The Black Family Who Built America

The McKissacks, Two Centuries of Daring Pioneers

De: Cheryl McKissack Daniel, Nick Chiles

Narrado por: Robin Miles

The riveting story of the McKissack family—the founders of the leading Black design and construction firm in the United States, from its beginnings in the mid-1800s to its thriving status today—in a moving celebration of resilience and innovation.

Captured in his native West Africa and enslaved on American shores by a North Carolina plantation owner, Moses McKissack I began to build his way to emancipation right from the start. Becoming an enslaved craftsman, he picked up the trade his family would become famous for in the earliest years of the 19th century, passing his learnings down to his children and seeing them off to freedom after the Civil War.

The family would settle in Tennessee, getting its bearings in the building trades despite rampant discrimination, establishing a foothold that now sees its latest generations working at the absolute peak of its industry.

The family’s fingerprints have been left all across the United States, spanning from Reconstruction to contemporary times, through projects like the Morris Memorial Building, Capers C.M.E. Church, John F. Kennedy International Airport, and Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field.

Here, Cheryl McKissack Daniel, CEO and president of McKissack & McKissack, reveals the full fascinating story of her family. So much more than an exploration of architectural achievements, The Black Family Who Built America is also a compelling illustration of how history rhymes and reverberates, and a celebration of the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and drive change. From Moses’s humble beginnings to Cheryl’s current role as a trailblazer and champion of diversity, the family’s journey underscores the importance of perseverance, innovation, and strategic vision in shaping a legacy that continues to inspire and impact the construction industry.

My Guiding Light

Reading "The Black Family Who Built America: The McKissacks, Two Centuries of Daring Pioneers" could not have come at a better moment in my professional journey. This exceptional story left me both moved and inspired. As an African-American woman newly promoted to a senior leadership role in an environment where all my direct reports are male, I found both encouragement and a sense of solidarity within these pages. Seeing a woman persevere through persistent racism and sexism resonated powerfully, motivating me to confront similar challenges in my workplace with renewed strength and professionalism.

The narrative of the McKissack family is not only fascinating—it’s profoundly instructive. I was deeply impressed by the author’s ability to weave a story that moves from past to present and back again, providing both the historical foundation and the context necessary to appreciate each triumph and setback. This storytelling approach offered valuable insight into why certain events unfolded while maintaining a rich sense of legacy and continuity. Knowing that this is a true story, and one that is still unfolding, fills me with hope and optimism.

I sincerely hope future generations of the McKissack family will read this book and draw inspiration from their remarkable heritage. Their enduring impact on the fabric of America is undeniable, and their legacy is a testament to resilience, innovation, and commitment to uplifting communities. I am proud to have learned the McKissack story, and I look forward to my next travels to Tennessee and New York with a new sense of anticipation—there is so much more to discover, and so much to be grateful for.

Evidence Based -Authentic Storytelling

This book was beautifully displayed of American History and Women History in Business. The bonus is learning African American history of resilience and enterprise which are two cornerstones of United States foundation.

It was lighthearted yet realistic storytelling of hard times as well. A lot of accomplishments by this Business Titan and Black Women. Love and legacy.

Excellent Book

Really enjoyed this book. It teaches history, life lessons and knowledge of how to thrive in the construction industry. Great read!

Black Excellence

This is a powerful story of resilience, determination, and excellence. I'm so glad I chose this book!

Chapter 9

This chapter describes my life during the early 90’s in many ways. Very well written. Highly, highly, highly recommend this read.

What an incredible legacy and to still exist what a feat‼️

culture

A very smooth and easy listen and it doesn't feel like it was very long

Family legacy and transparency in storytelling.

This not was a great story and also made me want to invest more in my own family legacy and business

Why Did You Wait So Long?!

This is such an amazing story for the country to learn about. It’s inspirational and yet still shows the struggles of the industry and successful black people today. Cheryl you are amazing and as a fellow woman in construction I’m blessed to have learned your story back when I was in undergrad but to also have met you when you spoke to the National Association of Women in Construction Atlanta Chapter!

An Inspiring and Authentically American Story

Great story. Great narration. An authentic tale of the American story through a unique lens. Inspiring, funny, and packed with lessons for everyone.

Inspirational

The Black Family Who Built America is more than a family history—it’s a strategic blueprint for anyone in construction, leadership, or legacy-building. Cheryl McKissack Daniel delivers an unforgettable account of five generations of Black excellence in the building trades, from enslavement to executive leadership.

This story is inspirational and a building block for current construction leaders and new entrants alike. It shows how vision, grit, and strategic thinking can overcome systemic barriers and shape skylines. Whether you’re navigating procurement, managing teams, or launching your own firm, the McKissack legacy offers lessons in resilience, innovation, and generational impact.

Cheryl’s journey—from inheriting a legacy to expanding it in one of the toughest markets in America—is a roadmap for leadership in action.

If you’re in the construction industry, this book belongs on your shelf. If you’re building anything—teams, businesses, or futures—it belongs in your hands.