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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCollege Station Black History 1 African American National Heritage Society 804 Waco, Bryan, TX 77803 ------------ College Station Notes by Bill Page 17 December 2008 Historically, there were at least three housing areas for African Americans in College Station. The first was on the campus proper. From the beginning through the 1940s, many African Americans lived on the Texas A&M campus, sometimes in servants‟ quarters for white families and sometimes in campus housing such as employee dormitories. A second area where African Americans lived was commonly referred to as being “below College” – that is, to the south of the campus. There was a fairly extensive settlement to the south of campus, including among other things Washington Chapel (on Business Highway 6 in College Station) and the African American cemetery that is now part of the College Station city cemeter y. Another early African American church was St. Matthews Baptist Church. Lincoln School was also built on the southside of campus. A number of African Americans also lived on the north side of campus, between the college and Bryan. In addition, many of the African Americans who worked on campus lived in Bryan and commuted to College Station each day. It is possible but not proven that some of the African American residents living in the area that became College Station may have resided there for some time, as both the Carson family and the Rector family owned slaves. If so, those families could justly lay claim to being some of College Station‟s founding families. This area merits further research. Listing who worked at A&M is more complicated than it might seem. In addition to people employed by the college, as mentioned above, many of the white faculty and staff hired African Americans to work for them personally. In addition, other Blacks worked for agencies affiliated with the college, such as the extension service. Still other people worked as contract laborers, performing labor such as helping construct buildings, on an intermittent basis. "Richard CARTER v. the State," 20 Texas Reports 339 (1857). Involved conviction of slave owner for allowing his slave to carry gun off of his property. Bryan, May 24 – Near the Agricultural and Mechanical College, this morning, a Negro named Austin Gandy was shot and killed by another Negro named Stewart. Gandy made the first shot the ball going through Stewart‟s shirt, but not hurting him. Stewart is now in jail. Galveston Daily News, 25 May 1878 On 8 June 1885, Brazos County commissioners appointed Adam Royder, A.J. Tabor, and A.D. White as managers of an election to be held at “Rectors Chappell” to elect three white and three “colored” school trustrees for school district number 6. (Brazos County 2 Commissioners Minutes, Book C, page 454). Bryan, Tex. – Last night at about 2 o‟clock Gus Julian, a Negro brickmason at work upon the new barracks at College, shot himself accidentally while removing a pistol from his pocket, the ball passing through his lower bowels and coming out near his spine. He died shortly afterward and was removed to Houston for burial by the colored Odd Fellows, of which order he was a member. Galveston Daily News, 21 October 1891, p.3, col.4 Bryan … Last night at about 2 o‟clock Gus Julian a Negro brickmason at work upon the new barracks at the college, shot himself accidentally while removing a pistol from his pocket. The ball passed through his lower bowels and came out near his spine. He died shortly afterward and was removed to Houston for burial by the colored Odd Fellows, of which order he was a member. Dallas Morning News, 21 October 1891, p.5 College Station, Texas, February 20 – I feel authorized, in behalf of my people - the colored people of the Brazos Valley – to ask that preachers come to this section and labor in the cause of the Savior. The young men are going astray and the labor put here will do an amount of good which can hardly be calculated. A column could be written, but it is hoped the request for help is all that is needed. Yours truly, R.R. Foster. Houston Post, 24 February 1892, p.2, col.4 Washington Chapel was organized on the fourth Sunday in December, 1894, in the old Foster schoolhouse by Rev. L.K. Williams and Rev. R.H. Littleton (See: Brundidge, Glenna Fourman, editor, Brazos County History Rich Past -- Bright Future, 1986, p.137). A Negro employed at College came into town at breakneck speed one night last week and reported that three men attempted to hold him up at the bridge on the college road. Reports of this kind have been frequent of late and some persons have become quite nervous about that part of the road. We trust, however, there is little foundation for this fear. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 13 June 1895, p.3, col.3 "An episode of commencement not chronicled in our last issue was a capture of a keg of beer and two Negroes on the way to College on the night of the ball by Sheriff Nunn ...," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 20 June 1895, p.3, col.3. Charlie Cook, a colored cook at the mess hall at College, was found dead there yesterday morning. He showed no marks of violence and evidently died from heat. Justice Charles Gainer was summoned and held an inquest. The Negro was apparently all right and performed his duties as usual the day previous to his death. Bryan Daily Eagle, 21 August 1896, p.4, col.2 Mrs. Boretzky, a Bohemian woman, residing below College, was in town Saturday and reported that three children of George Williams, a Negro, were burned in a tenant house on her place Friday. Williams was not at home and his wife left the children at home and went over to the house of Mrs. Boretzky to get some milk. Before she could return the 3 house took fire and burned down and all three of the children were burned. The oldest was only five years of age. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 21 April 1898, p.3, col.3 Bryan, Tex., July 16 – Dick Umphreys, an aged Negro living near College, dropped dead in his yard this morning. He was 62 years old and had lived in this county forty years. His wife told The News reporter she thought he died from sunstroke. He was as well as usual this morning and was at work in the field until about 11 o‟clock. Dallas Morning News, 17 July 1898, p.24 An old Negro named Dick Umphreys, who has lived in this country 40 years, fell dead at his home near College yesterday. He was probably sixty-five years old. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 21 July 1898, p.6, col.2 Bryan, Texas – In a difficulty last night between Milt Jackson and Dallas Brown, both colored, near the Agricultural and Mechanical College, Jackson was dangerously wounded with a shotgun. Brown claimed self-defense and came in this morning and surrendered to the officers. Houston Daily Post, 19 December 1898, p.3, col.4 A Negro named Milton Jackson was shot and dangerously wounded near College Station, the weapon used being a shot gun. Dallas Brown, another Negro, came in Sunday morning and surrendered to the authorities, claiming self defense. He waived examination and gave a small bond. Bryan Daily Eagle, 20 December 1898, p.3, col.4. ca. 1899 onward – Byrns, Robert Eugene, Lafayette Lumpkin Foster: A Biography, masters thesis, Texas A&M, 1964. On pp.174 and in the pages following, Byrns gives some details concerning Fosters' daughters and their lives on campus. For example, on page 186: "The campus home in College Station required all of the managerial ability of both Edna [Foster] and her mother [Mrs. L.L. Foster] to function properly. Negro servants did the housework, but Mrs. Foster did most of the cooking over a woodburning kitchen range not only for her family, but for visiting dignitaries and the daughters of friends who arrived as weekend guests to attend the social functions of the Cadet Corps ... On gala occasions it was not unusual for the Governor of the State to spend several days on campus ..." News was received here yesterday morning that a Negro was killed by lightning below College Monday afternoon. The Negro and a white man were near a stove which was struck by lightning, the Negro being killed and the white man badly shocked. Another Negro was rendered insensible on Jim Dunn‟s place from a stroke of lightning. He subsequently recovered. Bryan Morning Eagle, 11 July 1900, p.3 Just below College yesterday at noon the north bound passenger train struck an old Negro named Elder Anderson, and he sustained injuries about the back and head of a painful but not fatal character. He was brought here and received medical attention after which he was sent to Houston. