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Bronzeville Pioneers

In the 1930s and 1940s, the near east side of downtown Columbus flourished as a wealthy African-American business and entertainment hub, now recognized as the King-Lincoln District. During this era, segregation inadvertently spurred the area's economic and cultural growth, as African-American customers were limited to supporting businesses within their community. This limitation birthed a vibrant, self-reliant neighborhood that took pride in its cultural identity and forged its own paths to success.

James Albert "Al" Jackson, a highly successful African-American real estate mogul and entrepreneur, along with his associate James "Ernie" Williams, were pivotal figures in this movement. They established cornerstone establishments like the Empress Theatre, the Empress Soda Grill, and the Crystal Slipper Ballroom. Motivated by the discriminatory practices of a nearby white-owned theatre chain, which explicitly excluded African-Americans, Jackson was driven to create a magnificent theatre dedicated to serving the African-American residents of Columbus, showcasing the community's resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.

Rev. N. L. Scarborough

The first mayor of Bronzeville was the Reverend N.L. Scarborough. On March 3, 1937, he was elected as the mayor of Bronzeville, the historic Near East Side neighborhood and the beating heart of Columbus’ Black community. Rev. Scarborough was the pastor of Trinity Baptist Church and a resident of North Garfield Avenue. His inauguration took place at the church, with 1,000 people in attendance, including Columbus Mayor Myron B. Gessaman. In his address, Rev. Scarborough emphasized the need for unity and collective action to address common challenges faced by all citizens. He established an all-Black cabinet to address Bronzeville’s social, political, and economic needs.

Eldon Ward

Eldon Ward, a true community leader and philanthropist, played a significant role within the Bronzeville community in Columbus, Ohio. Let’s explore his remarkable legacy:

  1. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage:

    • Eldon Ward was part of the Ward family, known for their pioneering business, E.E. Ward Moving & Storage.

    • Founded in the late 1880s by John T. Ward, this company was one of the first Black-owned businesses in the United States.

    • Eldon joined the company in 1945 and became its President in 1951.

    • His commitment to service and community extended beyond business.

  2. Philanthropy and Leadership:

  3. Artistic Tribute:

    • The King Arts Complex features three unique murals that tell the story of E.E. Ward Moving & Storage and the Ward family.

    • These murals, created by renowned artist Aminah Robinson, celebrate their impressive history and lasting impact.

Eldon Ward’s dedication to community service and philanthropy continues to inspire. 

Helen Beatrice Jenkins

Helen Beatrice Jenkins (1895 - June 28, 1987) was a teacher at the Spring Street School. She graduated from the first East High School and Columbus Normal School, and was a teacher with Columbus Public Schools for 35 years. She married Raymond Theodore Davis on January 14, 1932. Her father was George William Jenkins and her mother was Sarah Parahan Jenkins. The text below this photograph reads, "She is the only colored teacher in the Spring Street School. She is quite fortunate in securing the position, and having the ability to hold it." During the 1910s she lived at 182 St. Clair Avenue.

Rev. Dr. James Preston Poindexter

A man who pioneered change for black residents of Columbus and was instrumental in helping slaves escape died on Feb. 7, 1907.

The Rev. James Poindexter, pastor of Columbus’ largest black church from 1858 to 1898, brooked no compromise in the pursuit of freedom, violating state and federal laws for decades to protect his own unalienable rights and those of the city’s black residents and escaping slaves.

Poindexter was born on Sept. 25, 1819, in Virginia. His father was white; his mother was black and Cherokee. He trained as a barber and moved to Columbus in 1838. His shop at 61 S. High St., across from the Statehouse, was popular with city leaders and state politicians.  

Dr. William Arthur Method

Indeed, Dr. William Arthur Method played a pivotal role in the establishment of a significant institution in Bronzeville, Ohio. Let’s delve into the history of the Alpha Hospital and Professional Building:

  1. Alpha Hospital and Professional Building:

  2. Legacy and Impact:

    • The Alpha Hospital became a beacon of hope and healing within the community.

    • Dr. Method’s vision and dedication ensured that Bronzeville had access to quality healthcare during a time when racial segregation and disparities were prevalent.

