The St. Luke Penny Savings Bank, founded in 1903 in Richmond, Virginia, played a vital role in the economic empowerment of the African American community in the early 20th century. The bank was established by Walker, who was inspired by the success of W. W. Browne's True Reformers bank. Browne's True Reformers Bank opened in 1888 as one of the first African American-owned banks in the United States and played an important role in the financial empowerment of African Americans. Browne's success in founding the True Reformers Bank served as an inspiration for Walker, as well as John Mitchell, Jr and his Mechanics Savings Bank.

Walker’s vision for the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank was rooted in providing African Americans with a place to save and secure loans, empowering them financially in a period of widespread discrimination. The bank became a hub of self-determination, offering much-needed services that had previously been inaccessible to many Black families.

The bank opened in St. Luke's Hall at 900 St. James Street (above) with the first day's deposits totaling $9,340.44. In 1905, it would move to 112 E Broad St, where St. Luke also operated a dry goods and department store known as the St. Luke's Emporium. By 1906, the bank had accumulated over $100,000 in deposits, a remarkable achievement that demonstrated the trust the African American community had in the institution.

In 1911, the bank opened its doors at its current location of First & Marshall Streets in a building designed by Black architect, Charles T. Russell. Due to the financial instability of the Great Depression, in 1929, the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank merged with the Second Street Savings bank to become the Consolidated Bank & Trust. In 1931, the Commercial Savings Bank would also merge into the company. It remained Black operated until 2005 when it was acquired by the Abigail Adams National Bank. It kept its name until 2011. With more acquisitions, it is now a branch of People's Bank.

Roland J. "Duke" Ealey (1914–1992) was a distinguished civil rights attorney, legislator, and community leader from Richmond, Virginia. His legal and political career spanned six decades, during which he made significant contributions to desegregation efforts, most notably leading the fight to desegregate Richmond's courtrooms. Ealey also played an important role in the national Brown v. Board of Education case, advocating for educational equality. He served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1983 until his death in 1992, representing the 70th district.  

In honor of his legacy, The Ealey Project was established to preserve and share the remarkable life and achievements of Roland J. "Duke" Ealey. This non-profit was founded in 2023 by co-founders, Sasha Finch and James Vigeant, with the mission of Revealing the Legacy of the Honorable Mr. Ealey, as well as provide a first-hand account of Jackson Ward, Richmond. At the heart of the project is the Ealey Collection, a comprehensive archive of legal and supporting documents from Ealey's career, which will be preserved and digitized in partnership with the Library of Virginia. The project also aims to create video oral histories, produce documentaries, and research historical events such as family displacement during the construction of the Interstate Highway System. Through these efforts, The Ealey Project strives to amplify African American stories often left out of mainstream narratives, enriching the American historical landscape. 

For more information, please explore The Ealey Project.

This building has been home to many things. In its early days, it was the home of the St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. This congregation was started after the Civil War as a mission of St James’s Parish and was created to serve the working-class population in the area. By 1921, the racial demographics of the area were changing as more African Americans were moving southward towards Clay & Marshall Streets, the white St. Mark’s congregation moved to its present location on Arthur Ashe Boulevard. Though during the Civil Rights struggles of the 1960s then Curate Edward Meeks “Pope” Gregory led St. Mark’s to became the first integrated Episcopal church in the city-- inviting the displaced Osgood Memorial Episcopal, of Randolph, to join us in worship in 1967 when their church was destroyed due to Urban Renewal Projects and the construction of the Richmond Expressway.

Shortly after this, the building was converted to commercial use, being the home to many Barber shops, the Miles Cleaning Co, auto garages, and other ventures--- even serving as a space for advertisements. A Clay Street Times Square!

In the 1960’s it was even home to the Richmond Coliseum Club–– which as pictured was the scene of protests due to discriminatory practices. Today, it has been reconverted back into its original use, as a church. In 1978, the building became home to the Refuge Temple Assembly of Yahweh. This congregation moved into the commercial space and remodeled the building to be near its original design.

This building was originally home to a Quaker congregation and was known as the Friend’s Meeting House. Though the Quaker movement was more popular in northern areas, such as Philadelphia, Quakers have been in Virginia since 1655. In fact, Richmond’s second house of worship after St. John’s Church was a Quaker Meeting House. Richmond Quakers advocated religious freedom, worked to make the prison system more humane and, as pacifists, usually refused to bear arms. They also pressured the General Assembly for passage of the Manumission Act of 1782. Because they opposed slavery, many Quakers migrated west early in the 19th century.

On August 19, 1907, a new church was organized as the New Baptist Church in Samaritan Hall, located at the corner of 6th and Duval Streets, with 250 members who had previously been part of Fifth Street Baptist Church. Initially, the congregation rented St. Luke's Hall at 900 St. James Street, where they worshiped until December 1909. In that year, they purchased the old Friends' Meeting House for $10,000. 

The congregation had tried to purchase this address since February 1907; but the purchase was contested by the white residents of Clay St, who filed an injunction. Nearly 50 white men of repute, including representatives from the white St Marks and Clay St Methodist, came together to try to convince the Quakers to not sell their property to a Black congregation.  

The Quaker congregation stated their price of $10,000 and agreed that they would not sell to a Black congregation without putting the property to public auction. This angered the white residents who could only rally $8,000. After 2 years of deliberation, the New Baptist Church purchased the building. In 1925, the church's name was changed to Clay Street Baptist Church.  

In 1927, the church acquired the Randolph Street Baptist Church, in the West End, which moved and was renamed the Park View Baptist Church (Riverview Baptist now occupies this building across Byrd Park). As a result of the move and the death of the beloved pastor who brought them there, the congregation adopted the name Mosby Memorial Baptist Church. However, they faced financial difficulties in meeting the payments on this building, leading them to return in 1932 to their original location at 9 E. Clay Street, where it would remain until its move to its current location on Mechanicsville Turnpike. Second Baptist Church would purchase the Randolph Street building and resides there today.

The building is now home to the Sanctuary Condominiums. 

The house, constructed in 1832 by Adolph Dill, a German descendant, blends elements of both Federal and Greek Revival architectural styles. In 1922, under the leadership of Maggie L. Walker, the first female and Black bank president in the United States, the Council of Colored Women purchased the property. It subsequently served as the home of the Council of Colored Women, Richmond Urban League and the Colored Playground & Recreation Association.

On July 27, 1925, a new library branch was opened at the Phyllis Wheatley Branch of the YWCA at 515 North 7th Street to serve the African American community. This branch, staffed by two schoolteachers, operated from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays, occupied two rooms on the second floor of the building, and was provided rent-free.  

In 1931, the library branch opened its doors at this location, and was formally named the Rosa D. Bowser Branch, in recognition of Mrs. Bowser’s significant contributions to education and the community. It opened with 1100 volumes, received 2,000 registered members, and had a children's story hour every Friday. By 1944, the library had the most complete collection of Black history, Black literature, Black art, Black periodicals, Black geography, and Black biography within the city with 3,500 registered members. It had a circulation of 11,679 volumes, higher than any other Branch in the city; by 1947, patrons were also allowed to request any book from the Main Library. It also was managed by a Black librarian. The building was then home to the Rosa D. Bowser school before housing the Black History and Cultural Center of Virginia.

Zenobia Gustava Gilpin was born in 1898 in Richmond, Virginia, to St. James Gilpin, a shoe store owner, and Cordelia A. Reese Gilpin. She was a graduate of Richmond's Armstrong High School, graduated from Howard University in 1920, and earned her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine in 1924, distinguishing herself during a time when African-American women faced significant barriers to higher education and professional careers.

After graduating from Howard Medical, Gilpin served her internship at Freedman's Hospital in Washington, D.C., before completing her post-graduate work at Long Island General Hospital. She began her medical practice in 1928, specializing in obstetrics, and quickly gained prominence as the lead obstetrician at Richmond Community Hospital. 

She broke barriers as the first Black woman on staff at the Children's Memorial Clinic. She served on Richmond’s City Lunacy Commission and worked at the Gilpin Court Clinic and the City Home, providing essential healthcare services to underserved populations. From 1936 until her death, she was secretary of the St. Philip Hospital Clinic and chaired the Richmond chapter of Planned Parenthood. During World War II, she contributed to public health by working at Hampton Institute's student clinic, organizing a nutrition program to optimize meals under rationing, and leading a fundraising concert for community support.

In addition to her clinical work, Gilpin was deeply involved in the Richmond community. She served on the board of directors of the Memorial Guidance Clinic, the Craig House, and the Phyllis Wheatley branch of the YWCA. She was a member of several professional organizations, including the Old Dominion Medical Society and the National Medical Association, and the Richmond Medical Society, where she served as president. 

Her dedication to public health extended beyond her practice. She was also actively involved with the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where she was a member. Gilpin was deeply involved in the NAACP and Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, serving as the first president of the Upsilon Omega Chapter from 1925 to 1927 and helping to establish the NAACP’s Virginia State Conference. 

Gilpin's personal life was equally intertwined with her commitment to community and family. When Clay Street was opened to Black residents, she moved her family to 9 W Clay, bringing her father and other relatives from their longtime residence at 1009 St. Peter St. The neighborhood surrounding her former address would later be named in her family’s honor. Gilpin would continue to serve this community, providing healthcare and advocating for its residents, until her death in 1948. 

She married educator, insurance man, and social worker Welton Hamlet Henderson in 1943. She passed away in 1948. She is buried at Woodland Cemetery.

Her legacy lives on through a clinic and the Zenobia's Promise Foundation, established in 2019.