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 13 September 1900, p.2, col.3 Bryan – Sunday night Messrs. Sam Meredith and B.J. Hayood were in pursuit of two 4 Negroes charged with the theft of property from a plantation in the Brazos bottom. Upon coming upon the Negroes and calling to them to stop it is alleged that one of them shot Mr. Meredith, who received a slight flesh wound in the shoulder. Thereupon a general shooting affray ensued in the dark, the results of which were not fully known that night nor for two days following. Yesterday the body of Will Favers, one of the Negroes evidently wounded in the affray, was found near the scene of the fight, which occurred near College Station. Today Meredith and Haygood had an examining trial before Justice Mitchell and gave bond. The other Negro evidently made good his escape. Dallas Morning News, 15 February 1901, p.2 “Walks,” (Texas A&M) Long Horn, 1903, pp.131-133. “… This is a monotonous rolling prairie country, with post-oak barrens to vary it … The Campus itself is as pretty a bit of „flower prairie‟ as you will find anywhere about. We all know how gorgeous it is from February until June or later, with its carpet of chaning colors – red, yellow, white, violet, and rose. Nowhere will you find more plentiful or in richer color, anemones, buttercups, gromwells, “Indian blankets,” and primroses. But you must go to the woods for violets and saxifrage, and to sandy woods and fields for „blue bonnets,‟ and to the „bottoms‟ for ferns and cardinal flowers … The walk down the other railroad is more varied, because it cuts newly across fields and woods, and is filled in with gravel brought from the bottom, full of pebbles, fossil shells, and seeds of weeds that do not naturally grow here – prickly poppies and verenas and a host of spreading, lace-like things that make beautiful pattersn on the bare clay. Turning off from the railroad just this side of the first trestle, you find a footpath through the woods, skirting the College pasture for about a mile; and here are wild violets and lichens and fungi in quantities. The path goes to the head of the ravine called White‟s Creek, and on, past several Negro cabins, to the Fish-Tank. This is a fairly large pond, by comparison with the ordinary pasture tanks about here. It is kept up by a club of sportsmen in Bryan, who usually have a boat or two on it. It is a good swimming pool, for the water is not dangerously deep, though very cold below the surface. The bottom is a stiff white clay. Reeds at one end and youquapin liies, with their large bowl-shaped leaves, give is some picturesqueness. There are trees enough for shade in case we care to picnic here, and the tank water is cool and fresh, for it is fed by springs. In the woods below the Tank White‟s Creek runs into deep canyons, wild enough, especially at night, on a coon hunt when you may seen them by the light of a tall moss-covered tree, aflame to its tip … Should you leave the campus by either of the side gates opening onto the Long-Lane-That-Has-No-Turning, north of the College grounds you will find that a short walk across one of the fields behind the butcher‟s cottage, will bring you to a very pretty bit of woods, with large oaks and elms, mossy banks of a small stream, tangles of vines, and open glades. Here is the place for wood-violets – two kinds of them. Follow the little stream and you will come out on the Sulphur Springs road, which bounds College property on the east. From this road there leads off to Carter‟s Creek several lanes. We follow them between fields and through post-oak woods for a good two miles to reach at last the prettiest woods we shall find about here – tall cottonwoods, elms and oaks, moss-hung and vine-clad; a tangle of stretch-briar and deer- vine, casino and youpon and holly, making walking rather hard; but we don‟t mind, for these woods are worth exploring. The professor of botany will tell you that he finds their flora quite different from that of the Brazos Valley, and far more interesting. Here, in 5 midsummer, the cardinal flower blooms; here are ferns and mosses, and sassafras. You may follow the creek for miles, coming at last on Boyle‟s Lake, an old fishing ground. If, again, you leave the campus by the south-side gate, from the Professor‟s pasture, you find yourself in Vannay‟s Lane. Crossing that, where the big pecan tree stands, carved all over its trunk with cadets‟ names, some of them of ten or fifteen years back, you walk through a pasture and emerge on another lane, on the other side of which stands the Bohemian Dance Hall. This walk is a favorite one, on Saturday nights after taps. But „that‟s another story‟.” 1904+ – Porterfield, Nolan, Last Cavalier: The Life and Times of John A. Lomax 1867- 1948 (Chicago: University of Illinois Press, 1996). In talking about the Lomax's life on campus, ca. 1904 ?, the book states (p.102): "Far more troublesome was the servant problem. John quickly learned he would have little luck locating help until the cotton- picking season ended. Shortly he reported to Bess that 'a chocolate colored female has been hovering about,' wanting work as a cook, but her terms included board for her, her husband, and their three-year-old child. Thrifty Bess concluded that they would be too expensive for the little help they needed. In time, they were able to hire another black woman, Mary Evans, who would serve them ably through most of their time at A&M, patiently accepting layoffs during summers when they were away and returning whenever needed to clean, cook for John in Bess's absences, and otherwise attend to the small household." On p. 102 – you have to wonder how many animals the Lomax's had ... [His wife left campus to visit her sick parents.] "By this time Mary had come to cook, and most of Lomax's spare hours were occupied with seeing after their thriving menageries of barnyard stock. Bess worried that they had too many animals and would soon be spending all their time attending to them." [Not exactly a concern I would have expected from a campus wife.] And, pp.103-104: "The spring of 1905 brought the newlyweds their first sustained period of domesticity ... In many ways the Lomax household was a business. Both John and Bess were money-minded, keen with a dollar ... They were forever poised to take up any scheme that promised to stretch John's salary, now $1,300 annually. Their cow and chickens were immediate, if modest, sources of income, in the form of excess milk and eggs sold to neighbors. Soon the demand for their fresh milk was such that they had to add another cow, named Beauty. Then there was the income from newspaper 'stringing.' During the previous year John had earned occasional small sums by sending items from College Station to the Houston Post, which paid a few cents per column-inch for whatever they printed. Bess soon made a similar arrangement with the Galveston News (and later with the Houston Chronicle). She put the 'stringer' operation on a business footing, establishing for herself and John a monthly goal for the number of column inches which they would submit, and she bought a journal in which to keep careful track of all income and outgo ... Some months their efforts as stringers paid them as much as thirty or forty dollars. Bess also regularly sold off clothing they had outworn; her journal contained almost monthly entries for three or four dollars earned from 'old clothes'." A colored woman relates to the Eagle that she lost her boy at College Tuesday. She described him as a mulatto, seven years old, red-headed and with two teeth out in front. Information should be reported to the authorities at the court house. His name is Will 6 Hancock. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 11 February 1904, p.5, col.2 A Negro woman employed as a cook at College was accidentally shot in the arm by a young Negro boy Sunday evening. The arm had to be amputated. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 11 February 1904, p.5, col.2 Dock Nero, a Negro living at College Station, in attempting to board the 8 o‟clock passenger train for his home last night, fell beneath the cars and one foot was badly mangled by the wheels. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 7 March 1904, p.2, col.4 A south-bound passenger train struck a Negro at College Station Tuesday night, inflicting a serious wound on his head. He was brought to Bryan and reported getting along very well yesterday afternoon. The Eagle learns that a Negro who was with him claims he was asleep on the track, and he endeavored to get to him and get him off, but did not have time. The injured Negro‟s name is Orin Mathews. (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 26 May 1904, p.3, col.2 Bryan, Tex., Aug. 3 – Constable C.L. Baker today reported to The News correspondent a difficulty between two Negro women this morning below College Station. One of them, Mattie Murray, received seven ugly cuts, some of them eight inches long. None of them are believed to be dangerous. The other woman, Annie Jackson, came to town and gave up. Dallas Morning News, Aug.4, 1904, p.9 "Jesse Parks, the old Negro who is well remembered as the coachman of Governor Ross while the latter was president of the A. and M. College, died in Houston ... Jesse belonged to Mr. J.F. Parks' father before the Civil War, and went through the war with Mr. Parks, who enlisted at the age of 17 ...," (weekly) Bryan Eagle, 17 Nov. 1904, p.2, col.2 “At the A. and M.,” Houston Daily Post, 3 June 1905, p.7. African American waiters went on strike and were replaced by students “Using Student Waiters,” Galveston Daily News, 4 June 1905, p.5, col.2. College Station, Tex., June 3 – The mess hall of the Agricultural and Mechanical College is now supplied with student waiters, which is quite an innovation. The change from the Mexican and Negro waiters formerly used came about as the result of an unreasonable demand for higher wages. Thursday, just before noon, the Negro waiters announced that they would not serve supper last night unless their wages were very materially raised. A call was issued for student waiters and the required number quickly volunteered and the Negroes were informed that their services were no longer needed. In the past the college has experienced much difficulty in securing reliable help. Although good wages have always been paid the Negro waiters were always ready to desert the mess hall at any time for the cotton field, and frequently did so without a moment‟s notice. The use of student waiters has been under consideration for some time, and yesterday‟s incident but hastened the contemplated change. If it works as well as it does elsewhere the system of 7 student waiters will be made permanent, thus furnishing means by which fifteen or twenty young men can make their way through college. Dallas Morning News, 5 June 1905, p.6 The Republican Executive Committee of Brazos County met June 18, 1906, at the court house in this city with the following members present: D.B. Ballard, county chairman; E.L. Patterson, chairman precinct No. 1, Millican; K.K. Dangerfield, chairman precinct No.2, Wellborn; J.W. Washington, chairman precinct No.3, College; Jack Johns, chairman precinct No. 5, Harvey; Dan Jarvis, precinct