College Hill, McKissack School, Mt. Olive, St. Andrews

Located near the southern edge of Tennessee State University’s campus, College Hill is a historic community featuring McKissack-designed homes and a strong connection to Black education and culture. One of its streets, Geneva Circle, was named after Calvin McKissack’s wife, Geneva.

The neighborhood showcases midcentury architectural styles, including Ranch, Split-Level, Minimal Traditional, and Contemporary designs, with isolated examples of Colonial Revival Ranch and Mansard-style homes. Built between 1950 and 1960, these frame and brick houses typically include one or two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, and bath. The curving streets, simple landscaping, and low stone walls reflect modernist planning ideals.

College Hill was envisioned as a vibrant center for Nashville’s Black community, incorporating single-family homes, duplexes, rental units, and a planned shopping center. While mid-century urban renewal and Interstate 40 construction led to some losses, much of the neighborhood remains intact. A notable midcentury home can be seen diagonal from the College Hill historical marker at 941 35th Ave N. Before you leave the neighborhood, drive around Geneva Circle and look for 3506 and 3400 Geneva Circle. 

Historically, College Hill was home to TSU administrators and faculty including Walter Davis and Robert and Cary Gentry. The Gentry family was known for hosting annual Christmas dinners, bringing the neighborhood together. Residents also gathered at Hale Stadium, known as "The Hole," to walk the track and build community.

Two of Nashville’s most historic churches stand along College Hill, both relocated here after being displaced in the 1950s. Saint Andrews Presbyterian Church, originally founded in 1898, moved to its current neoclassical building in 1955, featuring a symmetrical design with a large pedimented portico. At the northern end of College Hill stands Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, whose current brick neoclassical structure was completed in 1954. Its roots trace back to 1848, when it began as a mission for enslaved and free Black worshipers under First Baptist Church. After the Civil War, it became First Colored Baptist Church but later split to form Mount Olive in 1887.

Completed in 1954, McKissack Middle School was named after Moses McKissack III, who passed away in 1952. Originally replacing Clifton Elementary, the school’s mid-century modern design features large windows, elegant yet restrained detailing, and a low, expansive roof. Its motto, "Whole Child, Whole School," reflects its commitment to student growth with a focus on STEM education and school spirit.

From 35th Ave N, turn onto Clare Ave. Look for 3401 and 3309 Clare Ave. as you exit the neighborhood. Turn LEFT onto 33rd Ave N, then RIGHT onto Albion Street, driving past Hadley-Lillard Park. Turn RIGHT onto 28th Ave N, passing under I-40 and turn LEFT onto Herman Street. Stay on Herman St. for approximately one mile. Turn LEFT onto 21st Ave N and RIGHT onto Hermosa St. When you reach Dr. DB Todd Jr. Blvd, turn LEFT then turn RIGHT onto Jackson Street to reach the Fisk University campus. Street parking is available on Jackson or 17th Ave N. Enter campus and find the historical marker in front of the Carnegie Library, now the Academic Building. Learn more about all of the buildings at Fisk on our Fisk and Meharry walking tour.