, where the President thanked him personally for his years of commitment, resolve, and perseverance in supporting the people that protect him.
Object:
Object Four - Public service, government, industry, or organization
Year of Elevation:
1997
Featured Project Name:
African Burial Ground National Monument in New York Citys
Featured Project Location:
New York, New York
Featured Project Completion Date:
2007
Role in Featured Project:
Design Architect at US General Services Administration
Featured Project Description:
The African Burial Ground is widely considered to be one of America’s most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century. The center features five public artworks commissioned and funded by the General Services Administration. "Unearthed" by Frank Bender, is a bronze sculpture inspired by three of the individuals removed from the burial ground. "America Song" by Clyde Lynds is a sculpture composed of granite, concrete and fiber optics, and features an Indian headdress and feathers.