No.6, Kurten; Rufus Daniels, precinct No.7, Cottonwood; George Wilson, precinct No.8, Edge; P.W. Warford, chairman precinct No.9, Stone City; M.V. Burgess, precinct No.10, West Bryan; A.B. Thornton, Precinct No.11, East Bryan; E.W. Knox, secretary. There were vacancies in precincts 6, 7 and 11 and a motion prevailed instructing the county chairman to fill the vacancies by appointment. A motion prevailed that nominations be made for a county ticket. A motion prevailed instructing the county chairman to see after judges for the election at each voting place. Motion prevailed recommending E. W. Knox for county chairman. The above vacancies were filled by the appointment of the following persons: A.B. Thornton, precinct No.11, East Bryan; Dan Jarvis, precinct No.7, Kurten. Brazos Pilot, 5 July 1906, p.4 News reached town yesterday afternoon after the Evening Pilot was on the street, of the death of Lucien Turner, colored, who was killed by his wagon running over him near Providence church. Turner was employed by Mr. J.H. Suber to haul wood to the A. & M. College, and while driving along the road, one of the standards on his wagon broke, causing the wood to fall and throwing him to the ground in front of the wheel, which passed over his body, crushing out his life. Brazos Pilot, 30 August 1906, p.3 Ananias Martin, a Negro employed by Prof. Johnson at College Station, was thrown from a horse Tuesday evening and received a severe fracture of the skull. An operation was performed to relieve the unfortunate Negro, but his case is considered hopeless. Brazos Pilot, 21 February 1907, page 7 “No Knowledge as To Some Charges,” Dallas Morning News, 20 June 1908, page 1. A&M president Harrington demanded that the two Negro children of the Hutson family‟s cook leave their house, because a smallpox quarantine was in effect; Harrington said, in part, “it was impossible to effectively quarantine Negroes”. Ca. 1909 – Though indoor plumbing was becoming commonplace on campus, many professors would not let their African American cooks use their indoor toilets, instead forcing them to use outhouses. See: Hohn, Caesar, Dutchman on the Brazos, 1963, p.83. Frank Sims, a colored laborer on the new building at the A. and M. College, ran amuck Sunday and pulling a gun something like a yard long cut down on Henry Grissett and one or two other Negroes, and for a time things looked panicky. The trouble occurred right at the campus tents in a whole host of dormitories. Soon after the fusilade opened the cadets got busy, and the officers soon disarmed the would be desperado and placed him 8 under arrest. Sheriff Conlee was phoned for and went out and brought the bad coon back to town and locked him up. He will have to answer to the charge of an assault with attempt to murder, and also to carrying the biggest gun in the county. Bryan Daily Eagle, 30 March 1909, page 3, col.4. "College Station Studies Comet," Dallas Morning News, 26 January 1910, p.5. Prof. O.M. Ball observed the comet and alerted other faculty and various students to take a look at it. The article continues, "The Negroes at the college soon found out what was doing, and they gathered to watch it, and the usual superstition took possession of them." “Annual Hike of Students,” Dallas Morning News, 27 March 1910, p.32. “There were six or seven big farm wagons loaded with commissary supplies, tents, equipment, etc. These went in charge of Regimental Quartermaster Cunningham and Battalion Quartermasters Kirsner and McDonald, the Negro janitors of the college being detailed as drivers of the wagons. There was another Negro fight between Negroes Saturday night in the neighborhood of College Station and one was killed. John Progue was stabbed in the neck by Cy Williams, the knife severing the jugular vein and death resulted in just a short time. Williams made his escape at the time but was captured about 11 o‟clock yesterday in the Bethel community by Sheriff Conlee about ten miles from the scene of the killing. He was brought to town and lodged in jail. Bryan Daily Eagle, 1 August 1910, p.3, col.4. "A. and M. Walks and Roads," Dallas Morning News, 9 September 1910, p.5. "This year there are a large number of applicants for work under student labor. In addition to those who benefit from the student labor there are others who accept work at the homes on the campus caring for the yards, milking cows, taking care of the family horse and buggy and doing other chores that are necessary, the families of the officers and members of the faculty preferring to give the work to worthy students to being annoyed by irresponsible Negroes." Saturday night Will Brown, a Negro man, seriously cut Annie Brown, a Negress, at A.&M. College. They quarreled and in the fight that ensued the man cut the woman in several places so severely that surgical treatment was called for. Sheriff Conlee yesterday arrested Brown and brought him to town, where he was taken before the county court, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and was fined $25 and costs. Bryan Daily Eagle, 18 April 1911, p.5, col.3. “Shot is Fatal,” Dallas Morning News, 27 July 1911, p.2. Dr. Raymond Haines Pond, aged 36 years, committed suicide; body was found by George Easter, “a Negro janitor” … no mention of burial place The one-room box servant‟s house on the premises of Dr. Otto H. Ellinger, surgeon of A.&M. College, was destroyed by fire last night. Only a caretaker was on the premises. It is not known how the fire originated. The loss is less than $100. The house belonged to the college and was uninsured. The volunteer fire department, composed of officers 9 and professors of the college, fought the fire, but an inadequate water supply interferred with effective work. Bryan Daily Eagle, 22 August 1911, p.4. College Station, Tex., Sept. 12 – Because of the lack of labor at College Station, Tex., Superintendent A.J. Neff in charge of the department of buildings and grounds is having slow progress in getting completed the cottages which are to be occupied by the teachers in the college next session. About fifteen cottages have reached the stage where paper hanging must be done, and the work is stopped on a large number of them because paper hangers are not available. He has had trouble also during the summer in getting common labor, and had to send to San Antonio to get Mexicans for this work. The janitor force was depleted by the exodus of negroes to the cotton patch, and Capt. C.O. Watkins, in charge of this work, went to Beaumont and gathered up a force of Negroes to do the work necessary. The dormitories have been repainted on the interior during the summer and scoured and are ready for the coming of the students. Every building, dormitory and administration buildings have been cleaned inside and out and will be in fine shape for the coming of the young men. Dallas Morning News, 14 September 1911, p.2 "Janitors and Servants Needed at A. & M.," Bryan Daily Eagle, 6 October 1911, p.2, col.2. Because people were picking cotton, the situation got so bad that campus women had to do their own laundry ! The implication is that picking cotton probably paid better than working as a servant, I think. “Promotions in Cadet Corps Are Announced,” Dallas Morning News, 8 October 1911, p.?. “Because of the increase in dormitories it has been found necessary to increase the Negro janitor force of the college, but Negroes are not available for the work. An effort was made to get competent Negro janitors in Houston, but it failed, and the present janitor force is doubling up on the work until the necessary men can be found.” While returning from Rock Prairie on Sunday afternoon where he had filled his regular appointment, Rev. S.W. Buchanan was asked by the colored people at Washington Chapel to stop and preach for them. He did so, and reports that they were appreciative and responsive, and the service was full of the presence of the Holy Spirit. Bryan Daily Eagle, 30 April 1912, p.5, col.5. College Station, Tex., May 6 – Will Garrett, aged 23 years, colored, who lives at Navasota, was found dead beside the track of the Houston and Texas Central railroad, near the depot. His left arm was broken and his skull fractured, both presumably caused by being struck by a southbound train. Coroner McGee of Bryan held the inquest. Dallas Morning News, 7 May 1912, p.8 Colonel Quarles telephoned The Eagle at noon that the electric elevator of the Texas Building Company, which is engaged in constructing the new engineering building, fell at 11:15 this morning. Ban Smith, a Bryan Negro, was on the elevator at the time and was right badly hurt. His head and face were badly bruised, his lips split and nose broken. He was attended at once by Dr. Ehlinger and the statement is made that he will live. Bryan Daily Eagle, 4 June 1912, p.1, col.3. 10 Hearne, Tex., Jan 28 – Joe Brown, a Negro, was shot and killed at Sutton, five miles south of Hearne this morning, after he had been commanded to throw up his hands. The Negro had been terrorizing the Negroes in the lower bottom for the past three months, and last night he went to College Station where he robbed several Negroes at the point of a gun and then boarded the train for Bryan. The officers congregated at Sutton, hiding behind a pile of wood. When the Negro was within thirty steps of them he was commanded to halt, and making an attempt to draw his gun, the officers fired, inflicting wounds which caused death in a short time. Dallas Morning News, 29 January 1913, page 2 “Two Men Were Killed by Live Wires at A. & M. College,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 Dec. 1913, p.1, col.3. George Easter (an African American) died, he was survived by his widow Rosa Easter Delia Childress, a Negress of College, was arrested today and charged with cutting Alice Steptoe, another Negress, just after the 11:00 car reached College last night. The latter was cut severely about the face and arm. The two women had been quarreling on the car and the cutting occurred just after they had gotten off at College. Bryan Weekly Eagle, 8 July 1915, page 3, col.6. "Negro Shoots At Farmer 3 Times," Bryan Daily Eagle, 19 Apr. 1916, sect.1, p.7, col.3. Anderson Wallace shot at Joe Dominik; Wallace said he was shooting at a dog. An I.