Ben Chester White facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ben Chester White
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| Born | January 5, 1899 Natchez, Mississippi
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| Died | June 10, 1966 (aged 67) Natchez, Mississippi
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| Occupation | Caretaker, Deacon |
| Children | Jesse White and Louis White |
Ben Chester White (born January 5, 1899 – died June 10, 1966) was an African-American man from Natchez, Mississippi. He worked as a caretaker and was a respected member of his community. Ben Chester White was sadly killed by members of the KKK. His death was a tragic event during a time of great change in American history.
About Ben Chester White
His Early Life
Ben Chester White lived his entire life in Natchez, Mississippi. He worked as a caretaker on the Carter family farm. He was also a deacon at his local Baptist church. Even though he had limited reading skills, he could remember and share many parts of the Bible.
His Family
Ben Chester White had two sons:
- Jesse White - He later moved to Baton Rouge.
- Louis White - He later went to Vietnam.
His Death and What Happened Next
Ben Chester White was killed on June 10, 1966. He was buried in the Southwood Lodge Church Cemetery in Natchez.
After his death, some people were arrested for his murder. It took a long time, but eventually, one person was found guilty and sent to prison.
In 1968, Ben Chester White's son, Jesse White, took the KKK to court. A court decided the KKK had to pay a large sum of money. This was a very important moment because it was the first time the KKK was legally held responsible for the actions of one of its members. However, the money was never paid.
Ben Chester White is remembered for his life and the injustice he faced. In 1989, his name was added to the Civil Rights Memorial. In 2013, a documentary called Civil Rights Movement Road Trip showed footage about him.