Robert C. Scott, a pioneering funeral director and one of the first Black embalming license holders in Virginia (license #75), achieved significant success through his dedication to service excellence and innovative practices. He began his business on May 1, 1910, on his 21st birthday, in a small, modest location at 2220 E. Main Street. Despite limited capital, Scott's determination and attention to customer needs quickly garnered him a strong reputation. In 1910, he expanded his operations by purchasing a new property, investing $7,000 to remodel it into a three-story building with a basement, offering much more space to accommodate his growing business. This new location, with a 23-foot frontage and a depth of 150 feet, allowed Scott to increase capacity and further solidify his place in the community. In addition to his business properties, Scott also lived at location at 711 N 29th St; which he also for storage and garage space, ensuring his fleet of vehicles was readily available (Scott's firm was one of the first to adopt motorized vehicles, replacing horse-drawn carriages in the early 1910s). His business flourished due to his commitment to offering high-quality products and services, including luxury caskets, all while keeping pace with the latest trends and ensuring rapid service. 

A critical expansion in his business came with the acquisition of a property at 19 W. Clay Street, located in a strictly residential area of the city. This branch was strategically placed to serve residents in Jackson Ward and other uptown neighborhoods, as well as, and those living in smaller apartments who might not have the means or space to make satisfactory funeral arrangements. This location also catered to families who desired a more home-like environment to care for their loved ones’ remains. This was the first in a series of branches, or "Neighborhood Chapels," in various parts of the city, serving the needs of different communities. However, with urban renewal and demographic shifts, the original neighborhood chapel model became less effective.

The firm’s success was further underscored in 1936 when it was incorporated as Robert C. Scott, Inc., and, over time, evolved into its current name, Scott’s Funeral Service, always guided by its core philosophy: "Service of Highest Caliber." In 1967, the firm moved into a new, modern facility on the corner of Brookland Park Boulevard and Lamb Avenue, a 9,000-square-foot building that housed all necessary amenities, including a chapel seating over 225 people, viewing parlors, selection rooms, conference and business offices, lounges, a Hammond organ, a public address system, and a parking area for 175 cars. This modern facility marked a new chapter in the firm’s history while maintaining its commitment to providing the highest standard of service to a growing and increasingly diverse community.

Moses Forsey, Manager

Moses Forcey was born in Richmond, Virginia, and received his early education at the George Mason School. In his youth, Forcey worked as a newsboy and a porter in a hat store. He began his professional career around 1912 when he joined the employment of R. C. Scott, gradually gaining experience in the undertaking business. Over time, he became highly skilled in the field and eventually rose to the position of assistant manager and embalmer, serving as Mr. Scott's trusted right-hand man. Forcey was well-versed in all aspects of the business and was recognized for his dedication and expertise. He resided at 1221 North Twenty Sixth Street, where he remained available to receive orders and attend to his duties.

Dr. William H. Hughes was a highly regarded African American physician and community leader based in Richmond, Virginia, whose work extended far beyond the field of medicine. Born in the mid-19th century, Hughes rose to prominence through his contributions to public health and his dedication to the well-being of Richmond's Black community. He earned respect not only for his expertise in medicine but also for his active role in addressing social issues, particularly those affecting African Americans in the Jim Crow South.

A graduate of Virginia State University and attendee of the Shaw University Medical School and various European schools before interning at Howard University's Freedman's Hospital. After becoming the first surgeon of the Freedman's Hospital, he moved to Richmond where in 1915, he commissioned local Black architect, Charles T. Russell to design and build this home; with his office located at 516 N 2nd St. For his works with the Urban League, NAACP, and Virginia Interracial Commission, he was honored with an honorary law degree from his alma mater, Virginia State University. 

During the 1918 influenza pandemic, Dr. Hughes was one of the key medical figures in Richmond, guiding the city’s African American population through one of the deadliest public health crises in history. He was known for his tireless work in ensuring that his community had access to medical care when hospitals and resources were overwhelmed. His leadership during this time, as well as his work in preventing and treating various diseases, solidified his reputation as a capable and caring physician.

Dr. Hughes was also closely associated with notable African American figures in Richmond, including civil rights leader Maggie Walker. He served as Walker’s personal physician and provided care to her throughout her life. His medical practice was deeply rooted in the Jackson Ward neighborhood, a hub of African American culture and progress in Richmond. His home, a beautiful Georgian Revival-style residence on St. James Street, became not just a family residence but a symbol of the Hughes family's success and influence within the community.

In addition to his medical contributions, Dr. Hughes was a prominent member of the Black professional class in Richmond. His work was integral to the growth and development of Jackson Ward, an area that was home to many African American professionals, business owners, and activists during the early 20th century. Hughes’ legacy is immortalized not only in his contributions to medicine but also in the cultural and historical significance of his family’s home in Jackson Ward, which stands today as a testament to his life's work. The Hughes House continues to symbolize the strength, resilience, and community spirit that characterized the neighborhood during a time of profound social and racial challenges.

He was a member of St. Philip's Episcopal Church.

After his death, his home was used as the Virginia Commission for the Blind Training Center (Colored) and later was a center for the Richmond Community Association Program (R-CAP).

Founded in 1861 as a mission of St. James' Episcopal Church, it initially served a congregation of freemen, women, and indentured servants. Despite the destruction of the church structure in 1865, the congregation continued to meet in members' homes. The church's Sunday school, which flourished even during the Civil War, later became a Freedmen's School, teaching reading, writing, sewing, and music to both Black and white students. 

By 1879, St. Philip’s had its first permanent Black rector, Rev. Thomas White Cain, who helped the church grow and establish itself as an independent parish. In 1896, a brick church was constructed at St. James and Leigh Streets. The church became self-sustaining in 1920 and continued to expand its influence in the community. By 1959, St. Philip’s moved to its current location on Hanes Avenue in Barton Heights, continuing to provide spiritual services to a predominantly African American congregation of around 280 members.

Building is now home to the Miracle Church of our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith.

Weekly notes for the St. Philips Episcopal Church can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

The Leigh School building was one of the first three public schools constructed by the city. It was named after the adjacent Leigh Street, which honors Benjamin W. Leigh, a prominent Richmond jurist and United States Senator. The school opened on January 1, 1872, and initially served as a white school until June 1909, when its students were transferred to the Richmond High School at 805 E. Marshall St.

In September 1910, the building was opened to the Richmond Colored Normal & High School, under a new name, Armstrong High School– as part of the city's effort to expand secondary education for African American students. The school continued to evolve, and in September 1922, Armstrong High School relocated to a new building on Leigh Street near Adams, while the original building became an elementary school and was renamed Booker T. Washington School.

As enrollment increased over time, only the 6th and 7th grades remained in the Leigh building. In September 1956, the school was incorporated into Benjamin Graves Junior High School. In September 1968, the building began to serve a new purpose as the Richmond Trades Training Center, providing vocational education. By Fall 1973, this program was transferred to the Richmond Career Education Center, marking another phase in the building's history as an educational facility. It is now senior apartments.

List of Honor Roll Pupils can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

William Isaac Johnson, born in 1852 to enslaved parents in Charlotte County, Virginia, became one of the most prominent African American funeral directors in Richmond, Virginia. After the Civil War, Johnson attended the newly established public schools for African Americans in Richmond and completed his studies at the Richmond Colored Normal School (now Armstrong High). He initially worked as a teacher and later served as a letter carrier for twelve years. However, seeking greater opportunities, he left the steady income of public service and ventured into business with no prior formal training.

In 1886, Johnson founded his funeral home at 23 West Broad Street in Richmond. His business quickly grew, and after five years, he relocated to a larger space at 207 N. Foushee Street, in the Monroe Ward section of Richmond. While Black residents did live in Madison Ward, they were not the primary occupants of the area. Often, Black families resided in the alleyways or behind white-owned properties, living in spaces that were both physically and socially marginalized within the broader community. Though as his business was in the beginning of the neighborhood, on the south side of the commercial corridor, it was a great location for a meeting place, as it was in a central location.

By 1911, as his business continued to expand, Johnson sold the Foushee Street property for $25,000 and purchased a new building at 10 West Leigh Street, which became the headquarters of W. I. Johnson & Sons. This three-story, brick building was state-of-the-art for its time, featuring an office, show room, morgue, and a chapel on the second floor. The third floor contained lodge rooms used by various fraternal societies. The building was also fully equipped with steam heating and electricity.

Alongside his funeral business, Johnson also operated a garage, which housed a fleet of vehicles that included motor hearses, limousines, touring cars, and delivery wagons. Johnson’s firm became highly regarded for its modern equipment and impeccable business practices, drawing clients from across the city. In 1911, Johnson’s two sons joined the business, with one serving as his primary assistant. Though the other son temporarily left to serve in the U.S. Army, the firm continued to flourish under the leadership of the Johnson family.

Beyond his funeral business, Johnson was active in numerous civic and business organizations. He was a member of the Henrico Lodge of Masons, served as a director of both the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank and the Crown Savings Bank, Quartermaster of the First Battalion, Virginia Volunteers, and was a trustee of the Negro Reformatory of Virginia. His business acumen earned him numerous honors, including serving as the President of the Negro exhibit at the Jamestown Exposition. Johnson was also a member of the National Negro Business League, attending most of its meetings and traveling extensively in the process.

In 1889, Johnson married Maria Cooley, and the couple had three children. The Johnson family lived in newly built residences adjacent to the funeral home, a symbol of the family's success and upward mobility. From his modest beginnings as the child of former slaves, William Isaac Johnson's rise to prominence in the funeral business and his contributions to the African American community reflect the power of perseverance, determination, and community-focused entrepreneurship. His legacy continues to be remembered as an exemplary model of African American success in the early 20th century.

He passed on November 24, 1919 and is buried at Evergreen Cemetery.

