NASHVILLE, USA – September 8, 2025
A new book, The Black Family Who Built America: The McKissacks, Two Centuries of Daring Pioneers, chronicles the incredible legacy of McKissack & McKissack, the nation’s oldest Black-owned and woman-owned design and construction firm. The book, co-authored by Cheryl McKissack Daniel, the fifth-generation CEO of the company, and Nick Chiles, traces the family’s journey from its enslaved ancestors to its current status as a major player in the construction industry.
Headline Points
* A Family’s Legacy: The firm’s history begins with Moses McKissack, a slave who learned the construction trade. His grandsons, Moses III and Calvin McKissack, became the first licensed Black architects in the United States and officially incorporated the company in 1905.
* Decades of Perseverance: For more than 120 years, the McKissack family has defied adversity, passing the company down through five generations and leaving a significant mark on the American landscape. The book highlights the family’s resilience and determination in an industry where opportunities for Black-owned businesses have historically been limited.
* Iconic Projects: The book celebrates the company’s design and construction achievements, which include a wide range of projects across the country. Notable works include the New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport and Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field.
* More Than Just Buildings: According to the publisher, the book is not merely a chronicle of architectural and engineering feats. It also serves as a testament to the McKissack family’s ability to overcome challenges and drive change, and it reinforces the importance of recognizing the contributions of Black innovators in American history.
