Director’s Message
February 2015
Greetings!
CONTENTS
Norfolk Public Library (NPL) is excited to offer you special events this February in recognition of its African-American History Month celebration. NPL recognizes cultural months in order to promote civility, learning, and cultural diversity, and to cultivate a deeper understanding of our country’s history. In this guide, you will find quality events scheduled at all NPL locations including musical performances, lectures, art exhibits and more. Additionally, there is a historical timeline in the back of the guide highlighting many prominent AfricanAmerican individuals, businesses and organizations from 1915 to the present who have made invaluable contributions to the Hampton Roads community. There is also a 2015 Black History Month booklist and an updated online events calendar online. Go to www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org/AAHM. Be sure to like NPL on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date with library events and services!
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Art Exhibit @ Slover Library
Black History Month events are sponsored by the Friends of the Norfolk Public Library, and coordinated by the NPL Multicultural Committee.
Would you like to make a suggestion for future cultural celebrations? Please send your comments to npl.comments@norfolk.gov.
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Norfolk Journal and Guide Building and Annex (1927) Lobby of the Plaza Hotel (circa 1950s) Booker T. Washington High School Homecoming Parade (1955) First Blyden Branch: One room on 2nd floor of the first Booker T. Washington High School (1921)
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Historical Timeline: African-Americans in Hampton Roads
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Special Black History Month Events
Thank YOU Sponsors!
On the cover: 1. Elliott Family String Quartet: 25th SEVAA Anniversary (Southeastern Virginia Arts Association) (2007) 2. Kevin Maynor Concert at the Wilder Auditorium (2007) 3. Legacy of Weyanoke: 25th SEVAA Anniversary (2007)
TREK for Civility Week Celebration
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See you at the Library!
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NPL Honors Dr. Martin Luther King
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Honoring MLK
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-Dr. Martin Luther King,Jr.
(January 15, 1929 - April 4, 1968)
The Voices Of Norfolk Concert Choir
Saturday, January 17 @ 2 PM Blyden Branch Library Enjoy a rousing afternoon of hand-clapping, spiritfilled music! This concert is a tribute to the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Family) The Voices Of Norfolk Concert Choir was founded in 1967 by Mr. Bernard Shell Sr. with alumni from Booker T. Washington High School, Norfolk State College (now University), and members of local churches.
TREK Saturday Afternoon Storytime: “My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Saturday, January 10 @ 11:30 AM Blyden Branch Library Residents from the community, Blyden Branch staff and members of Phi Delta Kappa sorority unite to present a reader’s theater production about the life of Dr. King. (Family)
Saturday, January 17 @ 2 PM Janaf Branch Library Help children understand the importance of “Tolerance, Respect, Empathy and Kindness” (TREK) through a special Storytime, activity and discussion surrounding the life of the late Dr. Martin Luther King. (School Age)
We Have a Dream Posters
*Supplies provided Tuesday, January 20 @ 2:30 PM Jordan-Newby Branch Library Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday by making “Peace, Hope and Equality” posters. (Family)
“A World of Equality” Art Mural to Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Tuesday, January 20 (All Day Event) Blyden Branch Library Let’s honor a great man, Martin Luther King Jr.! Stop by to help create a masterpiece mural to be displayed during Black History Month in February. (Family) These events are part of NPL’s
TREK for Civility Week Celebration January 17-24, 2014
TREK stands for for TOLERANCE, RESPECT, EMPATHY and KINDNESS. NPL encourages everyone to choose courtesy and consideration at every opportunity. 1
Creating a City of Readers
Special Events African-American History Month Opening Celebration
“A Century of Black Life, History and Culture in Hampton Roads” Sunday, February 1 @ 3 PM Slover Library NPL honors five distinguished African-Americans who have made unique contributions to the black community in Hampton Roads: James A. Clark, Jack Holmes, Bonnie McEachin, Reginald Walker, and P.B. Young. Dr. Patricia Saunders Nixon, Assistant Professor of Voice at Norfolk State University, will perform. For more information, please call Dudley Colbert at (757) 441-2852. (Family)
Black History Month Scavenger Hunt
Tuesday, February 3 @ 4 PM Horace C. Downing Branch Library Learn about famous African-Americans while polishing your Internet surfing skills. (School Age)
Interesting People Puppet Show
Explore the dramatic lives of Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Garrett Morgan, Matthew Henson, Gwendolyn Brooks, Wilma Rudolph, Madam C.J. Walker, Duke Ellington, and others in a puppet presentation. (Family) Tuesday, February 3 @ 5:30 PM Larchmont Branch Library Thursday, February 10 @ 5:30 PM Little Creek Branch Library
Meet Addy: An American Girl
Hosted by A Book Club Just for Girls *Registration required Pretlow Anchor Branch Library Wednesdays @ 4:30-5:15 PM (Feb. 4, 11, 18 & 25) This month, A Book Club Just for Girls shares the story of Addy, a courageous girl determined to be free in the midst of the Civil War. Enjoy discussion and snacks. (School Age)
Art Exhibit: “African-American Artists of Hampton Roads”
Saturday, February 7 @ 10 AM - 4 PM Slover Library View paintings, sculptures, quilts and photographs by some of Hampton Roads’ finest artists: Loretta Craig, Robert Floyd, Michael Graves, Clara Huff, Solomon Isekeije, Larry Johnson, Linda Kelley, Ernest Lowery, Gerome Meminger Sr., Maizelle, Linwod Pettaway, Michael Raphael, Earl Shelton, Clayton Singleton, and Ken Wright. (Family) Schedule:
10 AM - 3 PM - Exhibit open 11 AM - Artist Talk: Quilter, Loretta Craig 2 PM - Lecture: Artist, Solomon Isekeije 3 PM - Reception
Distinguished SMC Speakers Series: Barbara Hamm Lee