Rosa L. Dixon Bowser (1855-1931) was a pioneering African American educator, activist, and community leader in Richmond, Virginia. Born in 1855, Bowser became one of the first Black women in the city to receive formal education from the Richmond Colored Normal and High School (predecessor of Armstrong High), a foundation that propelled her into a lifelong commitment to improving the lives of African Americans in the South.

As an educator, Bowser was dedicated to advancing educational opportunities for Black children in Richmond. She taught at the Navy Hill and Baker Schools and advocated for increased funding and resources for Black schools, ensuring that African American children had access to quality education despite the constraints of segregation. Bowser also placed a strong emphasis on vocational training, seeing it as a key way to empower youth and equip them with the skills needed to succeed in a racially divided society.

Beyond her work in education, Bowser was a committed suffragist and was deeply involved in the women’s rights movement, specifically fighting for the enfranchisement of African American women. She worked with local organizations to secure voting rights for Black women, addressing the dual challenges of racism and sexism that Black women faced in the suffrage movement. Bowser was also active in the temperance movement, advocating for the reduction of alcohol consumption due to its negative effects on families, particularly within the African American community.

Throughout her life, Bowser was a key leader in Richmond’s African American community, using her home, located at 513 North Adams Street, as a meeting place for social and political gatherings. Her house became a symbol of her activism, and it was there that she worked alongside other leaders to address issues such as racial injustice, women’s rights, and social welfare. For her dedication to her community, when 00 Clay St became the Black Branch of the Richmond Public Library, the space was named for her. The building would eventually turn into a school and then the first home of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia.

Oswald B. H. Bowser, born in Richmond on August 10, 1880, was a prominent African American physician and community leader. He was the son of James H. Bowser, a long-time postal worker, and Rosa Dixon Bowser. Dr. Bowser graduated from the Richmond Colored Normal and High School and the Howard University Medical School in 1901. He began his medical practice in Richmond shortly after earning his M.D. degree. Throughout his career, he was actively involved in various professional organizations, including the Old Dominion Medical Associations, the National Medical Association, and the Richmond Medical Society, where he served as president. He was also a visiting physician at Richmond Hospital and volunteered as a First Lieutenant in the Medical Reserve Corps during World War I.

In addition to his medical work, Dr. Bowser contributed to his community through his membership in several civic and fraternal organizations, including the First African Baptist Church, the Masons, the Odd Fellows, and the NAACP. He served as a medical examiner for the Odd Fellows as well as the Southern Mutual Aid Society. He was a father of the hospital movement, being one of the organizers of the Richmond Community Hospital.

Dr. Bowser was twice married, first to Lena Logan Jasper, a teacher who passed away shortly after their marriage, leaving him with one son, James Oswald Bowser. He later married Alice Estelle Smith, a well-known public school teacher and elocutionist. He practiced medicine out of his family home at 513 N Adams St. His son, Dr. Barrington H. Bowser, Richmond's first Black pediatrician, also held his practice at that address.

He spent his last hours in the care of others and in meetings with hospital groups. At his death, he had served the Richmond community for over 30 years. He laid in state at First African Baptist.

Barrington H. Bowser, was the son of Dr. Oswald B. H. Bowser, and grandson of Mrs. Rosa D. Bowser. His is affectionately known to many Richmonders as he was the first Black pediatrician, as well as the first Black pediatrician to work in the Richmond Public Schools. 

He attended Virginia Union University and received his medical degree from Howard University in 1944. After interning at the Homer G. Philips Hospital in St. Louis, he returned to Richmond in 1948. He practiced out of his family's home at 513 N. Adams Street, where his father had also practiced. 

From 1948 to 1966, he served as assistant to the medical director of the Richmond Public Schools. In the early, 1950's, he served as chief of staff and chief of pediatrics at the Richmond Community Hospital on Overbrook Rd. He was also on the staff of the Richmond Memorial Hospital. He was also the chairman of the Negro Division of the March of Dimes, which held meetings at the Leigh St YMCA.

He was a member of the Richmond Medical Society, the Old Dominion Medical Society, the Richmond Academy of Science, the Richmond Pediatric Society, the National and American medical associations, Chi Delta Mu, and Alpha Phi Alpha. He was also a member and vestryman of the St. Philip's Episcopal Church .

His was married to McEva Roach Bowser, an educator, consultant, and curriculum specialist in the Richmond Public School System and a former School Board member.

The Cooke family funeral home was established in Richmond, Virginia in 1868 by Henry Cooke. The first location, at 1547 E Broad Street, in Rutherford's Row. In 1895, Henry’s son, Cornelius J. Cooke, expanded the operation with a second branch at 305 W Broad Street. After Henry's death, Cornelius and his brother Jacob A. Cooke continued the business, relocating operations to 528 N. Adams Street. The brothers were known for their swift service, with their residence located directly above the funeral home, ensuring round-the-clock attention to clients' needs.

The Cooke funeral home garnered attention in 1900 after the loss of a black hearse horse, a critical element for their business operations. In response, prominent African American figures such as Maggie L. Walker petitioned the public to raise funds for a replacement horse. The passing of Cornelius J. Cooke in 1902 marked the end of an era for the Richmond location, and Jacob A. Cooke, alongside his brother W. S. Cooke, moved to Newport News, Virginia. There, they established the Cooke Brothers Funeral Home, which operated into the 1920s. The Cooke family’s business not only provided essential funeral services but also reflected the resilience and resourcefulness of African American entrepreneurs during the post-Reconstruction era.

Armstrong High School, originally known as the Richmond Colored Normal & High School, was founded in 1865 by the Freedman’s Bureau. Initially, classes were held in makeshift spaces, including churches and Dill’s Bakery, until Rabza Morse Manley, the school’s first superintendent, raised funds for a permanent building. This effort resulted in the construction of the first school building at Sixth and Duval Streets, dedicated in 1867. The building was funded in part by donations from African American mechanics and laborers, and it served the school until 1957, when it was demolished for the construction of the Richmond-Petersburg Turnpike.

As enrollment grew, the original building became overcrowded, prompting Manley and others to seek additional funds for a larger facility. The school relocated to a new site at 12th and Clay Streets, where it continued to expand. Initially founded as a Normal School, Armstrong shifted its focus over time, transitioning from teacher training to a more traditional high school curriculum by 1906. The school’s curriculum evolved to include a four-year high school program, with one year of teacher training, adapting to the needs of the community and fostering educational growth for generations of students. Some of its first graduates included Rosa D. Bowser, A.V. Norrell, J. Andrew Bowler, D. Webster Davis, Maggie L. Walker, Dr. Sarah G. Jones, and Dr. Miles B. Jones.

After the building at 12th and Leigh Streets was condemned in 1908, the school relocated to the former Leigh School, and the name was changed to Armstrong in 1909 to honor General Samuel D. Armstrong, founder of Hampton Institute. By 1915, the all-white faculty was replaced with colored teachers, reportedly five men and ten women.

The school experienced rapid growth between 1915 and 1920, leading to the expansion of facilities, including the completion of a five-room annex in 1920 for specialized classes such as domestic science and shop work. In 1923, Armstrong moved to a new, modern building with 21 classrooms, laboratories, a library, a 930-seat auditorium, and the first lunchroom in a colored school; but overcrowding remained a problem, necessitating further expansions in the following years. By 1928, a 21-room addition was completed, and in 1935, the auto mechanics shop was enlarged with federal funding.

Despite the opening of a second high school, Maggie L. Walker, in 1938, Armstrong continued to face overcrowding, leading to the use of double shifts and additional facilities, including the Monroe Center and gymnasium at the old Monroe School. In 1952, Armstrong relocated to a new site on Church Hill, where a new building with 42 classrooms and expanded facilities allowed for a broader curriculum. However, overcrowding persisted.

Upon Armstrong's Church Hill opening, the Leigh Street building became the Benjamin A. Graves Junior High. Named after Benjamin A. Graves, a respected citizen and teacher of the old Valley School. For 41 years, the Armstrong-Walker Football Classic was an annual event on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. For 41 years, the Armstrong-Walker Football Classic was an annual event on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. 

Maggie L. Walker High School and Armstrong High School had a longstanding rivalry, fueled by differing reputations. Armstrong was known for its academic focus, issuing diplomas with an academic field of study, while Maggie Walker provided vocational diplomas. This distinction contributed to their fierce football rivalry, as they were the only two city schools able to compete against each other. The rivalry continued until the opening of a new Armstrong High School in 1952, which placed all Richmond high schools on equal academic footing.

In 2004, Armstrong High (Church Hill) was consolidated with John F. Kennedy High School to form the New Armstrong, marking the end of the school's long history as an independent institution.

Armstrong High School played a pivotal role in the African American community of Richmond, providing a space for education and social mobility at a time when opportunities for Black students were limited. As the first accredited high school for African Americans in the city, it offered generations of students the chance to pursue secondary education, often in the face of significant social and racial barriers. The school not only educated its students but also served as a cultural and community hub, with events like the Armstrong-Walker Football Classic becoming annual traditions. Through its programs and expansion, Armstrong helped shape the intellectual and social fabric of Richmond's African American community, fostering leadership and pride for decades.

List of Honor Roll Pupils can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

The Monroe School building in Richmond, Virginia, holds a distinguished place in American history as the first public school for African American students in the nation to be designated a historic landmark. Originally constructed as an armory for African American troops during the Spanish-American War, it was named after James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States, in recognition of the nearby Monroe Street. After the war, the building was transferred to the Richmond School Board, which repurposed it as an elementary school for African American children.

In 1927, the Monroe School became home to the Armstrong Normal Department, a program dedicated to training African American teachers. This department continued to operate in the building until it was abolished in 1933. In 1936, Katherine L. Johnson was appointed principal. Afterward, Monroe continued to serve as an elementary school until 1940, when students were moved to Baker School. From that point onward, the building served as an annex to Armstrong High School and, later, to Benjamin Graves Junior High School beginning in 1952.

