Spokane’s history is often told through the lens of its most prominent figures, yet stories like Mr. Clarence Freeman’s shine as powerful reminders of resilience, determination, and the profound contributions of Black leaders to our community.
Mr. Freeman was more than a real estate developer or a contractor – he was a visionary who reshaped Spokane in ways both tangible and symbolic.
After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, Clarence moved to Spokane seeking opportunity in a world where racial segregation and discrimination were constant barriers. Undeterred, he made a home here and left a legacy that continues to inspire.
One of his early accomplishments was the purchase of the Merlin Apartments at 29 W. Second Ave., which he transformed into housing for military families who struggled to find homes elsewhere due to racial prejudice. This was just the beginning. Through Freeman Construction Co., Clarence built numerous residential and commercial properties in Spokane, cementing his reputation as a skilled and reliable builder.
Among his notable projects were two Spokane icons: the drive-in for Dick’s Hamburgers and Frankie Doodle’s restaurant.
Eating at Dick’s today feels special when you know it was built by a Black man–a pioneer who defied societal barriers. It becomes more than a meal; it’s a celebration of resilience and excellence in the face of injustice.
Beyond construction, Clarence Freeman’s influence was felt across Spokane. He was a trailblazer, becoming the first Black president of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) at Whittier School and leading the Kiwanis Club of West Spokane. He spearheaded Spokane’s first job fair, offering new opportunities to a community in need, and campaigned tirelessly for the improvement of Liberty Park.
Clarence’s impact extended to his personal connections as well. He counted among his friends Carl Maxey, Spokane’s pioneering civil rights attorney, and Jim Chase, who became Spokane’s mayor in 1981. Together, they worked to uplift Spokane’s Black community, forging paths for future generations.
Clarence Freeman’s journey was not without struggle. As a young student, he faced the sting of systemic racism, labeled a “slow learner” and relegated to what even teachers called “the bonehead school.” But Clarence proved them wrong, raising his grades and returning to the honor roll at Lewis and Clark High School. His determination to rise above adversity was a hallmark of his life, a lesson for anyone who dares to dream big in the face of great odds.
The story of Clarence Freeman is a reminder that the Black community’s contributions to Spokane run deep. From the structures he built to the policies he shaped, Freeman’s work laid the foundation for a more inclusive city. Today, Dick’s Hamburgers and Frankie Doodle’s remain community staples, owned by an Asian American woman, and stand as a testament to the shared histories and contributions of Spokane’s diverse communities.
In the heart of East Central Spokane and beyond, Clarence Freeman’s legacy reminds us to build – whether it’s homes, opportunities, or relationships – with resilience, care, and a commitment to lifting others. It’s a call to honor those who came before us by continuing to create and sustain spaces where every voice is heard and every contribution is valued.