“The History of African-Americans in Television News” Thursday, February 5 @ 7 PM Slover Library ~ 6th Floor Meeting Room When you watch television news today, it is not unusual to see African-American news anchors such as Lester Holt, a national anchor on NBC, or Barbara Ciara, a local anchor on WTKR. But it hasn’t always been this way. In fact, African-Americans on television news is a relatively new phenomenon. Guest speaker Barbara Hamm Lee shares the history of African-Americans in television news and how one Hampton Roads city led the way towards integrating the airways. (Adults)
Ubuntu Dance Collective
Choreographer Sunshine Allison leads this energetic group of women and children in a presentation that fuses ancient and contemporary African, Caribbean, and urban dance styles. (Family) Saturday, February 7 @ 1 PM Horace C. Downing Branch Library
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Saturday, February 14 @ 1 PM Barron F. Black Branch Library Saturday, February 21 @ 1 PM Park Place Branch Library
Special Events The Voices Of Norfolk Concert Choir
Saturday, February 7 @ 1 PM Janaf Branch Library Enjoy a rousing afternoon of hand-clapping, spiritfilled music! The Voices Of Norfolk Concert Choir was
founded in 1967 by Mr. Bernard Shell Sr. with alumni from Booker T. Washington High School, Norfolk State College (now University), and members of local churches. (Family)
Good Life Band
Saturday, February 7 @ 2 PM Blyden Branch Library Listen to a perfect blend of jazz, classic hits, and dance songs with the Good Life Band, led by Reginald Whitaker. (Family)
African-American Family Festival
Sunday, February 8 @ 2 PM Pretlow Anchor Branch Library Bring the family to a fun-filled afternoon of youth activities, a book sale, and musical performances by the bands Rhythmania and Caribbean Steel. (Family)
Norfolk State University Vocal Jazz Ensemble Sunday, February 8 @ 3 PM Slover Library Under the direction of Frank T. Elliot, this extraordinary show choir presents an alluring combination of song, dance and improvisation. (Family)
“Freedom on the Menu”
Hosted by the Quest Book Club
Monday, February 9 @ 5:30 PM Blyden Branch Library Join us for a Reader’s Theater adventure! Questers will travel to Greensboro, North Carolina, to experience one of the first sit-ins, which changed America. What did it feel like to sit at a counter and not be served? Ice cream will be served to all ... or maybe not. (School Age)
Doll Making 101
*Materials provided Wednesday, February 11 @ 4:30 PM Horace C. Downing Branch Library Slave children played with dolls made from scraps of cloth or whatever they could find. Dolls Like these were found in the Underground Railroad, and other hide out places for slaves. Create your own doll using simple materials. (School Age & Teens)
African-American Crafts
Thursday, February 12 @ 4:30 PM Pretlow Anchor Branch Library Hear the story “Shaka, King of the Zulus,” and learn how different tribes use masks and shields. (Family)
Just Us Gospel Band
Saturday, February 14 @ 1 PM Jordan-Newby Branch Library Led by Gary Sayes, the Just Us Gospel Band’s repertoire includes popular gospel tunes and traditional favorites. (Family)
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Creating a City of Readers
Special Events Osmosis Jazz Band
3rd Annual African-American 757 Author Event
Saturday, February 14 @ 1 PM Lafayette Branch Library Soak up the diverse jazz sounds of Osmosis. Leader, Jacques Jones, has been playing the bass for more than 30 years. (Family)
Hosted by Sistahs with Sass Book Club Saturday, February 21 @ 12 PM Little Creek Branch Library Support local African-American authors and come to our discussion panel. Find a new favorite author! (Adults)
Ju Ju & After Hours Band
Storytime: A Folktale from West Africa
Saturday, February 14 @ 1 PM Park Place Branch Library You are in for a musical treat! Founder and percussionist Gary Garlic has more than 20 years’ experience working with such acts as Stevie Wonder; Najee; Albertina Walker; James Brown; Earth, Wind & Fire; and Donna Summer! (Family)
Saturday, February 21 @ 1 PM Jordan-Newby Branch Library Listen to a folktale about a monkey that comes to the rescue of two greedy jungle cats who argue over a large piece of cheese. This story will make you think twice before seeking a monkey’s help! (Preschool)
Reader’s Theater - “Trapped in the Past”
Janaf Branch Library Saturday, February 14 @ 2 PM Let’s bring history alive! Participate in a Reader’s Theater reenactment with a focus on Black History Month. This event is also part of Norfolk Public Library’s TREK for Civility Initiative, which emphasizes tolerance, respect, empathy and kindness at every opportunity when interacting with others. (School Age)
The Elbert Watson Dance Company
“Transcendence and Triumph: Celebrating the Diversity of our Spirit and Culture” Saturday, February 14 @ 3 PM Slover Library Elbert Watson, a former principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, will showcase a variety of dance styles. This performance is inspired by world renowned pianist, Blind Tom, an autistic savant born into slavery. (Family)
Celebrate the first male and female African-Americans in space, Lieutenant Colonel Guion S. Bluford and Dr. Mae Jemison. Learn what it takes to be an astronaut, make your very own space helmet, and try some dehydrated space snacks! (Family)
Color Me Mine Pottery
Wednesday, February 25 @ 11 AM Barron F. Black Branch Library *Registration required
Thursday, February 19 @ 4 PM *Registration required and supplies provided Barron F. Black Branch Library Listen to an African fable and paint your own pottery with Color Me Mine Ceramic Studios! Be sure to register, seating is limited! (School Age & Teens) 4
Astronaut Storytime
Saturday, February 21 @ 1 PM Lafayette Branch Library
African-American Cinema Celebration Saturdays @ 1 PM (Feb. 14, 21 & 28) *Call for movie titles and ratings Horace C. Downing Branch Library Come and enjoy films written by or starring African-Americans! (Family)
www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org
Special Events Concert: I. Sherman Green Chorale
Sunday, February 22 @ 4 PM Slover Library This ensemble is recognized nationally for its interpretation of traditional Negro Spirituals and exemplary performances of choral music. (Family)
Praise Dance Festival
Saturday, February 21 @ 2 PM Blyden Branch Library Experience the joy of praise when local churches visit the Blyden Branch Library! (Family)
Freedom Quilts
Saturday, February 21 @ 2-3:30 PM Pretlow Anchor Branch Library African-American slaves had secret ways of communicating with each other and quilts were often used to lead the way to freedom. Come learn about these quilts and the great book titles we have in our collection about this topic. (Family)
WizKidz: Let’s Make Peanut Butter!