In addition to its educational significance, the Monroe building also played a role in World War II, when a gymnasium was added to the structure. During the war, African American troops used this gymnasium, further highlighting the building’s connection to both military history and African American civic life.

In 2016, the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia found its new home in the historic Leigh Street Armory, a building with its own complex and significant history. The Leigh Street Armory, which had suffered from neglect, a devastating fire, and abandonment, was declared surplus property by the city in 1981, remaining padlocked until 2002. However, with the help of a grant from Save America’s Treasures, a national preservation program, the armory underwent a major rehabilitation. The exterior brickwork was restored, new floors and a roof were installed, and the building was revived to serve as a cultural center. 

List of Honor Roll Pupils can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

Ebenezer Baptist Church, founded in 1856, has a rich and storied history rooted in the African American experience in Richmond, Virginia. It began as the Third African Baptist Church, created by members of the First African Baptist Church who sought to establish a new congregation for people of color. With the leadership of Rev. Dr. Robert Ryland, the committee found a location at the corner of Leigh and Judah Streets, a site chosen after a member, Mr. Benjamin Harris, shared a prophetic vision. The church's first building was constructed in 1858, and its dedication marked the beginning of a vibrant community of worship. The church grew steadily, and by the end of the Civil War, it was firmly rooted in the religious and social fabric of the community. 

In 1902, Rev. Dr. William H. Stokes became pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, a position he held for over two decades, transforming the congregation and its influence. Under his leadership, Ebenezer saw tremendous spiritual growth, with hundreds of baptisms and conversions. Dr. Stokes was deeply committed to both spiritual and educational development, which he viewed as integral to the church’s mission. He became the editor of the Lott Carey Herald, a publication dedicated to missionary work, and worked to expand the church's outreach efforts. His efforts were instrumental in establishing Ebenezer as a center of not only spiritual life but also community engagement. Dr. Stokes' vision for Ebenezer helped the church become a beacon of hope for African Americans in Richmond during a time of significant social and political change.

Community outreach was a hallmark of Ebenezer Baptist Church throughout its history, and Rev. Stokes’ leadership laid the groundwork for many of the church's long-standing programs and services. In addition to religious services, the church began offering educational programs, including a kindergarten in Richmond, organized by Mrs. Druscilla Gilpin. Ebenezer also became home to several other key organizations, such as the Women’s Missionary and Educational Circle, the Boy Scouts of America, and the Campfire Girls. During his tenure, the church grew into a hub for social activism and community service, providing a space for both religious and educational growth for African Americans in Richmond. The church’s influence extended beyond its walls, contributing to the development of the local community and supporting important causes like the creation of the YMCA and the Baptist Young Peoples Union.

Today, Ebenezer Baptist Church continues to serve as a vital institution in the Richmond community, carrying forward the legacy of its founders and past leaders like Rev. Stokes. The church’s commitment to outreach and community service remains strong, with programs that address the spiritual, educational, and social needs of its congregation and the wider community. The church has also undergone significant renovations, including the removal of its steeple in the early 20th century and a major building project that began in 1990. 

Weekly notes for the organization can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

John H. Braxton was a Richmond Real Estate Agent, Private Banker and Broker with loans negotiated on real estate and interest allowed on deposits, property manager, notary, insurance man and bondsman.

Read Article Below.

Richmond Planet, January 25, 1896

Quite a sensation in society circles was caused last Wednesday, 22nd inst. by the arrest of Mr. John H. Braxton, Assistant Cashier of the Savings Bank U. O. True Reformers upon the charge of seducing under promise of marriage Miss Mary D. Brown, daughter of ex-squire John F. Brown.

Mr. Braxton stands well in Sunday School circles. Mr. Brown, father of the complainant is one of the leading officers of True Reformers and has been working in the field for the organization.

WAS TO HAVE MARRIED.

Mr. Braxton it is said was to have married the chief of the Regalia Department of the True Reformers on Thursday last. Miss Mary D. Brown was at one time also employed at the True Reformers offices.

The case was called in the Police Court, Thursday morning, 23d inst. and it was found that Mrs. John F. Brown, being indisposed, was unable to be present.

DELAY REQUESTED.

Giles B. Jackson, Esq., counsel for young Braxton, said that his associate D. C. Richardson Esq., was also indisposed and he agreed to a postponement until Tuesday next. His client had not run away and was present and he hoped that his Honor would make the bail as light as possible.

"If he had run away," said the judge, I would have had that building on 2nd St. I couldn’t get the money but the building. Browne's got all the money, so the Planet says, and keeps on saying it, but I'd get the building. I am not accepting all that the Planet says but Browne's got the money."

This was said in Justice Crutchfleld's inimitable style and created much amusement. Miss Mary D. Brown, tall and dignifying although embarrassed put in appearance and her father was also present. Barton H. Wise. Esq, appeared as her counsel. The ease was continued until Wednesday 29th inst.

ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS BAIL.

Bail was allowed in the sum of one thousand dollars with Mr. D. J. Farrar and Mr. R. T. Hill as sureties.

Counsel for Mr. Braxton have two material witnesses which they propose to introduce although they were not in court Thursday.

It is understood that Rev. W. W. Browne wanted the matter compromised with Miss Brown, but he declined so to do so, saying that he had not promised to marry her. This angered the divine and he would have nothing more to do with the matter and ordered his discharge from the Bank.

Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, born Luther Robinson on May 25, 1878, in Richmond, Virginia, was a tap dancer, actor, and singer. He became the highest-paid Black entertainer in the U.S. during the first half of the 20th century. His career spanned vaudeville, Broadway, film, radio, and television, with his most famous roles being his dancing with Shirley Temple in the 1930s and starring in Stormy Weather (1943), loosely based on his life. 

Raised in Richmond's Jackson Ward, Robinson's parents died when he was young, and he was raised by his grandmother, Bedelia Robinson, a former enslaved woman. He began dancing at five, performing in local beer gardens and theaters for small change. His break came when a promoter saw him performing outside the Globe Theater and offered him a role in a minstrel show. 

By 12, Robinson ran away to Washington, D.C., where he worked odd jobs and briefly as a jockey. He returned to show business in 1891, touring with a troupe and performing as a pickaninny. Robinson later teamed up with Al Jolson and performed for pennies before joining the U.S. Army during the Spanish-American War. A gunshot wound cut his service short, but he would go on to become a legendary figure in American entertainment. 

The Astoria Beneficial Club, Inc., founded on August 8, 1901 by 22 men, is a significant institution in Richmond’s history, rooted in values of religious faith, moral integrity, intellectual growth, and civic responsibility. Its founders envisioned a society where barriers to full citizenship could be dismantled through patience, strategic planning, and timely action. This vision guided the club’s efforts in championing civil rights, advocating for equal opportunities, and addressing issues of segregation. Over the years, Astoria has inspired countless individuals to strive for higher standards in morality, intellect, and civic engagement, thus earning its place as a pivotal force in the city’s progress.

The club’s accomplishments reflect its commitment to both civil rights and community betterment. Astoria played a key role in securing employment opportunities for African Americans in the Richmond City workforce, advocating for equal pay for public school teachers, supporting voter rights, and facilitating the inclusion of African American officers in the Richmond Police Department. In addition to its civil rights efforts, the club has contributed to education and charitable causes, awarding annual scholarships, supporting organizations like the NAACP and the United Negro College Fund, and erecting public monuments such as the Bill "Bojangles" Robinson statue. Furthermore, Astoria continues to engage in meaningful community projects, including contributions to Richmond Community Hospital and local landmarks. Through initiatives like the Parental Assistance Leadership Service (PALS) Program, the club fosters youth development, mentoring students to become engaged, responsible citizens and future leaders.

Some influential members of this society include Benjamin A. Graves and Ethel T. Overby.

William Washington Browne (1849–1897) was a significant African American leader, businessman, and founder of the Grand United Order of True Reformers, which aimed to promote financial independence and self-sufficiency within the African American community. Born in Chatham, Virginia, Browne was raised in an era marked by racial discrimination and economic hardship for African Americans, yet he emerged as one of the leading figures in the effort to create institutions that could empower Black families economically.

Started as an auxiliary of the segregated Grand Lodge of Good Templars, the Grand United Order of True Reformers was a fraternal society designed to provide insurance, savings, and burial benefits to African Americans. The group also aimed to encourage economic independence, educational opportunities, social uplift, and the financial literacy of its members. Its broader goals were to strengthen the economic position of African Americans by providing access to financial services, which were largely unavailable to Black people in the segregated South. Browne sought to address the financial challenges faced by African Americans, who were often excluded from mainstream banks and financial systems. His first response was to establish the Mutual Benefit and Relief Plan of the United Order of True Reformers. He then established the Savings Bank of the Grand Fountain United Order of True Reformers in 1888. 

Browne’s vision for True Reformers was not just financial; it was also deeply rooted in the idea of mutual aid and collective progress. The society's activities were grounded in principles of cooperation, self-reliance, and racial pride. Browne believed that economic empowerment and access to resources would lead to social and political equality for African Americans, who were denied basic services and opportunities because of their race. So this organization created them, through social programs, such as the Rosebud Club for children, vocational training, and through the many business efforts of the organization. For example, by 1900, the list of property and businesses associated with the organization included their headquarters and bank, fourteen halls, seven dwellings, three farms, a stable, a store, a hotel, a retirement home, restaurants, and a newspaper throughout the nation.

In 1888, Browne established the Savings Bank of the Grand Fountain United Order of True Reformers in Richmond, Virginia, the first bank in the United States owned and operated by African Americans. This bank was designed to provide African Americans with a safe place to save and invest money, offering services such as savings accounts, loans, and financial advice. The establishment of the bank was a landmark achievement, as it created an institution that could provide the financial services essential to improving the economic standing of the Black community in the region. It also served as a symbol of the capacity of African Americans to organize and build institutions that could thrive in an oppressive environment.

