York, Charles W., 1924-2004

Dr. Charles Weldon York was born on July 26, 1924, to Dr. Orphus and Mrs. Bertha Richardson York of Panhandle, Texas. York attended The University of Texas at Austin from September of 1941 until November 1943 at which time he joined the United States Navy. Serving aboard several ships in the Amphibious forces in the Pacific Ocean, York received an Honorable Discharge in April 1946.

After readmittence to The University of Texas at Austin in September 1946, York majored in Interior Design and graduated in May of 1949 with a Bachelor of Science. York was the first male student to receive a degree in Interior Design and Home Economics at The University of Texas at Austin. In June 1950, York received a Masters Degree in Retailing from New York University. York later received his Ph.D. in Housing from Florida State University in June 1967.

York worked briefly at Neiman Marcus in Dallas in the Decorative Gallery and Gift Shop. In the fall of 1952, York became a faculty member in the Interior Design Division in the Department of Home Economics at The University of Texas at Austin. During his tenure at The University of Texas at Austin, York was promoted through the ranks of assistant, associate, full professor, and Head of the Interior Design Division. Upon his retirement in 1985, York had served on the faculty of The University of Texas at Austin for a total of 33 years.

In addition to his work at The University of Texas at Austin, York designed a Texas-The Lonestar State plate which was produced by the Fondeville china factory. York also served as the chief curator of the special historic rooms at the Mary C. Gearing building and assisted with the redesigning of the interior of the president’s residence at The University of Texas at Austin during the term of President Harry H. Ransom in 1960.

Charles W. York died March 3, 2004 from the effects of colon cancer. He was a member of the American Institute of Interior Designers and the National Society of Interior Designers.