Monday, February 23 @ 5:30 PM Blyden Branch Library Learn all about the inventor, George Washington Carver, while you make your very own—you guessed it—peanut butter! (School Age)
Black History Month Youth Art Contest: Awards Ceremony
Saturday, February 28 @ 2 PM Slover Library Illustrate a scene from your favorite African-American book or poem, and enter to win great prizes! Entries will be accepted at all NPL locations December 1, 2014 to February 12, 2015. Call 441-2852 for more information. (Preschool thru Teens)
Dr. Patricia Saunders Nixon in Concert
Saturday, February 28 @ 2 PM Van Wyck Branch Library Witness a riveting performance by Dr. Patricia Saunders Nixon and her accompanist, Geraldine Boone. Nixon, an assistant professor of Voice at Norfolk State University, has been a music instructor for 36 years. She has sung with the Virginia Opera Guild and given numerous recitals throughout Hampton Roads. Geraldine Boone is a music professor at Norfolk State University and former director of the Chesapeake Civic Chorus and the Boys Choir of Hampton Roads.(Family)
14th Annual Gospel Concert
Saturday, February 28 @ 2:30 PM Blyden Branch Library Gather for an emboldening afternoon of music with some of Hampton Roads’ most cherished gospel groups, the Butts Family, the Gospel Chandeliers, and the Word Singers! (Family)
Did You Know?
23rd Annual Black History Month Quiz Bowl
Saturday, February 28 @ 10:30 AM Blyden Branch Library Compete in a Jeopardy!-style match and demonstrate your knowledge of African-American history. (Family)
Agricultural Chemist George Washington Carver actually discovered more than 300 uses for peanuts.
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Creating a City of Readers
Historical Timeline A Century of Black Life, History and Culture in Hampton Roads
This list of prominent African-American individuals, events, businesses and organizations in Hampton Roads serves only as a representative sample of the many who have made invaluable contributions to our community. There is a vast historic and cultural mix from which we are derived. The list is divided into these categories: business, historic places, fine arts, local government, legislative, law, sports, education, entertainment, civil rights, media, health and organizations.
Businesses
By the beginning of the twentieth century, a small African-American entrepreneurial class had developed in Hampton Roads. Many of their businesses were of the “mom and pop” variety. Since that time, a variety of larger enterprises have evolved, along with the continued growth of small businesses. 1885 1900 1905 1909 1910 1912 1919 1923 1937 1947 1951 1953 1952 1966 1974 1981
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Fisher Funeral Home was established by Samuel Fisher Jr. in Portsmouth. The Supreme Lodge Knights of Gideon, a black fraternal order, started the Lodge Journal and Guide. Norfolk Home Building and Loan Association (HBLA) was founded. Brown Savings & Bank in Norfolk was started. It became Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company in 1919. In 1922 Metropolitan merged with Tidewater Bank & Trust Company and retained its name. P.B. Young purchased the Lodge Journal and Guide and renamed it Norfolk Journal and Guide. John Howard Hale opened Hale Funeral Home. The Attucks Theatre was designed and built by 26-year-old architect, Harvey N. Johnson. Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home opened in Berkley. Peoples Funeral Home (now Riddick) was founded by Jacob L. Riddick and Walter H. Riddick in Norfolk. Dr. Joseph A. Webb, a pharmacist, opened Webb’s Pharmacy in 1947 in Berkley. Bonnie McEachin bought the Prince George Hotel and renamed it the Plaza Hotel. Fitchett Funeral Home opened in Norfolk. It is now located in Chesapeake. Lucille Jones Seals began working at Russell’s Grill on Church Street and purchased it in 1952. In 1985 she opened the Church Street Square Shopping Center. Metropolitan Funeral Home was established by David “Dave” Alexander and William Thomas Haskins. Bishop Levi Willis was founder and leader of the Garden of Prayer Church, an affiliate of the COGIC denomination He was the first African-American operator of a radio station in South Hampton Roads. His Willis Broadcasting Company by 1989 had 23 radio stations and was a multi-million dollar business. Systems Management American Corporation, a computer services company, began in Norfolk. Henry Valentine was its founder and owner. Curtis Cole founded Curtex Construction Corporation in Norfolk. Fulco Development, founded by William Fuller, broke ground for the Berkley Shopping Center. Michael J. Benton became owner, president and CEO of Stark & Legum Clothing Store in downtown Norfolk. Vernon M. Fareed, President of the Park Place Business Association and owner of Saleem Investment Group, LLC, has been a long term advocate for Park Place investment. He successfully lobbied the owner of Croaker’s Spot to open a restaurant in a development project in Park Place. Ulysses Turner is the owner of Atlantic Apartment Rental Development Corporation. Oscar Briley is Treasurer of the Park Place Business Association and has operated Brad’Con Hair Studio, a full- service hair and beauty salon for over 25 years. The United House of Prayer has operated a restaurant for several years. Charles Manuel ‘’Sweet Daddy’’ Grace, its founder, first came to Norfolk in 1926. By 1930 he had constructed a church on 17th Street.