The True Reformers Bank quickly became a key institution for African Americans in Richmond, providing financial services that were previously unavailable to them. It helped African American families build savings and gain access to credit, which was critical for economic mobility. At its peak, the bank had a large membership, and its influence extended beyond Richmond, contributing to the creation of other Black-owned banks in the South.

The bank first operated in Browne's home before the building of the True Reformers Hall.

Built in 1793, this building was originally located at 612 N 3rd St. It was moved in 2004 to save it from demolition. It is an example of a middle-class architecture and lifestyle of the 19th century. 

Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church holds a distinguished place in history as the home of Reverend John Jasper, one of the most renowned African American preachers of the 19th century. Reverend Jasper, along with several organizers, established the church in 1867 in a former Confederate horse stable on Brown’s Island. By 1869, the congregation relocated to its current site at 14 Duval Street, the former Duval Street Presbyterian, where the present sanctuary was constructed in the late 1880s. The church’s construction was led by George W. Boyd, a prominent African American contractor regarded as one of Richmond's most skilled builders of the late 19th century.

Reverend Jasper gained national fame for his iconic sermon, "De Sun Do Move," first preached in 1871. He delivered this sermon over 250 times across multiple states and even before the Virginia state legislature, earning widespread acclaim. Reverend Jasper's leadership and legacy continued to shape the church until his passing in 1901. 

In 1925, the church was remodeled and extended by architect, Charles T. Russell.

Today, Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church is recognized as a historic landmark, listed on both state and national historic registries, reflecting its cultural and historical significance in Richmond and beyond.

Weekly notes for the organization can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

John Jasper (1812-1901) was an influential Baptist minister and public speaker who rose from enslavement to become a prominent figure in post-Civil War Virginia. Born into slavery on July 4, 1812, in Fluvanna County, Virginia, Jasper was the youngest of 24 children. His father, Philip, was a well-known Baptist preacher, and his mother, Tina, worked as a slave on the Peachy Estate. After his father’s death, Jasper was hired out to various individuals and eventually inherited by John Blair Peachy, who intended to take him to Louisiana. However, upon Peachy’s death, Jasper was returned to Richmond, where he experienced a profound religious conversion in 1839, which led him to dedicate his life to preaching the gospel. Through the help of another slave, Jasper learned to read and write, enabling him to study the Bible and further his religious education.

After emancipation, Jasper founded the Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church in Richmond, which grew to 2,500 members by 1887. The church became a religious and social hub for the African-American community in Jackson Ward. Jasper’s dynamic preaching style and vivid oratory made him a sought-after speaker across the United States and internationally, with his most famous sermon, The Sun Do Move, gaining widespread attention. In this sermon, Jasper argued that the sun circled a flat Earth, a view based on his interpretation of the Bible. Despite its conflict with modern scientific understanding, Jasper preached this sermon 273 times across the U.S. and in London and Paris, cementing his reputation as a powerful and unique voice in Christian preaching.

John Jasper's legacy endures as a respected leader within both the African-American and Southern Baptist communities. He continued preaching until shortly before his death in 1901 at the age of 88. He was buried at the Barton Heights Cemetery before being reinterred at Woodland Cemetery.

He lived at 1112 St James St.

S. J. Gilpin was born on December 30, 1850, in Richmond, Virginia, to free parents. He received his early education under the tutelage of Miss Elizabeth McCannon for approximately 18 months, after which he attended the public schools following the evacuation of the city. Gilpin was trained in the trade of shoemaking by his father and, in 1873, opened his own shoe shop, where he remained for nearly 14 years.

In the late 1880s, Gilpin entered into a partnership with Mr. T. A. Miles, establishing the firm of Miles and Gilpin. However, around 1889, he withdrew from the partnership and soon thereafter established his own business at 506 E. Broad Street, where he continues to operate to the present day. Over the years, Gilpin has developed one of the largest shoe establishments owned by African Americans in the United States. His success in securing a location on one of the city’s principal thoroughfares, despite the prevailing racial prejudices of the time, is a testament to his entrepreneurial skill and perseverance.

In 1875, Gilpin married Cordelia A. Reese, and the couple raised nine children. They include C. Bernard, Alfred, David,  Joseph S. , a U.S. Postal Service clerk– who resided at 1005 St. Peter Street, across the street from his father's residence at 1009 St. Peter Street, George Mason School teacher and counselor at Maggie Walker High, Katie Gilpin Henderson (wife of Thomas H. Henderson), Moore Street, Booker T. Washington, and Monroe School teacher, Emily Gilpin Chambers, Nellie, and physician, Dr. Zenobia Gilpin. (Actor Charles Sidney Gilpin was a relative as well.)

A man of few words, Gilpin was nevertheless known for his exceptional reliability and integrity in all of his business dealings. His enterprise had grown to become both sustainable and profitable, and he was widely regarded for his quiet, unassuming nature and his commitment to the highest standards of professionalism. With a stock valued at $3,000, Gilpin remained dedicated to the success of his business, which has earned him a distinguished standing in the community. His reputation for honesty and diligence has garnered him a broad network of loyal customers and admirers. As he contributed to the economic and social fabric of the community, his life and career served as a model of determination, business acumen, and civic responsibility. As such, he was on the Board of Directors of the Richmond Beneficial and Insurance Co.

St. Luke Hall in Richmond, Virginia, stands as a powerful testament to the legacy of the Independent Order of St. Luke, an African American fraternal organization founded in 1867. St. Luke, like other fraternal organizations at the time such as the True Reformers or the Knights of Pythias, was integral to the broader movement of economic and social empowerment for African Americans, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This initiative was deeply tied to the Walker's work, who played a key role in shaping the organization’s mission and its activities, especially in promoting financial literacy, self-reliance, and racial uplift.

The Independent Order of St. Luke was established with the dual purpose of providing mutual aid and support to African American families while promoting the broader goals of economic independence and social justice. One of its key missions was to offer insurance and burial services to African Americans, who often struggled to gain access to such services in mainstream society. The organization also focused on providing financial education, helping African Americans build wealth and secure their futures in a racially segregated society; as well as vocational training, and community uplift. Under Walker’s leadership, the organization grew rapidly, with a focus on helping members become financially independent and develop a sense of community solidarity.

St. Luke Hall, constructed in 1889, became the physical and symbolic center of these efforts. It was designed not only as a meeting space for St. Luke, but also as a community hub where African Americans could gather for educational programs, social events, and community-building activities. The hall hosted numerous initiatives aimed at improving the financial and educational status of African Americans, including classes on financial literacy, leadership training, and opportunities for social advancement. After a series of renovations, the hall still stands.

This was not the only hall within the city. Another hall was located in Richmond's East End at 810 N 31st St, 

Richmond News Leader, Oct 17, 1949

Baker School, named after the adjacent street, was one of the first public schools built by the City of Richmond, opening on December 1, 1871. Initially serving grades 1 through 9, the school later focused on Junior Primary grades 5 or 6. In 1908-09, when the Colored Normal School's building was condemned, Baker temporarily housed the Normal School, and its students attended Moore School in the afternoons. Overcrowding led to part-time classes by 1911-12, and an annex was built in 1914 to accommodate growing enrollment.

In 1914, it was the site of the first Black public kindergarten in Richmond, which opened in 1914. This program was established with assistance from the National Kindergarten Association, which funded the teacher’s salary in exchange for proper facilities and materials. By the following year, the kindergarten was so popular it had to operate on a morning-afternoon shift schedule. Henrietta French, a teacher from Chicago, was hired to lead the program, residing in the nearby home of  Jospeh S. Gilpin, at 1009 St Peter St, before moving to the Carter residence at 808 St James St in 1918. Her tenure may have ended due to the school closures during the 1918 Spanish Flu epidemic.

During the 1918 flu epidemic, the school was converted into a hospital for African American patients. A group of 22 Black physicians, including Dr. William H. Hughes, volunteered to organize and lead medical care at the Baker facility. These physicians provided critical care, treating flu victims at a time when hospitals were overwhelmed, and resources were stretched thin. The city’s public schools were closed from October 4 to November 6, 1918, to help curb the spread of the flu, leading to lost instructional time. To make up for this, the school board extended the school year and shortened vacations.

The original building, described as an "antiquated fire trap," was demolished in 1939 to make way for a new, modern 28-classroom school, which opened in September 1940. This new facility, built with federal assistance, was described as the most modern elementary school unit in Richmond, equipped with advanced features like proper bathrooms, cafeteria, 40 modern classrooms, a combined auditorium and playroom, a home economics room, a library with 4,000 books, a nurse's office, and space for 1,200 students. The facility became one of the most advanced elementary schools in Richmond, replacing both the old Baker and Monroe School, with 400 students transferred from Monroe. In 1942, Katherine L. Johnson became principal.

Over the years, Baker’s enrollment fluctuated due to the construction of nearby housing projects and the Richmond-Petersburg Turnpike. Under the city's educational reorganization, Baker was paired with Southampton under Plan III, and in the late 1970s, it temporarily hosted the Norrell School program. The school ceased operations as an elementary school in June 1979 and was renamed in honor of Katherine L. Johnson, a former principal.

List of Honor Roll Pupils can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

Miles Berkley Jones was a distinguished African American physician and educator in Richmond, Virginia. After graduating from Richmond Colored Normal and High School, predecessor of Armstrong High, he began his professional career at the Baker School in the Richmond Public School system alongside A. V. Norrell, Rosa D. Bowser, D. Webster Davis, and his future wife, Sarah Garland Boyd. Both later pursued medical degrees at Howard University, with Dr. Miles B. Jones graduating in 1892 and Dr. Sarah Garland Jones in 1893.