    • The hospital’s legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the resilience and strength of the African-American community in Columbus.

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Lulu Hall Alexander

Lulu Hall Alexander was a remarkable figure associated with the Bronzeville community in Columbus, Ohio. Let’s explore her life and contributions:

  1. Lulu Hall Alexander (1873–1967):

  2. Gold Star Mother:

Lulu Hall Alexander’s impact on Bronzeville and her enduring spirit continue to inspire generations. 🌟🙏

Mrs. Fannie Cook

Mrs. Fannie Josephine Tergerson Cook (1891–1967) was a notable figure associated with the Bronzeville community in Columbus, Ohio. Let’s explore her life and legacy:

  1. Early Life and Contributions:

    • Born in 1891, Mrs. Fannie Josephine Tergerson Cook made significant contributions to her community.

    • She was known for her dedication to service, advocacy, and uplifting others within Bronzeville.

  2. Family and Impact:

    • Mrs. Cook was the wife of Harry Cook, Sr..

    • Her family faced both joys and sorrows, including the loss of her youngest daughter, Diane, and youngest son, Edward.

    • Despite personal challenges, Mrs. Fannie Cook’s resilience left an indelible mark on the community.

  3. Legacy:

Mrs. Fannie Cook’s impact on Bronzeville remains a testament to strength, love, and community bonds. 

Mrs. Bertha P. Crear

Mrs. Bertha P. Crear, born as Bertha Smith in 1879, was a remarkable spiritualist leader within the Bronzeville community in Columbus, Ohio. Let’s explore her fascinating journey:

  1. Early Spiritual Calling:

    • At the age of 17, Bertha attended her first séance, where she received a profound message: she would become a leader in the Spiritualist movement.

    • This revelation set her on a path of spiritual exploration and service.

  2. Marriage and Widowing:

    • Bertha was married and widowed by 1900.

    • Her second husband, Elick Gregg, accompanied her during her time in Columbus, Ohio, where she worked as a medium under the name Bertha Gregg.

    • After divorcing Gregg, she married her third husband, Charles Osborne Crear, in 1918.

  3. Spiritual Leadership:

    • Bertha was already the pastor of the Christian Spiritualist Church located on Long Avenue in Columbus when she married Charles.

    • She advertised herself as a spiritual advisor and held weekly séances.

    • By 1914, her popularity extended beyond Bronzeville, as she held lectures and séances across the state.

    • Bertha became the first African American to receive a commission from the Ohio Spiritualists Association.

  4. International Recognition:

    • In 1922, Bertha represented the United States at the International Spiritualists Congress in London.

    • She addressed large crowds, including women at the Ealing Spiritualist Church.

    • During the congress, she befriended Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who praised her as an excellent resource and medium for Black Spiritualists.

    • Bertha also signed an article condemning Houdini for labeling all Spiritualists as frauds.

  5. Legacy and Challenges:

    • Despite her popularity, Bertha faced discrimination. When the National Spiritualists Association (NSA) decided to create separate organizations for whites and Blacks in 1925, she surrendered her credentials.

    • Tragically, Bertha passed away at the young age of 48 in 1927 after undergoing surgery.

    • Her obituary hailed her as an “outstanding figure in the story of American Mediumship.”

Bertha P. Crear’s spiritual leadership and impact on the Bronzeville community remain an enduring part of its history. 

Bill Willis

Bill Willis (1921–2007) was a football legend and a significant figure associated with the Bronzeville community in Columbus, Ohio. Let’s explore his remarkable life and contributions:

  1. Early Career and Ohio State University:

    • Willis arrived at Ohio State University in 1941 as a two-way lineman and track athlete.

    • He blocked for Les Horvath, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1944, and became Ohio State’s first black All-American in 1943-44.

    • The 1942 Ohio State team, on which Willis was a star, won the university’s first national title.

  2. Professional Football Pioneer:

    • In 1946, Bill Willis signed with the Cleveland Browns of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC).

    • He played both offense and defense for the Browns and won acclaim as a middle guard on a five-man defensive front.

    • Willis made a touchdown-saving tackle in a playoff game against the New York Giants, allowing the Browns to advance and eventually win the 1950 NFL championship game in their first year in the NFL.