www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org
Historical Timeline National Register of Historic Places “The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.” (www.nps.gov/nr/)
First Baptist Church, Bute Street Norfolk, VA (2013)
Newsome House, Newport News, VA (2012)
West Point Cemetery with statue modeled on Sgt. William Carney’s likeness (54th Mass Regiment) Norfolk, VA (2011)
1800 First Baptist Church started with a membership mix of whites and free and enslaved blacks. The whites left in 1816 and a splinter group left in 1839 and organized under several names, finally settling on Bank Street Baptist. Later First Baptist renamed itself First Baptist Church, Bute Street. 1863 St. John’s AME Church was the first African-American Episcopal church in Virginia. 1867 Mount Sinai Baptist Church was founded in Suffolk. The present historic structure was built in 1921. 1868 Hampton University was founded by General Samuel Chapman Armstrong to educate newly freed blacks. 1873 West Point Cemetery was established as an area adjacent to all white Elmwood Cemetery as a burying ground for African-Americans in Norfolk. 1884 Queen Street Baptist Church was started when several members of Bank Street Baptist Church left and began worshiping in a Masonic Lodge. 1880 First Calvary Baptist Church was established as a mission church of Bank Street Baptist Church. 1886 The Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception began as St. Mary Church of the Immaculate Conception where African-American members were segregated in the choir loft. In 1889, Josephites founded St. Joseph’s Catholic Church to serve the African-American community. St. Joseph’s was demolished in 1961 and merged with St. Mary. Pope John Paul II named it a minor basilica in 1991; the only one in Virginia. 1897 The James A. Fields House was owned by prominent Newport News attorney James A. Fields. It was a hub of civic and social activism. In 1908, the top floor was used to start the first hospital in the city to serve African- Americans. 1899 Newsome House Museum and Cultural Center started as the home of attorney and journalist Thomas Newsome. He was the first African-American attorney certified to argue cases before the Virginia Supreme Court. The house became a museum in 1991. 1908 Whittaker Memorial Hospital in Newport News was started by two African-American physicians. Prior to its founding, the only medical care available to African-Americans was a clinic housed in the city jail. It closed in 1985. 1918-1920 Truxton was built during World War I and was the first wartime government housing project constructed exclusively for blacks in the United States. 1924 Nansemond County Training School was the first public black high school in Nansemond County. The county is now Suffolk. 1934 Hampton Institute secured a federal grant to design Aberdeen Gardens in Hampton to improve housing for African-Americans in Newport News and Hampton. It opened in 1937.
Creating a City of Readers
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Historical Timeline Education
Education for African-Americans in Hampton Roads in 1915 is reflected in the system of segregated schools that existed then. Not until 1959 were the Norfolk schools desegregated by 17 African American students.
1906 1913 1919 1930 1939 1940 1959 1969
John T. West was the first public school in Norfolk for African-American children and the first in Virginia to hold high school classes for them. In May of 1914, it became the first accredited African-American public high school in Virginia. In 1917, its name was changed to Booker T. Washington High School. David Gilbert Jacox was its principal. High Street School was the first high school in Portsmouth for African-Americans. In 1953, it was renamed I. C. Norcom in honor of its first supervising principal, Israel Charles Norcom. Newport News reserved a room for high school students in the John Marshall Elementary School and named it Dunbar High School. In 1924 the high school students moved into the newly built Huntington High School. Princess Anne County Training School was the first high school for African-Americans in Princess Anne County, now Virginia Beach. In 1962, its name was changed to Union Kempsville High School. Aline Black, a Booker T. Washington High School teacher, sued the Norfolk school system for equal pay for all teachers. She lost the suit and was fired. Melvin O. Alston, also a Booker T. Washington teacher, filed another suit. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in their favor in 1940 and she was reinstated in 1941. Hampton Institute leased its George Phenix Training School to the City of Hampton, and it served as the public high school for black students. In 1962, the city opened Phenix High School. The “Norfolk Seventeen� became the first African-American students to desegregate Norfolk Public Schools. Norfolk State College, founded in 1935 as a branch of Virginia Union University, becomes an independent 4-year college and is granted university status in 1979.
Booker T. Washington High School The first accredited black high school in Virginia. Norfolk, VA (1969)
Ailene Black Israel Charles The first principal of Norcom High School. Date and location of photo unknown.
