Alphonso Wilson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alphonso Wilson
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Phototype from the Progress, June 21, 1890
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| Born | 1860 Bedford, Missouri, U.S.
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| Died | (aged 76) Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.
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| Occupation | Real Estate |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse(s) | Kathryn |
| Children | 2 |
Alphonso Wilson was an important African-American activist who lived in Omaha, Nebraska during the late 1800s and early 1900s. He worked hard to help his community and make things better for Black people in Omaha. He was involved in many groups that aimed to improve life for everyone.
Contents
Alphonso Wilson: A Community Helper
From Missouri to Nebraska
Alphonso Wilson was born in Bedford, Missouri, in 1860. When he was about 20 years old, in 1880, he moved to Chicago. A few years later, in 1886, he settled in Omaha, Nebraska. This is where he would make a big difference.
Helping People Find Homes
In Omaha, Alphonso Wilson became a partner in a real estate company called Wilson & Bryant. His partner was James Bryant. Real estate is about buying and selling land and buildings. This work helped him understand how people could get homes.
In 1890, he joined a special group that helped Black people in Omaha buy or build their own homes. This group was called a national building, loan, and protective union. Alphonso Wilson was one of the appraisers, which means he helped decide the value of properties.
A Leader in the Community
Alphonso Wilson was a strong leader in his community. In 1890, he was chosen to be the Chairman of the Bureau of Immigration for the Nebraska branch of the National Afro-American League. This league worked to protect the rights of African Americans.
He also helped start the Omaha Union League club in 1895. This club was a social club and a lyceum. A lyceum was a place where people could learn and discuss important ideas. Alphonso Wilson served as the treasurer for this club.
Politics and Music
Alphonso Wilson was also involved in politics. He was a delegate to the state Republican convention in both 1896 and 1901. A delegate is someone chosen to represent a group at a big meeting.
He and his wife, Kathryn, loved music. Alphonso played the violin and sometimes performed with a musician named Dan Desdunes.
Later Life and Family
Later in his life, Alphonso Wilson worked as a steward for important clubs in Omaha, like the Metropolitan Club and the University Club. He was also a treasurer and trustee for the Excelsior Masonic Lodge, which is a type of community organization.
Alphonso and Kathryn Wilson had two sons, Alphonso and Thomas. Alphonso Wilson passed away in 1936 at the age of 76. His wife, Kathryn, was also a notable person. She was born in 1870 and started the California Beauty School in Omaha. It was known as the "oldest beauty school west of Chicago." She passed away in 1952.