& G.N. freight engine switching at College today, unfortunately freightened a team being driven by Andrew Adams, teamster for the mess hall, causing the horses to run away and as they lunged they jerked the front wheels from the wagon, leaving the bed and rear wheels in the path of the train, and Adams was run over and is not expected to live. Andrew Adams is one of the well known colored men of Bryan and has lived here all his life. He has many friends among both white and black who will regret to learn of the terrible accident that has befallen him. Later – A report was received from College at 2:30 stating Adams was dead. Bryan Daily Eagle, 10 March 1917, p.8, col.4. Draft Registration Cards, June 1917 – These records contain extensive information about African Americans who lived and worked in College Station. Here are extracts information on just a few of the people who worked at Texas A&M. BANKS, Climie, born 24 September 1899, employed as a laborer by R.P. Marstellar BANKS, Joseph, born 27 April 1892, employed on the “Experiment Stat A&M C.” BANKS, Ulysses Green, born 6 October 1879, employed as “cook, Y.M.C.A.,” College Station FINLEY, Aubrey, born 27 (?) May 1892, employed as a janitor at A.& M. College hospital FULLER, Albert Edward, born 15 April 1880, employed as a janitor at A.& M. College KEARNEY, Joe Nathan, born 30 May 1886, employed as a janitor at A.& M. College 11 KEARNEY, Joshua Welsey, born 9 September 1875, employed as a janitor for Agi Engineering Dpt (hard to read), A.& M. College KEARNEY, Square, born 3 October 1878, employed as a laborer at A.& M. College NERO, Phillip, born 12 December 1896, employed as a janitor at A.&M. College PEARCE, George, born 13 January 1883, employed as a laborer at A.& M. College ROSS, Andrew, born 20 November 1899, employed as “laborer, hospital, A.& M. College” WARD, Koppe, born 9 October 1888, employed as a janitor at Exp. Station WASHINGTON, Monroe, born 26 July 1877, employed as a janitor at A.& M. College The draft registration cards also list College Station residents who did not work for Texas A&M, such as: DAVIS, Will Vernon, born 2 May 1888, employed as a mail carrier by the government McKELLUM, Anson, born 21 October 1895, “farming for himself” College Station, Texas, June 22 – What is believed to be the first fire alarm ever given by wireless telegraphy in Texas was sounded here today by operators of the Signal Corps practicing at Kyle athletic field when the residence of the Negro ground keeper became ignited. A company of fire fighters from the Signal Corps seized the college equipment, ran a mile and extinguished the flames, thus saving the college gymnasium and nearby grand stands. Fort Worth Star Telegram, 23 June 1918, p.2 Nine pleas of guilty to the charge of gambling were entered in the Justice of the Peace Gainer‟s court this morning, following a raid on crap shooting made a the college by Sheriff Nunn and Constable Lon Baker. The officers got wind of the fact that a bunch of Negroes out there were shooting craps contrary to the peace and dignity of the State of Texas and went out there yesterday morning. It appears that the officers were very successful in catching the boys right in the midst of a game. They rounded them up and brought them to town on the train, the sheriff leaving his car standing on the railroad switch track out there and having to go after it later. None of the Negroes were found to be army slackers. Those who could not pay their fines were placed in jail and will work for the county for awhile. Bryan Daily Eagle, 28 June 1918, p.4, col.3. Bryan, Tex., July 19 – J. Canidy was electrocuted at A.& M. College last week, when he accidentally touched a live wire. His funeral was held Sunday and was conducted by the K. of P. lodge. Chicago Defender, 20 July 1918, page 1 "Class of 1879 Holds Happy Reunion on Campus," Reveille, 24 June 1919, p.4. They invited "Sam Wilson, the Negro waiter who served their table when they were students ... to come up." Notes that Wilson is "now a prosperous barber of Houston." He was happy to attend. For Sam Wilson‟s obituary, which does not mention his time at Texas A&M, see: “Sam Wilson Dies Here Thursday,” Houston Informer, 15 Nov.1930, p.4, col.2 12 "Notice to Campus Residents," Daily Bulletin, 28 September 1919, p.1. Reminds campus families of the rules about hiring "Negro labor." Some families hired African American men and women as servants. Milton Gross, a young Negro, was landed in jail this morning by Officers Morehead and White on a charge of burlarizing Allen Smith‟s store sometime last night. The officers went to the Negro‟s home and recovered $11.00 in nickels that had been taken from the cash drawer. It was the work of only a very few moments to pick up the right man when the officers learned that the loot consisted of nickels. It was learned that Gross had rented a bicycle and paid for it in nickels, and that he had a number of nickels in his pocket. Also, he had worked for Mr. Smith as a turkey picker before Christmas and was familiar with the store. After his arrest and a few minutes “sweating” he „fessed up and told where the rest of the loot was. The officers went to the home of the boy‟s mother at Union Hill near College and procured a pocket full of nickels, which will be returned to Smith, and the loss will not be more than one or two dollars. It was a clever piece of work on the part of the officials. The young Negro is also wanted on a charge of theft of a pair of shoes at College, according to reports from the officers. Bryan Weekly Eagle, 1 January 1920, p.1. Louis Vonner, an old colored man past 80 years of age, was run over by the motor car on the Bryan-College Station Interurban this morning and quite seriously, if not fatally, injured. The old fellow is almost totally deaf and did not hear the car coming, and the motorman after discovering him on the track, could not stop the car in time to avoid the accident. It is said the motormen have stopped their cars several times before and taken the old man off the track, but this time the gasoline motor was being operated and it could not be stopped in time. He was taken to the College hospital and given attention. A report from that institution to the Eagle stated his face was badly lacerated, his jaw being cut entirely through and his remaining teeth knocked out. Ten stitches were taken in sewing up the wound in his face. One of his legs was badly cut and his ribs broken on the left side. His nose was also broken and he was bleeding at the ears. The report to the Eagle stated because of his great age and the seriousness of his injuries, he would hardly recover. Bryan Weekly Eagle, 9 September 1920 Political Notice Hon. J.T. Maloney, Judge Brazos County, Texas. Greeting -- The undersigned petitioners representing the Black and Tan Republicans of Brazos County hereby respectfully request that you appoint (or in whatever way as may be regular, proper and in order) at least one supervisor at the following voting precincts in said county of Brazos, to serve at the forthcoming general election, November 2, 1920. This action is desired for our protection in part, and further designed to show our relative strength, in comparison with the so-called regular or lilly white Republicans. We pledge our support to the proposed School Amendment, and submit the following named persons 13 to be appointed as our supervisors at the various voting boxes throughout the county, to- wit: Millican: Henry Scott Wellborn: K.K. Dangerfield College: Sam Richardson Harvey: J.D. Daniels Reliance: James Anderson Edge: Willie Jones Zack: John Ward Smetana: Joe Triggs Steele Store: Will Eaton Bryan, E. Side: J.A. Vaughner Bryan, W. Side: B.F. Adams Respectfully submitted, W.M. Love County Chairman, Black & Tan Rep. Ed Scott, Secretary Bryan, Texas, October 20th, 1920 (Political advertisement) Bryan Weekly Eagle, 21 October 1920, p.4. “Shelly Ross, Colored, Killed on I.& G.N. Railway Crossing,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 24 December 1920, p.1. Ross was a farmer on the Newsome place; the accident took place at the Experiment Station, one mile north of campus. I have no idea why a different man‟s name is listed in the article below, nor which one is correct. Bryan … Westly Harris, a Negro, was instantly killed and his wife seriously injured when the wagon in which they were riding was struck by a southbound International & Great Northern passenger train near the Agricultural and Mechanical College. The wagon was demolished and both mules killed. Dallas Morning News, 26 December 1920, p.3 "College Park New Residential District," Bryan Daily Eagle, 7 December 1921, p.2, col.5. Mentions that one lot has two buildings which can be converted to a garage and servants quarters when the house is built. “Airship Passenger at A. & M. College Has Narrow Escape,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 23 August 1921, p.1, col.3. Josh Kearney, an African American, prevented a pilotless plane from taking off with a passenger aboard. “Negro Janitor Been Employed at A.