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A Booker T. Washington High School teacher who sued for equal pay. Norfolk, VA (1939)
Historical Timeline Entertainers
Hampton Roads has produced many outstanding performers who have had major impacts in the music industry. Several of them are Grammy, Tony and Emmy award winners and members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Artist like Gary U.S. Bonds and Gene Barge were instrumental in the development of the “Norfolk Sound.” This area was a pioneer in the early quartet movement. 1930s 1938 1949 1950 1950 1960 1960 1968 1971 1972 1975 1990 1996 1997 1999 2003 2012 2014
Beginning in a barbershop in Berkley in the early 1930s, the Golden Gate Quartet rose to international prominence. They were inducted into The Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1998. Singer Ella Fitzgerald was born in Newport News. She had her first million seller, “A-Tisket, A-Tasket” in 1938. She came to be known as the “The First Lady of Song.” She won 13 Grammy awards and sold over 40 million albums. Disc Jockey Jack Holmes began his radio career at WLOW as the first black disc jockey in Virginia. He moved to WRAP and became the most listened to DJ in his time slot in all of Hampton Roads. Ruth Brown was known as “Miss Rhythm.” She was born in Portsmouth. During the 1950s, she had several hits with Atlantic Records. In 1989, she won both a Tony and Grammy Award. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. Margie Day Walker came to national prominence, during the 1950s, when she was the lead singer for the Griffin Brothers Orchestra. She reached the Top Ten twice with “Street-Walkin’ Daddy” and the Willie Dixon composition “Little Red Rooster.” Her music is still being sold worldwide on the Web. “New Orleans” was the first hit for Gary U.S. Bonds of Norfolk. He followed it up with “Quarter to Three” and “School is Out.” Norfolk native Gene Barge, (Daddy G) wrote “Quarter to Three”, the number one hit for Gary U.S. Bonds. He won a Grammy as co-producer of Natalie Cole’s hit single “Sophisticated Lady” in 1976. Singer and actress Pearl Bailey grew up in Portsmouth. The all black production of “Hello Dolly” earned her a Tony Award in 1968. Norfolk native General Norman Johnson had his first hit with The Showmen, “It Will Stand.” It made the national charts twice in 1961 and 1964. He was lead singer on the Chairmen of the Board’s national hit, “Give Me a Little More Time.” His songwriting hits include: “Patches” (Grammy Award 1971); “Want Ads” (Honey Cone); “Bring the Boys Home” (Freda Payne); “It Will Stand” (Showman); “Give Me Just A Little More Time” (Chairmen of the Board). Saxophonist and actor Clarence Clemons started with Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band in 1972 and remained a member until his death in 2011. He was born in Norfolk. Connie Parker, vocalist and pianist made her debut as a jazz performer. She has opened for such greats as the late Count Basie, Lou Rawls, Roy Ayers, Roberta Flack, Pieces of a Dream and others. Suffolk native, actor James Avery, was Will Smith’s uncle in the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” sitcom. Timbaland (Timothy Zachery Mosley) the rapper, record producer, and songwriter began and has continued his work with Missy Elliott, Jay-Z, Nas, Ludacris, Madonna, Rihanna and Drake. He was born in Norfolk. Rapper “Missy” Elliott’s (Melissa Arnette) 1997 debut album, “Supa Dupa Fly,” went platinum. She is a five time Grammy Award winner and was born in Portsmouth. Portsmouth Comedian Wanda Sykes is also an actress, writer, and voice over artist. She has earned two Emmys, one of which was in 1999 for her writing on The Chris Rock Show. Pharrell Williams is a singer-songwriter, rapper, record producer, musician, and fashion designer. He has won seven Grammy Awards. He was born in Virginia Beach. The Paschall Brothers have kept alive the Tidewater style of the acappella gospel singing quartets. They were honored by the National Endowment for the Arts with a National Heritage Fellowship in 2012. Actor Frankie Faison continues to garner challenging TV and movie roles, as he did with “The Wire” and his recurring role as Barney in all three of the “Silence of the Lambs” films. He was born in Newport News. 9
Creating a City of Readers
Historical Timeline Law
In 1923 local African-American attorneys formed the Tidewater Bar Association. It was later renamed the Twin City Bar Association. Part of its goal was to address the issues of segregation and discrimination, both locally and statewide.
Elaine Jones
The first African-American female to graduate from the University of Virginia Law School, and the first woman to head the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. University of Virginia Conference photo, Charlottesville, VA (2000)
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1963 William T. Mason, Jr. was appointed as the first African-American Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. 1967 Elaine Jones of Norfolk became the first African-American female to enroll and graduate from the University of Virginia Law School. 1968 William P. Robinson Jr. was hired as the first black Assistant Commonwealth Attorney in Norfolk. 1970 William P. Robinson Jr. was the first black Assistant Attorney General hired in the Virginia Attorney General’s office. 1972 Two years out of law school, Elaine Jones was the counsel of record in Furman v. Georgia, the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that abolished the death penalty in 37 states for 12 years. 1976 Lester V. Moore Jr. was the first black judge in Norfolk. He was appointed to the Juvenile and Domestic District Court. 1977 Joseph L. Jordan was appointed to the General District Court of Norfolk 1978 Robert C. “Bobby” Scott grew up in Newport News. He served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1978-1983, and the Virginia Senate from 1984-1992. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1992. 1983 Charles Thomas was appointed as the first African-American justice to the Supreme Court of Virginia. 1985 James Benton was appointed to the Court of Appeals of Virginia when it was created in 1985. He was born in Norfolk. 1989 Norfolk native Leroy Rountree Hassel, at the age of 34, became the second African-American appointed to the Supreme Court of Virginia. 1990 Gwendolyn Jones Jackson, who served 24 years on the bench, was the first African-American woman judge in Hampton Roads. 1993 Elaine Jones became the first woman to head the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the nation’s oldest law firm fighting for equal rights and justice for people of color, women, and the poor. 1993 Raymond A. Jackson was the second African-American judge appointed to the U.S. District Court in the Eastern District of Virginia. 