Theodore R. Capers, Jr.

In Memory Theodore R. Capers, Jr.

Saxon Capers Architects, P.C.

Theodore R. Capers, Jr. was a principal partner in the firm of Saxon and Capers, Architects/Planners, now known as Saxon Capers, Architects PC. During his professional career, he designed many structures around the City of Philadelphia and surrounding counties.

The skate house, formerly named Cobbs Creek Skate House in the Park. Later renamed Laura Sims Skate House in Cobbs Creek Park, was the newest of the City’s rinks.

It is known as possibly the first and only ice skating rink in the country built in an urban community and designed by an African-American. Theodore loved children, so it was in his providence to design a facility for the use and enjoyment of all of God’s children.

List of Achievements of Theodore R. Capers, Jr

Theodore worked diligently with Laura Sims and the Advisory Board to assure that the design and building layout was first-class. To meet the needs of the persons utilizing the rink. Not just for ice and roller skating, but for community meetings and non-skating activities.

Other city projects he completed included the reconstruction of Scanlon and Tarken Skating rinks, one of the designers for renovations of Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library, Robin Hood Dell new addition, International Airport, and several recreation centers.

Theodore graduated from Dobbins Technical High School, now known as Dobbins CTE. Then attended and obtained a Bachelor of Architecture from Howard University. He later pursued graduate study at the University of Pennsylvania. Receiving a Master of Architecture and Master of City Planning degrees.

He was a faculty member in the Department of Architecture at Drexel University and a member of the American Institute of Architects, the Pennsylvania Society of Architects, and the American Planning Association. He served as president of the Minority Architects and Engineers Alliance.

Theodore R. Capers, Jr.’s Journey to the End of His Life

In 1988, the firm was nominated and received a citation from the Philadelphia Commercial Development Corporation’s Minority Business Enterprise Committee as an outstanding professional services firm.

Those who continue to celebrate the fullness of his life are Cynthia (wife), Christopher (son), Delores, and Sheila Capers Alexander (sisters). Deceased family members: Kevin (son), William (brother), Wilhemenia Moody, Bernice Bynum (sisters).