Virginia Changemakers
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James Heyward Blackwell (Circa 1864 - 1931)

James Heyward Blackwell.jpg

Locality

Richmond

Occupation

Educator and Community Advocate

Biography

Born, probably enslaved, in Marion, Virginia, James Heyward Blackwell (ca. February 1864–October 14, 1931) grew up in Manchester, across the James River from Richmond. Although his parents could not read or write, they encouraged him to obtain an education. After being tutored by the local pastor of the First Baptist Church, Blackwell graduated in 1880 from Richmond Theological Institute (now Virginia Union University). He taught in New Kent County for two years before returning to Manchester when its segregated public schools began hiring African American teachers. In 1888 he became principal and initiated a high school curriculum.

After the consolidation of Manchester and Richmond in 1910, his school was named the Maury School. Richmond law forbade Blackwell from being principal, so he returned to teaching. He remained the de facto chief administrator of the Maury School until 1916, when a white principal was hired for the renamed Dunbar School. Blackwell retired in 1922, after more than forty years in public education. Throughout his career he was also a leader in fraternal orders and Baptist Sunday school organizations. Devoted to expanding opportunities in the African American community, Blackwell helped establish a building and loan association, an insurance company, and real estate businesses. He also managed two employment agencies, including one for African American teachers.

In 1951 the Dunbar School became a combined elementary and junior high school, and the following year the Richmond School Board renamed it the James H. Blackwell School. An elementary school alone since 1970, it has given its name to the surrounding neighborhood.

Nominated by Barbara Sookins-Goode, James H. Blackwell Elementary School, Richmond.


2014 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion.

File Citation(s)

Image Courtesy of the Library of Virginia.

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