Over 400 buildings in the region, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, were designed by the trailblazing Black architect and Philadelphia native Julian Abele, writes Janelle Burrell for CBS News Philadelphia.

Abele was the first African American graduate of University of Pennsylvania’s School of Architecture, a feat he achieved in 1902, when segregation and racism were rampant.

“It’s one thing just to get into school,” said William Whitaker, curator of architectural archives at the University of Pennsylvania, “but then he was also the best student.”

One of the homes he designed is the 111-year-old Eisenlohr Hall, which is now the official home to Penn’s president.

“We know Julian Abele made the shapes, decided on the details of the fireplaces, the crown molding, the casement work around the windows and doors,” said Whitaker.

Whitaker was the lead architect for one of the most prestigious firms in Philadelphia in the early 1900s.

His lasting imprint can be found on many important buildings throughout the city, including the Parkway Central Library. In addition, he conceived the plans for Harvard’s main library and buildings at Duke University.

Since he mostly stayed out of the limelight during his lifetime, Abele has only been recently credited for much of his work.

Read more about Julian Abele and his lasting architectural work at CBS News Philadelphia.

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