Browse Items (373 total)

Pulitzer Prize–winning author Willa Cather was acclaimed for her novels portraying the settlers and frontier life of the American Plains.

Frederick County

A free African American before the Civil War, William Breedlove won election in 1867 to a convention called to rewrite Virginia's state constitution.

Essex

A leader in the political, cultural, and civic life of Alexandria, William Darnell “Bill” Euille became the first African American elected mayor of the city.

Alexandria

After a decorated career as a military and commercial pilot, William E. Bailey continues to work for increased diversity in the aviation profession and to expand educational opportunities for African Americans.

Accomack County

For his bravery during battle in the American Civil War, Sergeant William H. Carney was the first African American to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

Norfolk

A revered civic leader and successful businessman, William T. Stone was the first African-American judge in Williamsburg.

Williamsburg

Willie Lanier broke through racial barriers in professional football by becoming the first African American to play middle linebacker, the position that directs the defense on the field.

Richmond

Inspired by her service in the Marine Corps, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears became the first Black woman to hold state office in Virginia.

Winchester

A nationally celebrated Baptist minister, Wyatt Tee Walker was a pioneer in the Civil Rights movement.

Petersburg

A native of Laos,Xang Mimi Howorks, teaches, and travels internationally as a professional photographer.

Northern Virginia