The W.H. Passon Society, Inc. is headquartered in the historic Southgate-Lewis House, which was constructed in 1888 by a bookbinder. The Southgate and Lewis households were two of the families that subsequently lived there.

This striking, two-story Victorian building eventually became the home of Dr. Duane G. Albrecht, a University of Texas professor who later donated it to the society in December 1986.

Located at 1501 E. 12th Street, the house is situated within a former and current hub of black Austin. Besides being a residence, historically the Southgate-Lewis House has also served as an ice cream shop and schoolhouse, and is now used as a visual gallery with permanent exhibits that represent the African American experience in Austin and Travis County.

With grants from the City of Austin, the Passon Society has renovated and upgraded the sidewalks surrounding the house so that mobility issues are improved. The house is available for use as a meeting place or event site. Contact the society for more information or to arrange a tour.