1993-1997 Attorney Hazel R. O’Leary, a Newport News native, served as Secretary of Energy in President Bill Clinton’s Cabinet. 1999 Rufus Banks was appointed to the Chesapeake Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court. He served as Chief Judge of the Court from 2002 to 2008 and most recently from 2010 to 2012. 2003 Leroy Roundtree Hassel became the first African-American Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia and the first Chief Justice to be selected by the other justices. 2008 S. Bernard Goodwyn, a native of Southampton County, was appointed as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia. 2008 Jerrauld L. Jones was appointed as a Norfolk Circuit Court Judge. 2011 Arenda Wright became the first African-American female federal district judge in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She serves on the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Virginia in Norfolk. 2014 Johnny E. Morrison is the Chief Judge of Portsmouth Circuit Court. Credit for this compilation:http://www.shrba.org/uploads/History_of_SHRBA.pdf
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Historical Timeline Legislative
There have been several Hampton Roads legislators who have made great contributions to the legislative process in Virginia and in Washington. Many have been firsts in their areas. 1970 1982 1984 1986 1988 1992 2004 2012 2012
William P. Robinson Sr. from Norfolk was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. William P. Robinson Jr. was elected to the House of Delegates and served until 2002. Yvonne Miller began her legislative career in the Virginia House of Delegates. In 1988, she was elected to the Virginia Senate. She was the first African-American female to serve in the House and Senate, with the longest tenure in both, and the first woman to chair a standing committee in the Senate. Kenneth R. Melvin of Portsmouth began his tenure in the Virginia House of Delegates. He is now a Presiding Judge on the Portsmouth Circuit Court. Jerrauld C. Jones began his term in the Virginia House of Delegates. Louise Lucas, a Portsmouth native, began her Senate career. Mamie Locke was appointed Dean, School of Liberal Arts, and Professor of Political Science at Hampton University. She was elected to the Virginia Senate in 2004. Daun Hester, a Norfolk native, was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. Kenneth Cooper Alexander, President of Metropolitan Funeral Service, was elected to replace Senator Yvonne Miller. Daun Hester Norfolk, VA (2012)
Mamie Locke Newport News, VA (2013)
Robert “Bobby� Scott Washington D.C. (2014)
Louise Lucas Richmond, VA (2014)
Yvonne Miller, Norfolk, VA (2011)
Kenneth Alexander Norfolk, VA (2014)
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Historical Timeline
Local Government Hampton Roads
Local government achievements include the first African-American police woman in Norfolk, the first African-American woman to head the National League of Cities, and the successful restoration of the ward system to Norfolk. James Holley Portsmouth, VA (2014)
William Ward Chesapeake, VA (2014)
Paul Riddick Norfolk, VA (2014)
1921 1945 1950 1968 1968 1970 1977 1978 1983 1992 1996 1999 2013 12
Portsmouth Colored Community LIbrary and Museum Portsmouth, VA (2014)
Blyden Branch Library, the first public library in Virginia to serve African-Americans, opened in one room in Booker T. Washington High School. Horace Carlyle Case and Thomas Davis Weaver are sworn onto the Norfolk Police force. They are the first black policemen in Virginia.” (www.books.google.com/books? Norfolk Police Department: Into our Third Century of Service) Virginia Randolph became Norfolk’s first African-American woman police officer. Joseph L. Jordan Jr. was elected to the Norfolk City Council in 1968, becoming the first African-American council member since 1890. Five time mayor and Portsmouth native James Holley was the first black elected to the Portsmouth City Council. Jessie M. Rattley was the first African-American elected to the Newport News City Council, the first woman mayor of the city and the first African-American to head the National League of Cities. Father Joseph Green began service on Norfolk City Council. He was pastor of Grace Episcopal Church and instrumental in restoration of the Attucks Theatre and the establishment of Tidewater Community College. William E. Ward was elected to Chesapeake City Council. In 1990 he became the city’s first African-American mayor. Between 1973 and 2000 he was a professor at Norfolk State University. Herbert Collins played a pivotal role in the successful lawsuit filed against Norfolk to require the city to adopt a ward system. He was elected to the council in 1994 and later served as vice mayor. Paul R. Riddick was first elected to Norfolk City Council and began service as vice mayor in 2006. Daun S. Hester was elected to the Norfolk City Council in 1996. She was vice mayor from 2004-2006. Regina Williams becomes the first African-American and first woman to serve as Norfolk City Manager. Mae Breckenridge-Haywood spearheaded the effort to re-open Portsmouth Colored Community Library as the Portsmouth African-American Museum in 2013.
www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org
Historical Timeline Fine Arts
The Hampton Roads area has produced several individuals known both locally and nationally.
1864-1933 Sissieretta Jones (Matilda Sissieretta Joyner), who was born in Portsmouth, gained international fame as an opera singer, long before Marian Anderson was born. She sang at the White House on several occasions. 1964 Opera singer Dorothy Maynor never performed on an opera stage. At the peak of her career, she performed with most of the major American orchestras and was highly paid and sought after. She was the first African American to sing for the inauguration of an American president, Dwight D. Eisenhower, on January 20, 1953, singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” In 1964, she founded the Harlem School of Arts for children. 1972 The I. Sherman Greene Chorale was founded with students from Booker T. Washington High School. 2011 Persia Jennings holds an honored place among a group of 1940s era Hampton University art students, who gained a national reputation. Jennings most recently exhibited at the Selden Gallery in 2011: “The Art of Prominent African-American Artists,” curated by Maizelle. 2014 Individuals listed under this date are recognized for a body of work that was accomplished
and acclaimed in Hampton Roads, and are known nationally.
