Douglas Dollarhide (1923-2008)

Image Ownership: Rolland J Curtis Collection; Los Angeles Photographers Collection Douglas Dollarhide was the first African American mayor of the city of Compton, California, and a pioneer and role model for future black politicians across the state of California. Dollarhide was born in March 1923 … Read MoreDouglas Dollarhide (1923-2008)

Yvonne Jeffries Johnson (1942- )

Image Ownership: Public Domain Yvonne Jeffries Johnson, the first African American mayor of Greensboro, North Carolina, was born on October 26, 1942 in Greensboro to Ruby Jeffries.  She graduated from Dudley High School in 1960 and Bennett College in 1964, with a BA in Psychology.  … Read MoreYvonne Jeffries Johnson (1942- )

Virgil Spencer Clarkson (1932- )

Virgil Spencer Clarkson, five-term member of the City Council of Lacey, Washington, served for three terms as Mayor of the city (2004-2005, 2006-2007, and 2012-2013). He has also served twice as Deputy Mayor in 2002-2003 and 2010-2011.  He is the first African American to hold … Read MoreVirgil Spencer Clarkson (1932- )

Walter Edward Washington (1915-2003)

Walter Edward Washington, attorney and politician, was born in Dawson, Georgia, on April 15, 1915 to Willie Mae and William L. Washington.  After his mother’s death in 1921, Washington moved with his father to Jamestown, New York.  Washington excelled academically and athletically in the public … Read MoreWalter Edward Washington (1915-2003)