& M. Near Half Century,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 27 February 1923, p.2, col.3. About “Uncle Dan” Jackson. Also see: “Uncle Dan” Jackson, colored, known to all the people of Bryan and College Station because of his long and faithful service as janitor at the College for 53 years, died Sunday night at his cabin home in Bryan on West 24th street. Uncle 14 Dan had been confined to his bed by illness since the Christmas holliday season. He was 94 years of age, having been born a slave on the plantation of his master, Billy Newton in Newton County, Georgia, in 1837. Funeral services for Uncle Dan will be held some time Wednesday from his home, and interment will be in Wellborn cemetery in the southern part of Brazos County, where his wife was buried many years ago. Four sons and one daughter survive him. The life story of Uncle Dan Jackson is an interesting one, and is linked with the early days of the Agricultural and Mechanical College. The story as given below is taken from a chapter of “In the Early Days,” as written in Brazos County History by Mrs. Albert Buchanan. Born a slave in Newton County, Georgia in 1838, Dan Jackson was sold by his master Billy Newton, when he was 17 years old, to Solomon also of Newton County, for $560. Later, a Negro speculator came from Atlanta, Ga., buying “niggers, mules and horses,” and Dan and his brother John Jackson were bought and carried to Atlanta, where the two brought $1,500 on the “block.” Just a few months later Dan was brought to Texas. In 1875 he was hired as janitor for the A. and M. College, and worked there continuously as long as he was physically able to work, 53 years of continuous service being credited to him. Since old age has made him too feeble to work, the A. and M. College has kept this faithful old Negro on the pay roll, and he received his “envelope” regularly. He lived with the first president of the A. and M. College, Dr. Thos. S. Gathright, and during the “days of the beginning,” at the College, helped to haul the rock by ox wagon from the quarry on the Brazos River to put in the foundation of the first main building on the college campus which was named for Dr. Gathright. He told of the time when the workers needed some brick “to build up de walls wid,” he said, “and we just burned us some brick in a kiln, right dar on the ground whar we wus, and wid dem home made bricks we built de fust two houses at de College.” Bryan Weekly Eagle, 29 January 1931, p.6. “Colored Folks Thank Citizens for Support,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 14 August 1923, p.4, col.6. Mentions Washington Chapel in passing. “Negro Is Arrested At College – Said To Be Bad Actor,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 29 December 1923, p.1, col.5. Lee Walker In F.L. Thomas' self-published My Story, he notes: pp.87-88 (talking about the time period when they first moved to campus, ca. May 1924): "In Auburn, Mabel [his wife] had become accustomed to many callers and friends due to the old time southern hospitality. She missed that atmosphere upon arrival in College Station ... The crowded condition in the house [on campus] and the fact that she was pregnant, all contributed to a feeling of loneliness that Mabel distinctly felt and could hardly bear. We obtained the help of a Negro maid, who was allowed to live in the one room structure in our backyard. With her help and the care of our four children, Mabel continued to survive, although she said, 'I would crawl back to Alabama on my knees, if it were possible'." 15 “Health Conference Program For Week For Negro Children,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 9 June 1924, p.1, col.5. Mentions Washington Chapel. “Brazos County Negro Agricultural Fair in Full Blast Today,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 16 August 1924, p.1, col.2. Mentions Washington Chapel. The house on Kyle Field occupied by Will Davis, Negro laborer, for the Athletics Department, was destroyed early Saturday morning by fire of undetermined origin. The fire occurred about 5 o‟clock Saturday morning. The value of the house which was a total loss was about 2,000, James Sullivan, business manager of Athletics stated. It was covered by insurance. Bryan Daily Eagle, 18 March 1925, p.1, col.3. Joe Carey, a young Negro farmer aged about 21 or 22, was shot in the back from a bullet from a 32-pistol in the hands of a Bohemian farmer, the ball lodging in the body, according to Sheriff Jess Conlee who made an arrest in the case. The incident happened about 8 or 9 o‟clock this morning. According to the Sheriff the Negro, who lives on his parents‟ farm about 2 miles south of College, had been at the house of Charles Brumer, and had been talking to the daughter in a manner deemed offensive. The Bohemian ordered the Negro from the place and he returned with a shotgun, whereupon the Bohemian farmer went into action. This is the version as given by Sheriff Conlee. Bryan Weekly Eagle, 6 August 1925, p.1, col.6 During the 1926 / 1927 school year, the A. and M. Consolidated School District reported that it had no “colored” students enrolled in classes, although 6 “colored” children lived within the school district. [Twenty-Fifth Biennial Report State Department of Education 1926-1928. Austin: Von Boeckmann-Jones Co., 1929, p.258] “Bryan Briefs,” Houston Informer, 1 June 1929, p.5, col.6. Charley Nero died and was buried at Washington Chapel Cemetery. Elijah Richardson, 30, Negro workman employed on the chemistry laboratory emergency unit constructed at the A. and M. College was struck in the back of the head by a descending work elevator. The Negro‟s skull was crushed by the blow and he died shortly after being removed to the hospital. Richardson, who had been employed for some time at the college lived between College Station and Bryan. Bryan Weekly Eagle, 6 June 1929, p.3, col.3. "Struck by Auto Negro is Killed Worked at A.& M.," Bryan Weekly Eagle, 15 August 1929, p.3, col.8. Joe Ransom. By the 1929 / 1930 school year, the A. & M. Consolidated School District was reporting the enrollment of African American students: A.& M. Consolidated District, 1929-1930: Colored: Scholastic population: 154 Enrollment: elementary – 145 16 high school – 1 (From: Twenty-Sixth Bienniel Report Texas Superintendent of Public Instruction, p.343). Exactly where these children attended school is not stated. “Bryan Briefs,” Houston Informer, 15 March 1930, p.8, col.5. Deaths included Calvin Jones of College Station “Bryan Briefs,” Houston Informer, 4 April 1931, p.8, cols.4-5. Mrs. Annie Nolie of College Station died. Bryan, Texas, April 4 – Two Bryan Negroes were killed in an automobile crash one mile south of College Station early Saturday. They were Emmett Hunter, 33, and Seth Dunn, 37, owner and driver of the car. Louis Fair and two Negro women were in the car with them and escaped with scratches. Dallas Morning News, 5 April 1931, sect.1, p.11 “Bryan Briefs,” Houston Informer, 6 June 1931, p.8, col.4. Mrs. Lucille Lyons of College Station died A Negro girl Maydell said to be about 12 years old and the adopted daughter of Martha Moore, who lives in the Negro section near College Park, was drowned in the Park lake on Friday evening between the hours of 7 and 8 o‟clock. Mr. and Mrs. Hershell Burgess, hearing evident cries of distress, drove to the lake and found the girl‟s mother and other colored women on the dam and according to their story, Maydell‟s younger brother had run breathlessly from the lake to their home to tell them that Maydell fell in the lake. Mr. Burgess went in where the boy said she fell in the water as she walked out on a diving board to get her small dog which had ventured out and which she feared would fall in and be drowned. Burgess found the girl in water near the dam and applied first aid, meanwhile others gathered and every effort was made to revive her, but unsuccessfully. Bryan Weekly Eagle, 15 October 1931, p.3. “Training Center for Negro Maids A-M Consolidated,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 27 April 1932, page 6. “Bryan Briefs,” Houston Informer, 28 May 1932, p.5, col.1. Mrs. Roberta Reddan of College Station died A.& M. Consolidated District, 1934-1935 Colored 196 – scholastics 6-17 years 201 – enrollment average daily attendance – 127 number of teachers – 5 number of grades taught – 9 number of days taught – 158 number of months teachers paid – 8 17 [From: Report of the Results of the Texas Statewide School Adequacy Survey (1937), p.1726] “Consolidated Has Increase; Negro Schools to Open,” Bryan Weekly Eagle, 23 September 1936, page 1. “The three Negro schools that are to open Monday are at College Park, Wellborn and Shirock. No changes in the teaching force were made this year.” “College to Pay Honor Saturday to 43 Employees,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 17 December 1937, page 1. Long time employees included Roland Columbus (colored), 29 years; Monroe Washington (colored), 28 years; and Koppe Ward (colored), 27 years. All rural negro schools of the county districts and three of the A.& M. Consolidated district, making a total of 33, are now receiving aid and the students are served hot lunches each day at the noon hour. This is a part of the home training of the boys and girls under the supervision of Pauline Watkins, Jeanes supervisor of rural schools. Bryan Daily Eagle, 5 December 1938, p.3, col.3 Charge Negro Foreman Uses Abusive Language Brazos County White Man Quits Job, Files Charges Sam Mays, Negro foreman of a gang of workmen employed on the dormitory construction job at Texas A.& M. College, was arrested today and lodged in jail, on a charge of using abusive language and simple assault. The complainant was W.P. Railey, whom the Negro attempted to boss and fire. Rather than work under the direction of the Negro, Railey, well known Brazos county man, drew the pay he had coming to him and left the job. Bryan Daily Eagle, 4 May 1939, p.1, col.7. “Negro Is Jailed After Shooting; Murder is Charged,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 5 December 1939, p.1, col.7. Shooting took place “in the servants quarters of the E.L. Williams home on the Campus of the Texas A.& M. College.” Wash Williams, well known and aged Negro citizen of College Station, celebrated his ninety-third birthday Wednesday with a birthday party given by his daughters, (illegible) and Odessa Ford, at the home of Rev. and Mrs. Ford. Guests included relatives, several pastors and close friends from Bryan, College Station and Hearne. He received many presents from Negro friends and cash from white friends. Bryan Daily Eagle, 14 March 1940, p.1, col.3. A.