Upon graduation, Sarah became the first African American woman licensed to practice medicine in Virginia. Her early medical career focused on improving healthcare access for underserved African American communities, particularly for women and children for whom she operated a one-hour free daily clinic.

The Joneses returned to Richmond and established a joint medical practice in Jackson Ward. Their commitment to improving healthcare access for the Black community led them to co-found the Richmond Hospital Association in 1903, which later became Richmond Community Hospital. This institution provided essential medical services to African Americans during an era of segregation and limited access to quality healthcare.

In addition to her medical career, Sarah was a dedicated activist and organizer. She lectured at the Woman’s Central League, which aimed to improve public health and advance racial equity. Her involvement in organizations like the Medical and Chirurgical Society of Richmond highlighted her commitment to creating opportunities for African American physicians and improving healthcare infrastructure. Miles was also active in civic affairs and worked to advance the social and economic status of African Americans in Richmond. His contributions to medicine and community service have left a lasting impact on the city and its residents.

Sarah passed in 1907. After her death, Miles married her sister, also a doctor, Dr. Maria J. Jones.

In 1922, for her efforts and achievements, when Richmond Hospital changed locations the hospital building was named in her honor as the Sarah G. Jones Memorial Hospital, Medical College and Training School for Nurses before changing after 1945 to Richmond Community Hospital. She is also the namesake of Bon Secours' new Sarah Garland Jones Center.

Richmond Community Hospital holds a significant place in Richmond's Black history as a pioneering institution that addressed systemic inequities in healthcare access for African Americans. Founded in 1903 by Dr. Sarah Garland Boyd Jones and Dr. Miles B. Jones, along with other notable Black physicians, the hospital emerged as a response to the exclusionary practices of white-dominated medical facilities. Initially located in a 50-bed facility in Jackson Ward, a historically Black neighborhood, the hospital was created to provide African American patients with quality care and to train Black medical professionals in an era of pervasive segregation.

By the mid-20th century, Richmond Community Hospital had moved to a new address in the city's Northside and continued to be an essential institution in the Black community, both as a medical center and a symbol of self-sufficiency and resilience. Despite its importance, financial challenges and systemic discrimination in healthcare funding posed persistent obstacles. In 1980, the hospital relocated to a larger, state-of-the-art facility in the city’s East End to continue its mission of serving underserved populations. Eventually, to secure its future, it became part of Bon Secours Health System, ensuring the continuation of its legacy.

Skipwith-Roper Cottage in Jackson Ward and today in Goochland, PictureThe Skipwith-Roper Cottage was originally built around 1793 by Abraham Peyton Skipwith, is a significant historical site. Skipwith, believed to be the first Black person to own property in the area, constructed the gambrel-roofed cottage after purchasing his freedom from enslavement. He built the home at 400 W. Duval St., a site that would later become part of the path for Interstate 95. In the 1950s, when the building was slated for demolition, Mary Ross Scott Reed saved it and transported it to her farm in Goochland County, where it still stands today. 

In 2020, the JXN Project, a nonprofit founded by sisters Enjoli and Sesha Joi Moon, was established with the mission of recontextualizing the history of the neighborhood. The JXN Project is working to rebuild the Skipwith-Roper Cottage at 303 Bates St., near Gilpin Court. The reconstruction will create a museum dedicated to the history of the cottage and the African American experience in Richmond. 

The JXN Haus, which will include the reconstructed cottage, will also feature a three-story community center. The center will house offices, a research lab, a library, coworking spaces, and a second-floor gathering space. Designed by the local architecture firm Baskervill, the project is set to cost nearly $6 million, with support from grants, including $1.5 million from the Mellon Foundation. Groundbreaking for the facility occurred in 2022, with plans for the site to open in 2026. 

This project is a part of efforts to restore and preserve the area's history, telling untold stories and fostering contemporary connections through reparative historic preservation and restorative storytelling. 

There are three cemeteries adjacent to these properties, the Shockoe Hill Cemetery, the Hebrew Cemetery, and the Shockoe Hill African Burial Grounds. The Shockoe Hill Cemetery is full of prominent Richmonders of the era, such as Chief Justice John Marshall, the Allans, foster parents of Edgar Allan Poe, and Elizabeth Van Lew. A segregated cemetery from its conception, there are only two Black internments, Lucy Taylor and Lucy Armstead.

The Hebrew Cemetery is the oldest continuous Hebrew Cemetery in the southland. Occupying 8.4 acres today, its graves include the capital area’s leading Jewish merchants, civic leaders, rabbis and their families, as well as a significant number of German, Dutch, and Polish Jewish immigrants from the mid-19th century, including the graves of 30 Confederate Jewish soldiers.  

On the Eastern wall of both cemeteries was the Shockoe Hill African Burial Ground. This forgotten cemetery was active from its opening in February 1816 until its closure by the city due to overcrowded conditions in June 1879. Throughout its years of active operation, it was a main target for body snatching by and for the medical colleges, especially the Medical College of Virginia and the University of Virginia. 

All its grave markers were removed. It was rendered unrecognizable, removed from maps, and almost completely forgotten. Its grounds were divided up, most were sold and others gifted to new owners. In addition, it has had roads, a railway, and the highway run through it grounds. An old Sunoco gas station sits upon a portion of its original 2 acres, along with a billboard; while other parts lie beneath Interstate 64, 4th St., 5th St., 7th St., Hospital St., and the railroad tracks. 

In 1884, Bishop John Keane began to hold masses for Richmond's black population, stating these parishonners "behaved in a most respectful manner and seemed greatly pleased with the singing, prayers, and instructions. I intend to devote my own exertions to it whenever I am in Richmond. May God grant fruit to our labors.” The congregation initially met in the basement of the all-white St Peter's Church starting in 1879, growing to 50 members. 

In 1884, Bishop Keane purchased the property on the 700 block of North 1st St, and founded Saint Joseph, the first known Catholic congregation for African Americans in Virginia. From 1904 to 1968, the site housed several institutions, including the Franciscan convent , Saint Mary's (whose building still stands), a two-room school for grades K-12 later rebuilt and named the Van de Vyver School, a parish house, the Holy Innocents Asylum, a trade school, and a two-year business college, the Van de Vyver Institute. In 1969, upon formal integration of the diocese, Bishop John J. Russell officially closed both the church and the school and asked Black parishioners to disperse themselves within white congregations.

Weekly notes for the organization can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

Van de Vyver Catholic School, founded by Bishop Keane in 1887, became a cornerstone of Black education in Richmond, Virginia, and played a vital role in the local African American community for over seven decades. Initially starting as St. Francis Catholic School, the institution was established to fill the educational gap left by Richmond's segregated public school system, which often left Black children without adequate schooling options. The school expanded its offerings over time, becoming one of the largest private institutions for Black students in Richmond. It provided a comprehensive education, offering kindergarten through high school courses in subjects ranging from traditional academics like reading, writing, and arithmetic, to vocational training in trades such as dressmaking, tailoring, and auto mechanics.

However, the Van de Vyver School, along with St. Joseph's Catholic Church, was closed in 1969 as part of the broader process of integration during the Civil Rights Movement. The Catholic Diocese of Richmond, in an effort to integrate local schools, closed Black parishes and schools, encouraging African American families to attend predominantly white parishes and schools. This decision was painful for many in the community, as it marked the end of a cherished institution that had been central to their lives

The Richmond Beneficial Insurance Company, known as "The Old Reliable," was managed by a distinguished group of individuals whose leadership and integrity guided the company’s operations. The company’s funds were carefully invested in prime real estate and securely deposited in reputable local banks, ensuring its financial stability. The President of the company was Reverend W. F. Graham, D.D., pastor of the Fifth Street Baptist Church. (In 1902, Graham went on to establish the American Beneficial Insurance Company.) Under his leadership, the company flourished, benefiting from Graham's experience as a pastor, editor, and director of various institutions. The management team also included key figures such as Deacon C.H. A. Strother, a thoughtful and deliberate director, and Deacon Anderson Knox, a highly regarded business figure known for his prudent judgment.

The company’s management further included Professor John T. Taylor, the efficient General Secretary and Manager, who demonstrated unwavering commitment to the company’s success. Taylor was a prominent member of the Second Baptist Church and held significant leadership roles within the Pythian and Odd Fellows organizations. Vice President Edward F. Johnson and Cashier J.J. Carter brought their strong business acumen and careful financial stewardship to the company, ensuring its long-term stability. Other notable figures in the company’s leadership included B.H. Peyton, the General Inspector and a highly respected young businessman, and Deacon A.T. Grimes, the Treasurer, who had built a successful career from humble beginnings.

The company's Board of Managers also benefited from the expertise of Auditor Archer B. Hawkins, whose sharp business sense and experience with the C&O Railroad added to the company’s strong oversight. Finally, S.J. Gilpin, a successful shoe dealer and long-time director, contributed to the company’s growth with his extensive experience in business management and community involvement. Collectively, these individuals played an essential role in the company’s continued success, ensuring its financial health and commitment to the community.

The Easley Ice Cream Company, initially operated by Paul C. Easley and subsequently by his widow after his passing, produced ice cream using steam power. The company prepared fresh batches of ice cream daily, throughout both the winter and summer months.

The building was also home to the Richmond Business College run by Prof. Charles Mitchell.

Clarence Peyton Hayes, commonly known as C. P. Hayes, was born in Richmond, Virginia, to Arthur Hayes, a prominent early undertaker in the state. He received his education through Richmond Public Schools and Virginia Union University before assuming control of his father’s business on January 7, 1916. Despite facing significant setbacks during his two-year service in the military, Hayes demonstrated exceptional resilience and determination. Through hard work and steadfast dedication, he successfully rebuilt and expanded the business, ultimately making it a leading establishment in the community.

