Texas Christian University unveiled newly commissioned portraits honoring Charley and Kate Thorp, former slaves who played a significant role in the university’s formation. The couple, whom co-founder Randolph Clark wrote extensively about, were trusted workers who provided essential services on the campus. Through a campus race and reconciliation initiative, TCU was able to connect with some of Charley and Kate’s descendants, one of whom hopes to become the first in their family to attend TCU.
Marcellis Perkins, a TCU race and reconciliation researcher, shared that Charley was a firefighter and nurse on the original TCU campus, while Kate assisted with laundry and other services. The Thorps were never recognized until now, with the unveiling of commissioned portraits that depict their essence through the silhouettes of their descendants.
Debra Holmes, a descendant of the Thorps, expressed her happiness and pride in learning about her family’s connection to TCU. She believes that recognizing Charley’s contributions is a way of stepping into his shoes and speaking for him. Holmes shared her hope that her great-granddaughter will be the first in their family to attend TCU, continuing the legacy of the Thorp family.
The Portrait Project at TCU aims to honor and acknowledge the contributions of individuals like Charley and Kate Thorp, whose impact on the university’s history has long been overlooked. The unveiling of the portraits serves as a symbolic recognition of their legacy and a step towards greater inclusivity and representation in the university’s history.
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