& M. Consolidated District, 1940-1941: Colored: Scholastic population: 287 Enrollment: 195 Average daily attendance: 134 Number of classroom teachers: 5 Aggregate annual salaries of classroom teachers: $ 4,136 18 (From: Thirty-Second Bienniel Report Texas Superintendent of Public Instruction, p.81) Tom Hudson, an old Negro resident, died Thursday night at his home. He was a brick mason and helped to build the dormitories at A.& M. College. The funeral was held this afternoon from Shiloh Baptist Church, of which he was a member. Bryan Daily Eagle, 24 February 1941, p.3, col.3. In order to discuss the ways and means of financing a $40,000 bond issue, a meeting of the parents of the A.& M. Consolidated School District has been called for 7:30 next Monday evening at the Physics Lecture Room by the Mothers‟ Club. A cafeteria, gymnasium-auditorium, football field, and a Negro elementary and high school are the improvements to be financed by the bond issue. The bond issue election will be held in the music room of the high school, March 29. All patrons of the school district who are interested in the matter are requested to be present at the meeting Monday evening to discuss the question thoroughly, Mrs. Ethyl W. Burgess, president of the Mothers‟ Club stated. Battalion, 15 March 1941, p.4 “Meet to Discuss A.& M. Consolidated School Improvements,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 17 March 1941, p.3, col.7. Including proposed “Negro elementary and high school” “Consolidated School Bonds are Carried,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 31 March 1941, p.1, col.2 "Negro Agents Give Demonstration on Meats at A.& M.," Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 July 1941, p.6, col.4. This is (I think) unusual in that African Americans gave a presentation to whites at an A&M short course ... Negro residents of College Station met at the A.& M. Consolidated Negro school recently and organized a Citizens Business League, with the object of improving the social, educational and religious life of the community. Officers elected were: Rev. A.W. Ray, president; Prince Palmer, secretary; Reuben King, treasurer; and A.M. Newsome, reporter. Other officers and committees will be elected and appointed at the next meeting. Bryan Daily Eagle, 27 March 1942, p.6, col.6 “Consolidated Negro Boys Work on Food for Freedom,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 2 April 1942, p.7, col.6. “The N.F.A. (New Farmers of America) chapter of the A.& M. Consolidated Negro school has made progress toward the Brazos County „Food for Freedom‟ program. New projects under way include 14 pure bred Duroc Jersey gilts, 850 pure bred chicks, with an additional order in for 1200 additional chicks for the first of April, and 95 acres of peanut land in readiness for planting. All the charter members … (article continues) ….” “College Station Negroes Study First Aid Courses,” Battalion, 30 June 1942, p.1 19 "Negro Qualifies to Give 1st Aid Work to Fellows," Bryan Daily Eagle, 30 June 1942, p.6, col.6. Eddie Chew, employed at Texas A&M, is "now conducting classes for Negroes at the Negro A.& M. Consolidated School ...." "A-M Negro High School Closes to Help Farmers," Bryan Daily Eagle, 23 September 1942, p.7, col.3. For one day. "Consolidated Negro Homemakers Progress," Bryan Daily Eagle, 25 November 1942, p.4, col.4 "Ag Dept. at Consolidated Negro School Successful," Bryan Daily Eagle, 26 November 1942, p.4, col.5 "The A. and M. Consolidated Negro Choral Club will render ...," Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 March 1943, p.3, col.6 "Kemp Consolidated Win County Basketball Meet," Bryan Daily Eagle, 29 March 1943, p.4, col.3 "A-M Negro School Commencement to be Tuesday Night," Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 May 1943, p.3, col.8. "A.& M. Negro Consolidated Commencement Opens," Bryan Daily Eagle, 22 May 1943, p.3, col.5. At Washington Chapel. "Delay Opening of Negro AM School Until Sept. 13th," Bryan Daily Eagle, 31 August 1943, p.2, col.7 Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Shiloh Negro Baptist church for Samuel Ellis, 99, a slave child who became one of the first Negro employees of Texas A.& M. College helping in the veterinary department and later all around the college for a number of years. Ellis, who was born in the state of Georgia 99 years ago, died January 8. He joined the Shiloh Baptist Church during Rev. D.H. Shivers‟ pastorate. He leaves a wife, seven children, 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 January 1944, p.2, col.3. "Negro Consolidated Wins in State Meet," Bryan Daily Eagle, 27 April 1944, p.5, col.5. “Negro School at College Station Plans Exercises,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 25 May 1945, p.3, col.7 Hughes, W.L., “History of A&M Consolidated School,” Battalion, 19 July 1945, p.2; 26 July 1945, p.2; 2 Aug. 1945, p.2; 9 Aug. 1945, p.2. The 3rd article contains this paragraph: "It became necessary a good man y years ago to erect a new building for the colored children and furnish transportation. The budget for 20 the colored school alone now runs about $15,000 a year. In the beginning the colored school consisted of a one-room school situated just east of the campus on what is now Highway 6. No transportation was needed. The budget for such a school was only a few hundred dollars annually. The colored school is now housed in a $12,000 building and is doing an excellent job of furnishing a practical education for the colored children. It is a 12 grade school with 10 teachers. Vocational agriculture and home economics are featured." The Panthers eleven of A&M Consolidated Negro high went down to Navasota Friday afternoon and took the Wildcats, representing the Negro high school, into camp by a score of 13 to 0. Scoring was largely due to the ball carrying ability of Capt. J.W. Walker and Co-Captain A. Eaton. Bryan Daily Eagle, 29 September 1945, p.4 In a hard fought battle Friday night the A.& M. Consolidated Negro high school Panthers lost to the Huntsville Tigers 32-19. The first touchdown was made by Huntsville and Co- Captain Eaton running from his 40, tied the score in the first quarter. Passes from Walker to J. Washington netted scores. The starting lineup for the Panthers was: B. Stewart, re; J. Washington, le; Garvin, rt; Roy, lt; Peterson, rg; C. Jones, c; Peyton, lg; J. Walker, qb; Walker, fb; Eaton, rh; Townsend, lh. Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 October 1945, p.8, col.4 A.& M. Consolidated Negro Panthers gained another victory Friday when they downed a heavier Fairview eleven on the Panther field 26-7. The first score came when Co-Captain Eaton circled right end for 15 yards and Walker ran the extra point. The second tally was a 40-yard pass completion, James Walker to B. Stewart, which placed the score 13-0 at the half. The Fairview Tigers came to life in the third quarter and drove down the field for their lone score and the extra point. Other scores for the Panthers were made on a pass from Walker to Gilbert and an unexpected pass to Eaton on his own 45, galloping 55 yards for the touchdown. Bryan Daily Eagle, 20 October 1945, p.4, col.3 “Supt. Bunting Guest of Negro Consolidated,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 20 October 1945, p.4, col.4 In a colorful homecoming, Thursday, the A.& M. Negro Consolidated panthers walloped the Lockhart Lions by a score of 41-0. The Panthers received, and on hard-driving plays and passes, they marched to the Lions 15. From here Co-Captain Eaton, who is still crippled from a previous game, went over standing up for the first tally. Extra point by Captain Walker. The Lions uncovered sustained running and driving power in the second period and drove to the Panther 2-foot line. The Panther line turned on its power and held for three downs. On the fourth down, Payton intercepted a pass and raced 95 yards down midfield only to have the touchdown called back and the Panthers penalized for clipping at midfield. From this point, Co-Captain Eaton swept his right end for the second tally. Half ended 14-0. After a scoreless third quarter, the Panthers forged ahead on touchdowns by Eaton and Gilbert and two by Walker. Garvin, Peterson, Gilbert, J. Washington, Stewart and Jones were standouts in the Panther line. Bryan Daily Eagle, 23 November 1945, p.8, col.2 21 “Negro Consolidated Wins in League Meet,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 23 April 1946, p.6, col.3 “Negro History Week at Lincoln High School,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 12 February 1947, p.3, col.5 "Tools on Wheels ...," Battalion, 18 September 1947, p.1. Article about, including photo of, African Americans Eddie Chew & Reubin King, groundskeepers. The Lincoln High Panthers of College Station will be seeking their first victory of the year in Calvert on Friday night, and will take on the Brenham Lions at Bomber Park on Tuesday night, Oct.7, at 8 p.m. The Panthers lost to Caldwell last Friday afternoon by a 7-0 score. Bryan Daily Eagle, 1 October 1947, p.7 Tonight at Bomber Park the Lincoln High Panthers will kick the lid off on this week‟s local grid clashes, meeting Brenham at 8 p.m. Not much is known of either team in this tilt. The Panthers who represent College Station‟s Negro high school downed Calvert 19- 0 in their first tilt, but will be making their first appearance before the local crowd and no advance dope whatsoever has been received from the Brenham club. Bryan Daily Eagle, 7 October 1947, p.5, col.6. Also includes advertisement. A rugged running game, plus a dangerous passing attack and an air tight defense, was just too much for Brenham Tuesday night, as the Class B Lincoln high Panthers protected their undefeated record to win by the score of 19-0. Late in the second quarter Peyton intercepted a pass on his own 45 yard line and returned it 55 yards for the first Lincoln touchdown and in the third the Panthers added two more. A drive of 63 yards, climaxed by an 18 yard line buck by Peyton tallied the second touchdown and a few minutes later the Panthers recovered a fumble and started moving again. This drive was climaxed by an 18 yard pass from Townsend to Barker. Walker‟s try for point was good after this touchdown and the score stood at 19-0. .