Hayes’ reputation was built on his integrity, loyalty, and strong leadership, qualities that enabled him to gain mastery over his enterprise. He not only earned local respect but also became well-known across the nation. In addition to his professional achievements, Hayes was a respected member of local fraternities and established a thriving personal life. He lived with his wife, who played a key role in supporting the business, and their only child, Harriet T. Davis Hayes. His home, situated near his business, stood as a testament to his success and the esteem in which he was held.

As white residents moved farther west, many prominent African Americans began relocating into areas that had previously excluded them. Some moved into homes formerly owned by white families, while others built new residences through Black community builders such as Joseph E. Farrar and George Boyd, the father of Sarah Garland Jones, the first licensed Black female physician in Virginia.

In 1883, George Boyd constructed the home at 110 ½ E. Leigh Street. This home was purchased by Dr. Robert E. Jones in 1900 at a cost of $3000. The Walker family would later move into this house in 1905. Once again, Maggie Walker found herself surrounded by the educational, religious, and business leaders of the Black community, in an area known as “Quality Row.”

Her neighbors included Dr. D. A. Ferguson at 107 E. Leigh Street; Fifth Street Baptist Pastor Rev. W. F. Graham at 108 E. Leigh Street; First African Baptist Church Pastor Rev. W.T. Johnson at 110 E. Leigh Street; East End School teacher J. Andrew Bowler at 112 E. Leigh Street; Caterer W. D. Payne at 114 E Leigh; Dr. P. B. Ramsey at 115 E Leigh St; and just a block away, Second Baptist Pastor Rev. Z.D. Lewis at 202 E. Leigh, and funeral director A. D. Price at 210 E. Leigh. Nearby, at 21 E. Leigh Street, stood the newly moved Armstrong High School — the educational hub of the city’s Black community.

Walker’s household was a bustling, multi-generational home that reflected her prominent status as a business leader and civil rights advocate. The family residence included her two sons, their wives, children, her mother, and an adopted daughter. At one point, up to 13 people lived with her. To accommodate the growing family, she remodeled the house in 1922, adding 12 rooms. Afterward, the home is commonly referred to as the Walker Mansion.

She was proud of her home and its furnishings; sparing no expense in its decoration, with elegant mahogany furniture and the latest in fashion and technology. She frequently entertained guests here, including prominent African American leaders such as W. E. B. Du Bois, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Langston Hughes.

As her health began to decline, she adapted the house to accommodate her needs, adding an upstairs kitchen, an elevator, and converting a bedroom into a sitting room where she could conduct business and hold board meetings. After her death, the Walker family remained in the house until the 1970s, when it was donated to the National Park Service, retaining much of the original furnishings.

Alfred Douglas Price, Sr. (1860–1921), widely known as A. D. Price, was a trailblazing African American entrepreneur and community leader in Richmond, Virginia. Born in Hanover County, his early life was marked by limited schooling and work to support his family. By 1881, Price had established a blacksmith and wheelwright shop, later expanding into livery and funeral services. His innovations, such as securing one of Virginia’s first embalming licenses, placed him at the forefront of his industry and made him a central figure in Richmond's African American business community.

Price’s funeral home, located in the historic Jackson Ward district, became a hub for his multifaceted ventures, which included real estate and public transportation services. By the late 19th century, his enterprise was one of the largest of its kind in the city, serving African American and white clients alike. His business acumen extended to leadership roles in financial institutions and fraternal organizations, amplifying his influence within and beyond the African American community. From his warehouse on Third Street, Price operated as a wholesaler of funeral supplies to African Americans across the South. As one of Richmond's largest African American real estate holders, he was a sought-after advisor for several banks and insurance companies, serving on numerous boards, including those of the Mechanics Savings Bank, the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank, the Commercial Bank and Trust, and the Richmond Hospital and Training School for Nurses.

In 1893, a group of African-American men in Richmond, Virginia, founded the Southern Aid and Insurance Company, the first black-owned and operated insurance company in the United States, with the goal of providing affordable insurance and job opportunities for black youth. Chartered on February 25, 1893, the company’s first leaders included Z.D. Lewis, pastor of the Second Baptist Church of Richmond, as president, and R. Louis Brown as vice president, alongside other founding officers. Initially struggling to compete with popular fraternal orders and church societies, the company saw modest growth for nearly a decade. However, after replacing the original president with A.D. Price, a successful banker and businessman, the company rebranded as the Southern Aid Society of Virginia, Inc., adopting a strategy that leveraged the appeal of fraternal organizations. Under Price’s leadership, the company expanded, eventually employing over 300 people in branches across Virginia and Washington, D.C. Despite its historical significance, particularly as the first African-American insurance company, the Southern Aid Society of Virginia's post-1940 history remains largely unexplored, with limited scholarly attention given to its role in Richmond's business history. In the late 1980s, the company’s building at 214 E. Clay Street was purchased by Atlanta Life Insurance Company, marking a significant transition, though little has been written about the company's later developments. Price served as the president of the Southern Aid Society of Virginia from 1905 until his death in 1921. He is buried at Evergreen Cemetery.

Upon his death, his son, A. Douglas Price, Jr, took over the family businesses with the continued guidance of his mother, Georgie A. Gibbons Price, a former Fisk Jubilee Singer. Recognizing his son’s potential, A.D. Price trained him rigorously in all aspects of the business, including embalming and officiating at funerals. He even learned the technical aspects of funeral car maintenance and repair, even disassembling and reassembling expensive automobiles as part of his training during the transition from horse-drawn carriages to automobiles. Douglass, a graduate of Richmond Public Schools, Virginia Union University and Renourd’s School of Embalming in New York City, earned the distinction of being the youngest person to pass the Virginia Board of Embalmers exam at the age of 18. 

Under his leadership, the business maintained its high standards of service, operating 24/7 to meet the needs of the community. Beyond his work in the funeral industry, Douglass was deeply involved in the community, serving on various boards such as the Southern Aid Society, where he was director, the Commercial Bank and Trust Company, and Evergreen Cemetery, where he was again a director. He was also an active member of the Masonic order, the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and the Improved Protective Order of Elks, where he held the position of Past Exalted Ruler.

The Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA), in Richmond, was founded on December 19, 1854, with Peter V. Daniel, Jr. serving as its first president. Its initial focus was to provide young men with a safe place to stay, access to a library, and opportunities for lectures and Bible classes. By 1882, the Richmond YMCA became the sixth largest in the nation, growing to include a gym, library, classrooms, and other recreational facilities; yet these facilities were not open to the city's Black Community.

In November 1887, the Black community in Richmond established the Richmond Colored Young Men's Christian Association, creating a space for Black men in the city to engage in similar activities. The first meeting took place at Ebenezer Baptist Church, which became a hub of the Y for the next 80 years. In 1889, Rev John Milton Waldron, the first executive director, and other leaders raised funds to purchase a building at the corner of Third and Leigh Streets for $6,000, marking a significant milestone for the organization.

Rev. Scott C. Burrell, hired in 1894 as the first full-time chief executive, played a key role in the YMCA's success, holding the position until 1940. Burrell was deeply respected in the African-American community, and he worked tirelessly to provide character-building programs for young boys, teaching manners, public speaking, and religious values. Despite a lack of resources, including a gym and dormitory, the Leigh Street YMCA was better equipped than many other Black YMCAs at the time, as it owned its building and had a full-time executive director.

The early 20th century saw a nationwide effort to build Black YMCAs, fueled by philanthropists like Julius Rosenwald, who donated significant funds to African-American YMCAs. This period also witnessed the rise of African-American YMCA executives, who advocated for racial equality and integration. While Richmond’s YMCA remained segregated in the 1950s, progress began in 1955 when the Leigh Street Y joined the new YMCA of Metropolitan Richmond. After years of service, the original building was demolished in 1953, and the association moved to various locations before finally establishing the North Richmond Branch at 4207 Old Brook Road in 1974. Today, the Northside YMCA continues to serve as a beacon of hope for the community, offering programs that continue to reflect Rev. Burrell’s original mission.

Weekly notes for the organization can be found in the Richmond Planet Archives.

Miller's Hotel was established by Buck and Artina Miller. Buck, born in Virginia, had worked as a waiter at Murphy’s Hotel in West Virginia, where a famous altercation with boxer John L. Sullivan reportedly helped fund the couple's venture. The hotel, which opened in late 1904 at 541 N. 2nd Street, became a notable establishment, contributing to Jackson Ward's reputation as a hub for Black-owned businesses.

The hotel quickly gained acclaim for its luxurious accommodations, offering lodging, dining, and social spaces for African Americans in a time of segregation. Its location and reputation attracted wealthier Black clientele from across the country, with the establishment being described as one of the best hotels for African Americans in the South. In the early years, it was a popular destination for honeymooners, prominent social figures, and business people. The hotel even featured a card room frequented by women’s bridge clubs and hosted events for prominent figures like Booker T. Washington. Over time, Miller’s Hotel expanded and improved, including a major renovation in anticipation of the Jamestown Tercentennial Exposition and the addition of a bar in 1914.

Buck and Artina Miller's influence extended beyond the hotel. They operated several other businesses in the area, including a restaurant and a pharmacy. Artina, in particular, was instrumental to the hotel’s success, and her death in 1926 marked a significant turning point for the business. Despite improvements to the property in the 1930s, such as the opening of the Band Box Night Club, the economic strain caused by the Great Depression and Artina's passing led to a decline in the hotel’s fortunes. The establishment remained in operation until 1937, when “To Let” signs appeared in the windows, signaling the end of an era. Buck Miller continued to live at the hotel until his death in 1939, leaving behind a legacy as an important figure in Richmond's history.

