Charles M. Austin Collection

Charles M. Austin was born in 1938 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He moved Dayton, Ohio as a child in 1942 and lived there until his death on January 13, 2016. He attended Roosevelt High School, graduating in 1955, and served in the U.S. Air Force. Charles was a Dayton-area African-American historian, author, and guest lecturer. As an author, he wrote a number of newspaper articles, pamphlets, and books on African-American history in the Dayton and Montgomery County, Ohio area. His books include a nine volume set entitled “The Historical Record of African American in Dayton and Montgomery County, Ohio: Beginning in 1802-1920.” Other books include “Black People in Dayton and Montgomery County, Ohio from November 1802-July 1887: The Beginning of a Legacy,” and “Paul Laurence Dunbar’s Roots and Much More: A Scrapbook of His Life and Legacy.” He has also written articles for newspapers on historical themes including the repeal of Ohio’s “Black Laws,” crime in the Dayton area during the 1800s, the history of the segregated school district in the Dayton Public School System, and major events and celebrations in the Dayton area during the 1800s. Finally, he has written a number of booklets including “Travelin’ in Th’ Footsteps: Fourth and Main Streets…Memories, Pride, Honor, A Corner of Respect,” Cast Down Your Bucket Where You Are,” and “Travelin’ in Th” Footsteps…The Dayton Youth Movement.”

Along with being an author, Mr. Austin guest lectured for local colleges and high schools, and appeared at community events to discuss Afro-American history and politics. He also discussed African-American history and politics as a guest expert for a number of local radio and Television stations. Many of these lectures and guest appearances are documented in this collection.