Foster, George Washington
1866-1923 · Contribution: 1908-1916
Among the first African American architects licensed by the states of New Jersey and New York
Portraits are AI-generated interpretations, not photographs.
Impact on the world
Became one of the first Black architects licensed in New Jersey in 1908 and later in New York in 1916, breaking professional barriers in two states during the early 20th century.
Life & background
An architect, Foster became among the first African American architects licensed by the State of New Jersey in 1908, and was later licensed in New York in 1916, establishing himself as a professional pioneer in both states.
Sources
- Wilson, *African American Architects* (2004); African American Registry
More in Architecture & Design
Abele, Julian Francis
1881-1950
Chief designer responsible for over 30 Duke University buildings and major East Coast institutional landmarks
Bailey, Walter T.
1882-1941
First African American graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's architectural engineering program
Bartholomew, Joseph M. Sr.
1888-1971
Pioneering Black golf course designer in New Orleans
Bates, Robert Charles
1869-1950
First African American author of an architecture textbook; first Black architecture teacher at an HBCU