Amos Hargrett facts for kids
Amos Hargrett (born September 14, 1833 – died November 1905) was an important person in Florida's history. He was a farmer, a county commissioner, and a justice of the peace. He also helped write Florida's laws as a delegate to the 1885 Constitutional Convention. He was one of only seven African American delegates at that important meeting. His great-grandson is James Hargrett, who later became a state senator in Florida.
Amos Hargrett was born in Miccosukee, Florida. During his early life, he was enslaved.
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Public Service and Community Work
Amos Hargrett played a big role in his community after the Reconstruction era. This was a time when the United States was rebuilding after the Civil War.
Wakulla County Commissioner
From 1868 to 1870, Amos Hargrett served as a Wakulla County Commissioner. A county commissioner helps manage the local government and makes decisions for the county.
Justice of the Peace
He also worked as a justice of the peace in Wakulla County in 1876 and 1877. A justice of the peace is a local official who handles minor legal cases and keeps the peace.
Delegate to the Constitutional Convention
One of his most important roles was being a delegate to Florida's 1885 Constitutional Convention. Delegates are chosen representatives who meet to write or change a state's constitution, which is like a rulebook for the state government.
Other Roles
- From 1874 to 1877, he was a commissioner of pilotage in St. Marks. This role involved overseeing pilots who guide ships safely into and out of harbors.
- Later, from 1892 to 1894, he served as the postmaster in St. Marks. A postmaster is in charge of a local post office.
- Amos Hargrett was also a dedicated husband and father. He was a deacon in the Missionary Baptist Church for thirty years, helping lead his church community.
- His son, Amos Hargrett Jr. (1865 - 1931), was born in Wakulla County.
In 1877, he worked on the board of canvassers with W. T. Duval and James W. Smith Jr. This board helps to officially count votes after an election.
Amos Hargrett is buried at the Walker Cemetery.
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