Norfolk native Elbert Watson is a dancer, choreographer and teacher. He was a former principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre. Abstract painter Ken Wright has works in collections all over the world. One work, “September 11”, hung in the White House during the presidency of George W. Bush. It is now in the Bush Presidential Library. Maizelle, a renown artist/visual storyteller, celebrates the rich history of African-Americans in her beloved hometown, Norfolk. She is well known for her historical Church Street series, especially, “Night at the Attucks Theatre.” She is the former owner of two galleries. Dancer Lorraine Elizabeth Graves was born in Norfolk. She is best known for her work with the Dance Theatre of Harlem as a principal dancer and a ballet mistress. Actor Tim Reid is a graduate of Norfolk State University. His entertainment career has lasted over 30 years. Geraldine Boone is a professor in the music department at Norfolk State University. She was formerly director of the Chesapeake Civic Chorus and the Boys Choir of Hampton Roads. She is a much sough-after accompanist. Terrance Afer-Andersonn has been an actor and playwright for several decades in Norfolk. Sherri Bailey is a playwright who has written and produced several plays and operated her own theatre companies. She has organized Juneteenth celebrations for many years. She has been a stalwart in keeping alive the production of theatrical projects relating to African-American history and culture. She has produced Juneteenth celebrations, wrote and produced several plays and operated her own theatre companies. Joyce White-Tasby has operated the Young People’s Guild School of Performing Arts for over 20 years. 13
Creating a City of Readers
Historical Timeline Civil Rights
There were several pivotal events and committed individuals who left indelible imprints in the fight for civil rights in Hampton Roads and nationally. The end of the Poll Tax, segregated interstate bus travel, school segregations, and unequal pay for teachers were all litigated here. 1944 Eleven years before Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus, Irene Morgan had done the same and was arrested and convicted in Middlesex County. Her appeal reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which issued a landmark decision barring segregated buses on interstate travel. 1957 In 1957, Ella Baker she played a major role in organizing the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and became its executive director. She was instrumental in setting up the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in 1960. She was born in Norfolk. 1963 Norfolk native Evelyn T. Butts, an unemployed seamstress, filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Virginia’s $1.50 poll tax, a fee required of voters. She lost her case twice, but on the appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, it eliminated the tax in 1966. A Norfolk street was named in her honor. 2014 E. Curtis Alexander, is President of Bells Mill Historical Research and Restoration Society.
Irene Morgan Won suit to stop segregation on interstate bus travel. Photo date and location unknown
Ella Baker Helped organize the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
Evelyn T. Butts Won suit to eliminate poll tax.
Courtesy of New Journal and Guide, Norfolk, VA (2014)
Photo date and location unknown
Health
As in other cities throughout the South, African-Americans had to establish their own health networks. Norfolk Community Hospital and Whittaker Memorial Hospital in Newport News played crucial roles in the health and well-being of African-American citizens on both sides of the Chesapeake Bay. 1939 2014 14
Norfolk Community Hospital officially opened in its own facility for African-Americans. Even with PWA funding, organizations and individuals still subsidized it. Dr. L.D. Britt is a Suffolk native and attended Booker T. Washington High School. He is the Brickhouse Professor and Chairman, Department of Surgery at Easter Virginia Medical School (EVMS). Dr. Britt is the first African- American in the country to have an endowed chair in surgery.
www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org
Historical Timeline Media The media, starting with the founding of the Norfolk Journal and Guide by P.B. Young in 1910, has played a vital role in providing information to keep the community informed. Local disc jockeys not only played music, but served as political, religious and social gatekeepers. 1949 Disc Jockey Jack Holmes began his radio career at WLOW as the first black disc jockey in Virginia. He moved to WRAP and became the most listened to DJ in his time slot in all of Hampton Roads. Leola Dyson, who was a director of public relations and an on air contributor, worked with him at WRAP for over 20 years. 1960s-2014 Some popular disc jockeys: Frankie “Soul Ranger” Stewart, Maurice Ward, H.J. Ellison, William “Bill” Boykins, Chester Benton, Calvin “Shakespeare” Perkins, Doc Christian, Lonnie Perry, Robert “Bobby Jay” Jackson, J.J. Carmichael, Donald E. Eason, and Jay Lang. 1971-1978 Immediately after finishing Norfolk Catholic High School, Glen Mason was hired by the Norfolk Ledger-Star as a reporter. He was their first African-American sports reporter. He was an active supporter and volunteer for Afr’Am Fest. 1987 Brenda Andrews became owner and publisher of the Journal and Guide and later renamed it The New Journal and Guide. 2014 Regina Mobley, Barbara Hamm-Lee, Barbara Ciara, Nicole Livas, LaSalle Blanks, Lisa Godley, Kurt Williams, Brian Wilson and Don Roberts have been long term television personalities. Alveta Ewell retired from WAVY-TV in 2013 after 24 years as a news anchor. Leonard Colvin of the New Norfolk Journal and Guide and Marvin Leon Lake, formerly of the Virginian-Pilot, are two well-known journalists who have covered many stories of importance to the African-American community.
Brenda Andrews Owner and Publisher of the New Journal and Guide. Norfolk, VA (2010)
Jack “Daddy” Holmes Virginia’s first black disc jockey. Norfolk, VA (circa 1950s)
Creating a City of Readers
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Historical Timeline Organizations & Events
Hampton Roads has been in the forefront of the establishment and nurturing of organizations, agencies and events that have impacted the lives of citizens both locally and nationally. 1886 1897
The Hampton University Museum was started in1868. It is the nation’s oldest African-American museum and administers a collection of 9,000 artifacts and fine art pieces. The Eureka Lodge opened as the first African-American Elks Lodge in America. During the 1920s, it had over 1000 members involved in its mission to “promote social discourse among its members, its fraternal and beneficial and for a fixed sum for joining and the payment of monthly dues, the Lodge aids the sick and buries it dead.”
