The Architects of Modern Houston - 5.7 Miles

This is an intermodal walk and includes a light rail ride. Bring $1.25 train fare. Or download the METRO Q Mobile Ticketing app.

During the first half of the 20th century the many of the important buildings were designed by two architects who had local practices. Both Joseph Finger and Alfred C. Finn started their practices with traditional beaux arts style designs. Only to become the main promoters of modernism in Houston. We will look at the designs of these two that had the greatest impact on downtown.

The quote, "Building for the masses, not the classes," is attributed to Joseph Finger when he convinced the city to build a modern style City Hall rather than a traditional building. Finger designed numerous stores and was well known for hotels and mid sized building. Notably he designed the crypt a the Beth Israel Cemetery where he is buried.

Alfred Finn also worked on many hotels including the Rice Hotel but made his name designing civic buildings and skyscrapers in the art deco style. Most noted for the Gulf Building, which was a later named Texas Commerce Bank then the JP Morgan Chase Building. He was the the go-to architect for Jessie Jones and designed many government and civic buildings in Houston and elsewhere. Including the San Jacinto Monument and the now demolished Sam Houston Coliseum and Music Hall.

More resources
Joseph Finger
Wikipedia
Texas Historical Association

Alfred C. Finn
Wikipedia
Texas Historical Association

Honorable mention to John Eberson for the art deco Mellie Esperson Building.

For more about these buildings, see our map.
Google Earth App
Google Maps

Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing, comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. The heat in Texas is always a concern so let someone know if you are having a hard time. We can help.

For more information about hiking check out this very useful hiking website:[ https://www.hatsandmore.org/](https://www.hatsandmore.org/)

Our organizers are not guides nor do we have any special training. We are here to come up with ideas and get the walk started. Take the same precautions you would if walking alone, including the fitness needed to make long walks. Then enjoy the day among friends.

Parking:
There is free parking some (but not much) on the streets surrounding the museum. There is more street parking across Main Street near Bodegas. I have always found parking on Calumet St at Caroline St.

The MFAH has a paid garage at 5101 Montrose Blvd.

Gathering Place:
Contemporary Arts Museum
5216 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Google Maps Link

Call or text Tom at 832-439-5797 if you need help at any time during the walk.

Walk Map:

In the photos
Geolocated
KMZ can be loaded into the Arcgis Earth app. This replaces the retired Avenza app.

Online Maps
Google Earth (App required on mobile)
Google Maps

Metro Directions:
Board the Red Line at Main Street Square Station SB.

Exit at Museum District Station.

Optional After Walk Event:
Bodegas Taco Shop/Fia's Pizzeria
1200 Binz St #160.
The stores are on Caroline St.