In the late 1930s, Miller’s Hotel was sold to the National Ideal Benefits Society, who leased it to a Norfolk-based manager. Dissatisfied with the manager’s focus on the hotel’s pool hall rather than its full operations, Buck Miller turned to Neverett A. Eggleston Sr., a caterer at Lakeside Country Club, to take over the hotel’s management. Eggleston agreed to manage the hotel, eventually leasing it in March 1939 with his wife, Sallie. After three years of operation, Eggleston purchased the hotel in 1942 for $25,000 and renamed it Hotel Eggleston, with its facilities including a grill, dining room, and pool room. By the 1960's Eggleston would open a modern motel next to True Reformers Hall.

The Egglestons were an influential family in Richmond, with Neverett Sr. serving in several leadership roles, including as president of the Richmond Democratic League. The hotel was a bustling business during World War II, catering to both local residents and visiting celebrities, including jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Billie Holiday, as well as athletes like Joe Louis and Satchel Paige. The hotel, one of only a few that served African Americans in segregated Richmond, became a central part of Jackson Ward's cultural and social fabric, drawing both local and out-of-town guests. It was a notable stop for Black travelers during this time, frequently listed in the Green Book and advertised in the African American newspapers, where it boasted modern amenities like air-conditioned rooms and 24-hour food service.

As the years passed, the economic shifts of the mid-20th century began to impact the hotel’s success. Eggleston Sr. noted that after integration in the 1970s, Jackson Ward’s businesses began to decline, as African Americans ventured beyond the area to newer opportunities in the city. By the 1980s, the once-thriving Hotel Eggleston was vacant, with the commercial storefronts in the building housing other Eggleston family businesses, such as a deli and laundromat. Though the hotel’s decline reflected broader social changes, the Eggleston family’s contributions to Richmond’s African American community remained significant. Eggleston Sr. passed away in 1996, leaving behind a legacy tied to the hotel, his civic engagement, and the family’s ongoing influence in the area.

The Hippodrome Theater, built in 1914 by Walter Coulter and Amanda Thorpe, became a cornerstone of Richmond’s African American cultural life, particularly during the early 20th century. For much of its history, the theater was owned and operated by Charles Somma, who helped shape its role as more than just a performance space—it was a vibrant gathering place for the city’s Black community, reflecting the broader cultural movements of the era. One of the first Black theaters in Richmond to incorporate sound technology, the Hippodrome played a key role in the city’s entertainment scene from the 1920s to the 1940s. During this time, it hosted legendary performers such as Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, James Brown, Moms Mabley, and Ella Fitzgerald, solidifying its place as a central venue for groundbreaking African American talent.

In 1937, the theater was acquired by the Abe Lichtman theater chain, and a few years later, in 1945, it suffered a devastating fire, believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit. Despite the damage, the theater was rebuilt and reopened in 1947 after significant renovations, including an Art Deco redesign and the installation of modern amenities like air conditioning and state-of-the-art technical equipment. The reopening event attracted a crowd of 2,500, marking the theater's return to prominence. In the following decades, however, the Hippodrome's role shifted. By the 1950s, it operated primarily as a movie theater. In 1967, the theatre closed.

The theatre reopened in 1972 as the Richmond Deliverance Center under the auspences of Rev. Nathan Jackson of Elizabeth, New Jersey; who would travel 3 days a week to the Richmond area for his services. In 1980, he sold the building to Dream Merchants, Inc, who reopened the building as a community arts center with the goal of offering first run family pictures. This did not last a year and the building was sold to the Stallings family who ran movies in the venue until the mid-1990's. It then, under Ernie McClintock, tried to became a community arts center hosting the Fun Learning in the Arts Day Camp, where local children learned acting techniques and stage presence. Today, it is a popular event hall.

Richard Slaughter, an African American proprietor, first opened Slaughter’s Hotel in Jackson Ward, Richmond, at 514 N. 2nd Street. By 1931, he moved the business to a larger location across the street at 529 N. 2nd Street, in the former Commercial Savings Bank building. The former location then became the Apollo Hotel.

Gertrude Duncan, who had relocated to Richmond in 1926, began working for Slaughter at the original location and eventually became the hotel’s business manager. During this period, the hotel was not only a place for lodging but also a popular spot for meals, famous for dishes like Smithfield ham steaks. A notable feature of the business was its dedication to providing high-quality food and accommodations for Black travelers in an era when segregation limited their options elsewhere. In fact, during the 1930s and 1940s, Slaughter’s was known as a prominent establishment that attracted notable guests, including civil rights lawyer Oliver Hill.

After Slaughter’s death in 1945, Gertrude Taylor took over the management of the hotel. In the years that followed, she became a key figure in the African American community, with the hotel hosting meetings for organizations like the NAACP and the Richmond Crusade of Voters, which played a pivotal role in civil rights efforts. Under her management, the hotel continued to thrive as a gathering place for political, social, and community leaders. It was also known for its food, especially the club sandwiches, which became a local legend. 

Despite the decline of Jackson Ward after the construction of I-95 and the increasing urbanization of the area, Slaughter's Hotel remained a vital part of the community through the 1970s. By then, it was a bit worn but still cherished by many who had grown up with it as a central gathering place. Gertrude Duncan passed away in 1976, and the business slowly faded under her husband's management after her death. The building that housed Slaughter's, along with other historical structures in the area, was demolished in the early 1990s to make way for the Jackson Center, a new development that opened in 1992, marking the end of an era for this historic establishment.

Benjamin A. Cephas was born in New York City and lived there with his parents until their untimely deaths when he was just five years old. Afterward, he moved to Richmond, Virginia, to live with his uncle, Beverly Boyd. Cephas was educated in Richmond's public schools, attending Baker, Navy Hill, and Moore schools before graduating from the Richmond High and Normal School. In 1901, he married Fannie B. Dixon, a well-regarded teacher in the Richmond public schools, and together they had seven children, whom Cephas took immense pride in.

Cephas initially worked in a clerical role with the True Reformers, before relocating to Newport News, Virginia. There, he founded a sick benefit insurance company, which later merged with the Southern Aid Society, where Cephas became a vice president and served on the board of directors. He also served as a director for the Commercial Bank and Trust Company and was appointed a notary public by the Governor. In 1910, Cephas returned to Richmond to pursue a career in real estate. Despite facing competition from white agents, he built a reputation for accuracy, reliability, and trustworthiness, earning the confidence of both Black and white clients. His business flourished, and his two children, Marian B. and B. A. Cephas Jr. (later a city councilman), joined him in the enterprise.

Cephas was particularly proud of the success he achieved in serving Richmond's Black community. His real estate business, located on North Second Street, played a vital role in supporting Black property ownership and real estate transactions in the city. Through his integrity, dedication, and vision, Cephas became one of the most respected and successful real estate agents in Richmond, establishing a legacy of leadership and service to both his family and his community.

The Globe Theatre, founded in 1908, was a significant cultural landmark in its community. Located at 510 N 2nd St, it originally opened under the ownership of a white proprietor, the theatre saw a change in management in 1910 when the original owner retired and leased the venue to Arthur L. MacBeth of Norfolk. This marked a shift in the theatre’s operations and its role in local entertainment. However, by 1917, the Globe Theatre had closed its doors, likely due to shifting economic or social conditions, but it reopened later that year, continuing to serve the community with a fresh lease on life.

By 1923, the Globe Theatre was part of a broader theatrical portfolio run by Charles L. Somma, who also managed the Rayo and Hippodrome Theatres. Under Somers' stewardship, the Globe Theatre became a well-known venue for both minstrel shows and motion picture screenings, appealing to a wide audience with its diverse programming. The theatre also earned a reputation for its community involvement, hosting benefits for local charities such as the Colored Old Folks Home and the Friends Orphan Asylum. These charitable events helped to cement the Globe's status not just as an entertainment venue, but as an important civic institution that gave back to the community while providing a space for leisure and cultural enrichment. The Globe’s legacy is a testament to the importance of community-oriented entertainment venues in the early 20th century.

Located at 411-415 N 2nd Street, between Marshall and Clay Streets, the Rayo Theatre was a prominent entertainment venue in the early 20th century. In 1921, it was under the management of Broadway Amusement Co., led by Ken E. Finlay. However, by 1923, the theatre was rebranded as the Howard Theatre, when Charles L. Somma, the proprietor of the Globe and Hippodrome theatres leased the venue; only to revert back to its original name, Rayo, in 1924. That same year, the theatre saw a revitalization under the management of Mr. Droste, who transformed the struggling venue into a vibrant hub for high-quality entertainment. With his leadership, the Rayo Theatre became renowned for offering a diverse array of performances, including vaudeville acts by a company of permanent players, plays, and motion pictures.

Under Droste's direction, the theatre developed a loyal following, thanks in large part to its commitment to providing value and exceptional customer service. The venue was known for its unique, weekly promotions that kept audiences coming back for more. Monday nights were souvenir nights with a souvenir given to every attendee, while Wednesday nights featured an unusual and memorable giveaway—a crate of live chickens that were awarded to one lucky audience member. Thursdays were reserved for free dance nights, where between shows, patrons could take to the stage for a dance, with live music provided by Henry Waterson's De Luxe Orchestra. Fridays brought the Dandy Contest, where the best-dressed individual would be crowned, and Saturdays offered Pay Night, during which fifty envelopes containing real money were distributed to lucky ticket holders. The theatre prided itself on its clean, family-friendly atmosphere, advertising itself as "a theatre that you are proud to walk into and proud to take your Mother, Sister, or Wife to, because above all, the shows are CLEAN and the service Courteous." These thoughtful touches and the theatre's commitment to quality helped establish the Rayo Theatre as a beloved staple of local entertainment for many years.