[missing text] department in which the Panthers proved superior Tuesday. They also racked up a total of 100 yards net gained rushing, while holding Brenham to only 22 and gained a total of seven first downs, as compared to Brenham‟s three. Walker was the individual star for the Panthers, but barely nosed out Goosby and Peyton for this honor. Bryan Daily Eagle, 8 October 1947, page 2, column 3 Tonight at 8 p.m., under the lights of Bomber Park, the Lincoln high Panthers will attempt to protect their perfect record, when they meet O.J. Thomas high of Cameron. Thus far in two outings the Panthers have kept their goal line uncrossed, downing both Calvert and Brenham by the score of 19-0. Tonight they will be out to keep that double stripe untouched. Nothing is known of the Cameron team, but the Panthers came out of last week‟s tilt in fine shape and will probably use the same starting lineup tonight. Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 October 1947, p.7, col.6 The Lincoln Panthers of College Station continued their winning streak in Navasota Friday night, defeating Carver High by a score of 51-0. The longest run of the game was a 75 yard sprint, with perfect blocking, on an intercepted pass by Townsend. Standing 22 out for the Panthers were Jones, Gilbert, Goosby and the alternating centers, Baker and C. Jones. Bryan Daily Eagle, 27 October 1947, p.3 The Negro football championship of Brazos County will be at stake Thursday night at Bomber Park, when the Lincoln High Panthers of College Station tangle with the Kemp High Bears of Bryan. The undefeated Panthers, a Class “B” aggregation, have defeated all opponents by very decisive margins thus far this year, whereas the Bears have been up and down the whole season. Some weeks the Bears were “hot as a seven dollar pistol”, but at other times they were “cool as a cucumber.” A real battle is predicted. The Lincoln Panthers, coached by J.C. Cunningham, feature one of the outstanding passers in this section of the state in James Walker and are able to mix this aerial attack with a splendid ground game, thanks to the brilliant individual performance of J.E. Payton. Kemp High places its hope on fleet footed Wendell Davis, the national junior colored A.A.U. 100 yard dash champion. Last year Davis clicked off the century in 9.5 at the A.A.U. meet held in St. Louis. School officials state that advance tickets are on sale at both of the schools and that a special section would be reserved for the white fans. Game time is 8 p.m. Bryan Daily Eagle, 9 December 1947, p.3 "Kemp, Lincoln Clash Tonight," Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 December 1947, p.3, col.5 "Kemp Field Goal Defeats Panthers," Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 December 1947, p.5, col.2 The College Station First Baptist Church closed a vacation Bible school for Negro children of that city last night. Classes were held in the Lincoln school building with 131 registered and an average attendance of 103. All departments took part in the commencement program yeseterday. The church was asked to conduct another school next year. Bryan Daily Eagle, 17 July 1948, p.2, col.3. “Alleged Slayer of Former Wife Cuts Own Throat,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 5 April 1949, p.1, col.7. William Porter, employed at Sbisa, was found dead in the employee‟s dormitory on campus. "Campus Study Club Helps Piano Fund of AM Negro School," Bryan Daily Eagle, 28 January 1950, p.3. "Lincoln Students at Hi-Y Meeting," Bryan Daily Eagle, 20 March 1950, p.4, col.1. “… Those attending were James Stewert, James McGruder, Curley Green, Howard Thompson, Eunice Lee Thompson, Doris Wellborn, Arister Brooks, Dalton Collier, George Jones, Isiah Johnson, Christabell Columbus, Evelyn Boone, Margaret Townsend and Mary MaCarvey. They were accompanied by the sponsors, Mrs. P.L. Carter and L.E. King. "Class of '84 Member, 73 Years Old, Responsible for Location of College," Battalion, 28 September 1950, p.1. Walter Wipprecht, class of 1884, was interviewed, "In the days when Wipprecht was a student the laundry was done by a Negro woman who lived along side the railroad tracks that run along side the campus. She had a contract with the 23 College to do the College laundry. Once a week she came by Old Main and the students would throw their laundry out of the windows to her. She would take the laundry and do it for them and then return it to them later in the week ..." I have no idea when the first college laundry was built, but I suspect all of the cadets' washing was done by African American women from the time the college opened until the date the laundry was built. This unnamed, faceless woman lost in the mists of time represents, I think, all the many women who have toiled long hours at tasks such as washing laundry and cleaning buildings, without ever receiving any recognition. “Lincoln Tri-Hi-Y Attend Meeting at Prairie View,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 December 1950, p.11, col.1 “Lincoln High Clubs Assist Needy Families,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 25 January 1951, p.3, col.1 “Lincoln Students Meet with Madisonville,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 15 February 1951, p.3, col.7 “Hi School Students Return from Hearne,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 6 March 1951, p.4, col.3. From Lincoln High School. A girls‟ sextette from Lincoln School under the direction of Argie M. Hayford will present a musics program Saturday night at the Consolidated School at the Library benefit program sponsored by the Campus Study Club. Lincoln School will share in the proceeds of the benefit and is making the contribution to the project through the courtesy of the principal, W.A. Tarrow. The members of the sextette are Esterline Welborn, Alma Ruth Searcy, Johnnie Lois Columbus, Jeffie Boone, Ethel Mae Steen and Audrey Lee Steen. They will sing “Tampico,” “Tennessee Waltz,” “I‟ll Never be Free” and “Huckle Buck.” Bryan Daily Eagle, 8 March 1951, p.3, col.3 “Campus Study Club Completes Plan for School Project,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 9 March 1951, p.4, col.3. Lincoln School library “Campus Study Club‟s Library Project Nets Approximately $150,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 13 March 1951, p.3, col.3. Lincoln School. “Lincoln Students Receive Award at Area Meeting,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 4 April 1951, p.2, col.7 “British West African Speaker at Lincoln High,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 7 April 1951, p.8, col.7 "Campus Study Club to Have Clothing Sale for Lincoln School," Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 January 1952, p.3. 24 “Lincoln Pupils Plan Program for 4-H Club Work,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 March 1953, p.5, col.4 "College Station Soldier Returned in Exchange," Bryan Daily Eagle, 31 August 1953, p.1. About African American Hubert Hawkins, whose mother "Mrs. Washington" worked in "the janitor's department at Texas A&M" "Hospital Worker Knows His Medicine," Battalion, 19 November 1954, p.1. Tom Brown, an African American employee of the Vet School since 1920, is described; includes a photo of him standing before a painting of him, which hangs at the Vet School. "Lincoln NHA Has Style Show," Bryan Daily Eagle, 24 April 1955, p.6, col.1 Walter Steen took over the helm of the College Station Negro Chamber of Commerce Friday night at the annual banquet. He succeeds Henry Williams. Other officers for the year are Daniel Washington, secretary, and Riley Woods, treasurer. W.A. Tarrow told the banquet crowd the purpose of the organization and reported on one of the Interest Group sesions, “community service,” which was a part of the educational conference held at Prairie View March 1. A musical program was presented by the “Tru-Tones,” a trio from Consolidated junior high school. Bryan Daily Eagle, 3 March 1957, p.4, col.1. College Station, Texas – Walter Steen has been named president of the College Station Negro Chamber of Commerce. Dallas Morning News, 5 March 1957, sect.1, p.16 The Mothers‟ club of Lincoln School at College Station completed a project of placing venetian blinds in the elementary and home economics buildings at a cost of $400. The money was raised by contests and dinners. Mrs. Gussie Wilborn is president of the Mothers‟ Club, with Mrs. Mozell Williams secretary and Mrs. Daisy Steen treasurer. Bryan Daily Eagle, 6 June 1957, p.6, col.1. “Honorees at the Annual Christmas Dinner,” Texas A&M System News, February 1958, p.6. Includes picture of James Stewart, dining hall, Texas A&M, in a group portrait. “Kurten and Lincoln of Hale-Aikin,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 March 1958, p.1, col.8. Bryan, Texas – Mrs. Annie B. Peterson, 82, was buried in Wellborn Cemetery after services at the Pleasant Grover Baptist Church. Survivors include the husband, nine children, 28 grandchildren, and 33 great-grandchildren. The children are Mrs. Rosetta Cheeks, Bryan; Mrs. Gussie Wilborn, Mrs. Daisy Stewart, Mrs. Bertha Steen, all of College Station; Mrs. R.L. Castles, Wichita Falls; Hayward Peterson of Bryan; Don Peterson and Oscar Peterson of College Station, and Otha Peterson of Dallas; two sisters, Mrs. Eliza J. Mitchell of Bryan and Mrs. Nannie Jones of Marlin. Dallas Morning News, 18 August 1957, sect.1, p.16 "Lincoln High 4-H'ers Elect New Officers," Bryan Daily Eagle, 18 September 1958, p.11, col.3. “… Clinton Robinson was elected president of the Lincoln High School 4-H 25 club at a meeting Wednesday. Other officers elected during the meeting were Jimmy Banks, vice president, Dorothy M. Rooks, secretary, Imogene