1912 1968 1983 1991
The United Order of Tents is a Christian Fraternal Benevolent Organization founded in Norfolk in 1867 by two former slave women. It was granted a charter amendment in 1912 to officially call itself the United Order of Tents. The Hampton Jazz Festival began on the campus of Hampton University. In 1970 the City of Hampton and Hampton University formed a partnership to operate the festival and hold it at the Hampton Coliseum. The Southeastern Virginia Arts Association was established to support and promote African-American art and culture in Hampton Roads. Its largest project, Afr’Am Fest, annually attracted over 200,000 to Town Point Park. The City of Portsmouth started the Umoja Festival to celebrate cultural diversity and unity in the city.
Credit: www.racetimeplace.com/497Projects/BoysintheHood/darrell/Eureka.htm
Sports
Hampton Roads has produced countless African-American athletes who have reached the pinnacle of their professions: Olympic Gold Medalists, Hall of Famers, Most Valuable Players, and Super Bowl champions. 1970 1973 1976 1981 1984 1986 1996 2000 2001 2001 2004 2006 2008 2009 2009 2009 2012 2014 16
Bobby Dandridge was voted to the NBA All-Rookie Team. He won NBA Champion Rings with the Milwaukee Bucks and Washington Bullets. Basketball coach Charles Christian started at Norfolk State University and went on to win over 300 games, seven CIAA Tournament championships, and four CIAA men’s basketball coach of the year awards. Steve Riddick of Norfolk State won a gold medal in the 4x 100m relay at the 1976 Olympics. Lawrence Taylor started with the New York Giants. He won two Super Bowl rings, and entered the NFL Hall of Fame in 1999. Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker of Norfolk won an Olympic Gold Medal. William Fuller started his NFL career with the Houston Oilers. Allen Iverson won the Rookie of the Year award with the Philadelphia 76ers, the Most Valuable Player award for 2000-2001, and four scoring titles. LaTasha Colander of Portsmouth won a gold medal in the 4 x 400m relay. Michael Vick, a Newport News native, was the first of all players selected in the National Football League draft, and by default, the first black quarterback ever taken in that position. Dick Price was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. At Norfolk State University, he was athletic director and coach of the football and track teams. Marty Miller was appointed athletic director. Prior to that, he won over 700 games as the school’s baseball coach. Alonzo Mourning was a member of the Miami Heat NBA championship team. He was born in Chesapeake. LaShawn Merrittt won an Olympic Gold Medal in the 400m and the 4x 400m relay. Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers became the second African-American coach to win the Super Bowl. He is from Newport News. Percy Harvin won a Super bowl Ring in 2014 with the Seattle Seahawks, Pro-Bowl selection. He grew up in the Berkley section of Norfolk. Bruce Smith was inducted into the NFL Hall-of-Fame. Gabrielle Douglas of Virginia Beach won gold medals in gymnastics, team and individual. Marcellus Spencer “Boo” Williams Jr. operates a nationally known AAU summer youth basketball program from which many players have gone into the college, Olympic, and professional ranks. In 2008 he opened a state-of- the-art community sports facility in Hampton.
www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org
ART exhibit African-American Artists of Hampton Roads
Saturday • February 7 10 AM - 4 PM
@ Slover Library View paintings, sculptures, quilts and photographs by some of Hampton Roads’ finest artists: Loretta Craig, Robert Floyd, Michael Graves, Clara Huff, Solomon Isekeije, Larry Johnson, Linda Kelley, Ernest Lowery, Gerome Meminger Sr., Maizelle, Linwood Pettaway, Michael Raphael, Earl Shelton, Clayton Singleton, and Ken Wright.
(Family) Schedule of Events:
10 AM - 3 PM - Exhibit opens 11 AM - Artist Talk: Quilter, Loretta Craig 2 PM - Lecture: Artist, Solomon Isekeije 3 PM - Reception This event is free and open to the public!
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Slover Library 235 E. Plume Street Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 664-7323 Barron F. Black Branch Library 6700 East Tanners Creek Drive Norfolk, VA 23513 (757) 441-5806 Blyden Branch Library 879 E. Princess Anne Road Norfolk, VA 23504 (757) 441-2852 Horace C. Downing Branch Library 555 E. Liberty Street Norfolk, VA 23523 (757) 441-1968 Janaf Branch Library 124 Janaf Shopping Center Norfolk, VA 23502 (757) 441-5660 Jordan-Newby Branch Library 961 Park Avenue Norfolk, VA 23504 (757) 441-2843 Lafayette Branch Library 1610 Cromwell Drive Norfolk, VA 23509 (757) 441-2842 Larchmont Branch Library 6525 Hampton Boulevard Norfolk, VA 23508 (757) 441-5335 Little Creek Branch Library 7853 Tarpon Place Norfolk, VA 23518 (757) 441-1751
“Images of Africa” Sculptor Robert Floyd Photographer Diana Chappel-Lewis
Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library 111 W. Ocean View Avenue Norfolk, VA 23503 (757) 441-1750 Park Place Branch Library 620 W. 29th Street Norfolk, VA 23508 (757) 664-7330 Van Wyck Branch Library 1368 DeBree Avenue Norfolk, VA 23517 (757) 441-2844 NPL Bookmobile: (757) 858-2044 Library Information: (757) 664-READ (7323)