  3. Legacy and Honors:

    • Willis was the first black full-time starter in professional football’s modern era.

    • He is a member of both the college and pro football halls of fame.

    • The Ohio State University honored Willis by retiring his No. 99 jersey in 2007.

    • During the ceremony, officials presented him with a replica of his 1942 Ohio State national championship ring.

  4. Personal Impact:

    • Beyond football, Bill Willis was known for his character and commitment to family.

    • His legacy extends beyond the field, inspiring generations both in sports and in life.

Bill Willis remains an enduring symbol of excellence, resilience, and trailblazing achievement. 

Anne B. Walker

Ann B. Walker, a Black broadcasting pioneer and long-time community leader, has left an indelible mark on the Columbus community. Born in 1924, she grew up on 22nd Street in the heart of Columbus’ Black community. Her name has long stood tall, inspiring many.

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In honor of her contributions, the Ann B. Walker Plaza was dedicated as part of the new Adelphi Quarter apartment complex on East Long Street in the historic King-Lincoln Bronzeville neighborhood. The Adelphi Quarter, developed by local real estate company Borror and Kingsley & Co., features four three-story buildings with a total of 130 units. Half of the units are already leased, offering a range of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. The street-level businesses within the complex, including a flower shop, yoga studio, nail salon, and the Adelphi Bank, are all owned by Black business owners.

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The Adelphi Quarter sits on the site of the former Adelphi Loan & Savings Co., the first Black-owned bank in Columbus, which began in the 1920s. The developers incorporated the facade of the original Adelphi building, preserving its historical significance. Construction is expected to be completed in September.

Now, Ann B. Walker’s name graces the side of one of the Adelphi Quarter buildings, serving as a tribute to her enduring legacy within the Bronzeville community.

Hylas T. Brassfield

Hylas Tecumseh Brassfield (1887–1970) was a prominent figure within the Bronzeville community in Columbus, Ohio. His contributions left a lasting impact:

  1. Business Ventures:

    • Brassfield was the owner of the Mt. Vernon Avenue and the Long and Seventeenth Street Cafeteria.

    • These businesses were integral parts of the Historic Long Street District, which served as the center of African-American commercial, social, and entertainment life in Columbus from the 1920s through the 1950s.

  2. Community Influence:

    • Brassfield’s establishments provided essential services and gathering spaces for the community.

    • His legacy reflects entrepreneurship, community building, and resilience.

  3. Honoring His Memory:

    • In recognition of his impact, the Ann B. Walker Plaza was dedicated as part of the new Adelphi Quarter apartment complex on East Long Street in the historic King-Lincoln Bronzeville neighborhood.

Hylas T. Brassfield remains a symbol of progress and community strength within Bronzeville.

Tippie Dyer Orchestra

The Tippie Dyer Orchestra holds a special place in the musical history of Bronzeville, Ohio. Led by trombonist Symeone E. “Tippie” Dyer Jr., this orchestra made significant contributions during the early 1940s.

Here are some key details about the Tippie Dyer Orchestra:

  1. Origins and Formation:

    • The group initially started as a WPA youth orchestra that met at The Beatty Community Center.

    • It was organized by Peter France and included talented musicians from the community.

  2. Members:

    • Some of the notable individuals who played with the Tippie Dyer Orchestra included:

    • Conklin Brown, Reggie Morgan ,Webster Lyman, Phillip Townes, Jimmie Carter, Eddie Littlejohn. Bobby Little, Jarvis Woodley, Jessie Holliman, Wilton Greene

  3. Legacy:

    • The Tippie Dyer Orchestra provided entertainment, uplifted spirits, and showcased the immense talent within Bronzeville.

    • Their performances resonated with the community, contributing to the vibrant cultural scene of the district.

  4. Ann B. Walker Plaza:

    • In honor of their legacy, the Ann B. Walker Plaza was dedicated as part of the new Adelphi Quarter apartment complex on East Long Street.

    • This plaza serves as a tribute to the musicians who enriched Bronzeville’s cultural heritage.

The Tippie Dyer Orchestra’s music continues to echo through time, reminding us of the artistic vibrancy of Bronzeville. 

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