McKellom, reporter and Betty Jo Wilborn, song leader … (article continues) ….” “Oscar Eaton,” Texas A&M System News, January 1959, p.4 Mrs. R.L. Mosley was installed as president of the Lincoln Parent-Teacher Association at the final meeting of the year, Tuesday night. Other officers installed were Mrs. Gussie Wilborn, vice president, Mrs. M. Williams, secretary, Mrs. A.L. Ford, assistant secretary, and Mrs. P. Robinson as treasurer. Mrs. G. Jones read the duties of the respective officers and charged them with the responsbilities. Mrs. Wilborn, outgoing president, gave a financial report. A total of $343.67 was donated to the Senior Class Project for choir robes and $19, plus a $25 scholarship has been raised to give the outstanding student of Lincoln High School. Bryan Daily Eagle, 14 May 1959, p.9. “Suits Filed Against Two School Systems,” Dallas Morning News, 24 August 1961, p.4 “Lincoln Takes Two Crowns in Hearne,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 29 January 1962, p.7, col.3 “Negro History Week Scheduled,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 11 February 1962, p.3, col.5. At Lincoln High School. “Lincoln School to Get Piano,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 14 February 1962, p.4, col.6 “Lincoln Slates Play at School,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 30 March 1962, p.16, col.5 “Integration Meet Set Wednesday for College Station School,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 21 August 1962, p.1, col.1 Bryan, Texas – All grades of the Bryan and College Station schools will be integrated this coming school term. Superintendents of the A&M Consolidated and Bryan schools disclosed the decision Tuesday. Last year the first two grades were integrated with 28 Negroes attending white schools in Bryan and 13 in College Station. Already, 100 Negroes have registered for Bryan schools in September. Dallas Morning News, 18 August 1965, sect.B, p.8 Stewart, Robert, Jr., “Lincoln School Blaze Displaces 100,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 21 January 1966, p.1 “Lincoln School Book Count Slated Monday,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 23 January 1966, p.1 Brown, Shari, “Consol Board Shuffles Pupils,” Bryan Daily Eagle, 25 January 1966, p.1. "CS Project Wins Fame," Bryan Daily Eagle, 2 Dec. 1966, p.1, col.2. Community House 26 "Blacks Celebrate Freedom," The Eagle, 18 June 1976, sect.A, p.6. Mostly about activities in Navasota; includes a brief note about "Family Day" at Lincoln Center in College Station. Zipp, Margaret Ann, “They Call Her Aunt Gussie,” Bryan-College Station Eagle, 28 July 1985, sect.E, p.1. About Gussie WILBORN, daughter of Walter and Annie PETERSON. "A&M Speaker to Attend Juneteenth Bluesfest," Battalion, 15 June 1989, p.7. At Lincoln Recreation Center in College Station. "A&M Professor Gives Juneteenth Speech," Battalion, 19 June 1990, pp.1, 6. At Lincoln Center in College Station. "Locals Celebrate Juneteenth Holiday," Battalion, 21 June 1993, pp.1-2. At Lincoln Center. Carl N. Kearney was born to Joshua and Laura Kearney on November 12, 1908, in Zack, Texas. As a small child his parents moved to College Station, Bryan, Texas. He joined St. Matthew Baptist Church and was baptized under the leadership of Reverend S. M. Murphy. Mr. Kearney served as superintendent of Sunday School and president of the choir. On August 23, 1939, he was ordained as a deacon. On October 29, 1942, he married Bessie Lee Sharp. He joined Mount Olive Baptist Church in 1946. During this time, he served as chairman of the Deacon Board, chairman of the Finance Committee, president of the Senior Choir, teacher of the Men's Bible Class, and superintendent of Sunday School for 24 years. He retired from Capital Equipment Company. On June 26, 1996, Carl N. Kearney departed this life. His father, mother, two brothers and one sister preceded him in death. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 53 years, Bessie Lee Kearney; three sons, Ambres E. Kearney and wife, Catherine Kearney, John Roy Sharp and wife Helen Sharp, Lawrence Sharp and wife Verlinda Sharp; 13 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild and other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 29, 1996, at the Mount Olive Baptist Church with Reverend R. C. Smith officiating. Interment will be at Capital Memorial Gardens. Arrangements by Fuller-Sheffield Funeral Service, 2808 East MLK Jr. Blvd., (512) 476-9164. Austin American Statesman, Friday, June 28, 1996, Austin, Tx "Juneteenth Activities Planned for Weekend at Lincoln Center," Bryan-College Station Eagle, 17 June 1999, sect.A, p.12 *** Here are some notes from the 1880 Brazos Co. Census, pp.270b-271d Jane Thornton, a 28 year old single Black woman, was a cook in the household of Charles P. Estill. Lizzie McMillan, a 25 year old mulatto, was a cook for Hardaway Dinwiddie. 27 James Chatham, a 39 year old Black man, and William Robertson, a 20 year old Black man, were waiters under Sbisa. Interestingly, the other mess hall staff (including cooks) all were white -- at least the ones who lived on the campus. In the 1900 U.S. Census, Brazos Co., precinct 7, pp.9a -9b. (This is almost the very end of the reel), there were only three African Americans (two men and one woman) listed on campus, but there were also almost no whites. I didn't think to look at the date, but the census may have been taken in the middle of summer, when the campus was normally deserted. Anyhow, the African American woman was (p.9a): Adalade Thompson, b.1861, who was a cook in the household of Charles W. Hutson, prof. of Engl. & History In the 1910 U.S. Census, Brazos Co. , the campus listings appear in Enumeration District 14, sheets 9a - 12a, plus the mess hall listings on sheet 15a. The census lists many cooks & other workers for private families; sample listings include: p.10a – In the household of Frank MacDougall, Mary Nero, aged 20, was a privately employed cook p.10b – this includes the list of hotel employees, including: Smith, John – aged 34, cook Smith, Charley, aged 28, a "black" dishwasher and his wife Charity Smith, a "mulatto" dishwasher – according to the census they had been married one year Pearce, Edward – aged 24, a mulatto, a waiter Finley, Aubrey – aged 21, a mulatto, a waiter Motin, Berry – aged 21, "black", a waiter John, James Henry – aged 23, "black", a laborer The mulatto listings raise the question whether there was some preference to hire lighter skinned Blacks to work as waiters in the Hotel. p.12a – In the household of Mark Francis worked Mollie Hearn, aged 35, as a cook, as well as Caron (?) Hearn, aged 17, perhaps Mollie's daughter, also as a cook p.15a – workers in the mess hall included many Hispanics, plus the following African Americans: Davis, W. – aged 36 – cook Adams, A. – aged 46 – cook Tucker, Edgar – aged 17 – dishwasher Cas, Tom – aged 19 – dishwasher Henry, Frone (?) – aged 38, "black," a chambermaid Henry, Sallie – aged 10, "mulatto", no occupation Henry, Rebecka – aged 7, "mulatto," no occupation The census indicates that Ms. Frone Henry was single and was not the mother of any children, so it's unclear exactly who the two Henry children were related to – of course, the census only reports the facts that people furnished, so there may well be more to that story than is apparent. *** St. Matthews Baptist Church 28 Brazos County Deed Book 58, p.261 (1922): Southside Development Co. sold M.D. DAVIS, Wash WILLIAMS, John BURDEN & Lee BURNAM land in College Park. Brazos County Deed of Trust, Book U, pp.387-389 (1927): Eddie CHEW, Oscar WILLIAMS, John BIRDEN & Wash WILLIAMS gave a deed of trust to S.L. BOATWRIGHT on land in College Park. Brazos County Deed Book 96, p.331 (May 1938): Church Deacons Eddie CHEW, Rubin KING and Wash WILLIAMS sold property in College Park subdivision on Hereford Street. Brazos County Deed Book 116, pp.85-87 (1943): The Southside Development Company sold Eddie CHEW, Rubin KING and Josh KEARNEY, church deacons, land in College Park Brazos County Deeds of Trust Book 52, pp.153-154 (1953): Dan PETERSON, Tom BROWN, Reubin KING, Eddie CHEW and James STEWART, church trustees, gave a deed of trust to Bryan Building and Loan Washington Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Brazos County Commissioners Minutes, Book F: An application was made for a new road “beginning at Washington Church” (22 Aug. 1906, p.520); the road was approved on 13 Nov. 1906 (p.523). Brazos County Deed Book 41, p.183 (1913): Frank STASNEY sold land in the Morgan RECTOR League to Josh WASHINGTON, Lee RICHARD and Monroe WASHINGTON, church trustees. The Morgan RECTOR survey includes part of College Station. Josh WASHINGTON was a trustee in the Shiloh School District (#6) in 1902 (Brazos County Commissioners Minutes Book F, pp.361-363) and in 1906 (Brazos County Commissioners Minutes Book F, p.495). Brazos County Deed Book 44, p.556 (1913): Lee RICHARD and his wife Jane RICHARD sold Josh WASHINGTON, Sam RICHARD and Silas MARTIN, church trustees, land in the Morgan RECTOR league Brazos County Deed of Trust Book O, p.205 (1913): Josh WASHINGTON, Lee RICHARD, Sam RICHARD and Silas MARTIN, church trustees, gave a deed of trust to T.R. BATTE. [In 1930, Josh WASHINGTON was a trustee of Salem Baptist Church at Wellborn.] Brazos County Mechanics Lien Book H, p.244 (1937): Sam PEARCE, Albert PEARCE, David MARTIN, Sam RICHARDSON, Roland COLUMBUS, Edward CARROLL, James CARRIE, Walter STEEN & Daniel WASHINGTON, church trustees, gave a 29 mechanics lien to G.S. PARKER Lumber Co. (James H. CARRIE, Jr., born 14 Dec. 1877, died 19 Dec. 1959, is buried at Roans Chapel Cemetery.) (The 1920 Brazos Co. Census (ED 13, sheet 13a) lists: Columbus, Roland, 31 years old, plumber at A&M College. He lived on the Bryan & Rock Prairie Road.) Brazos County Deeds of Trust Book 54, pp.35-36 (1953): L.W. FLOWERS, Roland COLUMBUS, Willie HOWARD, Sam PIERCE and Walter STEEN, church trustees, gave a deed of trust to Bryan Building and Loan