Benjamin Franklin Williams facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Benjamin Franklin Williams
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| Texas State Representative from District 53 (Fort Bend and Waller Counties) | |
| In office January 13, 1885 – January 11, 1887 (died while in office) |
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| Preceded by | George W. Wyatt |
| Succeeded by | James Wesson Parker |
| Texas State Representative from District 37 (Fort Bend, Waller, and Wharton Counties) | |
| In office January 14, 1879 – January 11, 1881 |
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| Preceded by | Henry S. Sneed |
| Succeeded by | George W. Wyatt |
| Texas State Representative from District 25 (Colorado and Lavaca Counties) | |
| In office February 9, 1870 – January 14, 1873 |
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| Preceded by | Josiah Shaw |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1819 Virginia, USA |
| Died | 1886 |
| Resting place | Kendleton, Fort Bend County, Texas |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Caroline Williams |
| Children | Thomas Williams |
| Residences | Kendleton, Texas |
| Occupation | Clergyman |
Benjamin Franklin Williams (1819–1886) was an important person in Texas history. He was a Methodist minister and a Republican politician. Williams served three times in the Texas Legislature, which is the group that makes laws for Texas. He also helped create the community of Kendleton, which was a place for freed slaves.
Early Life and Freedom
Benjamin Franklin Williams was born into slavery in Brunswick County, Virginia, in 1819. In 1859, he was brought to Colorado County, Texas. After the American Civil War ended and slavery was abolished, Williams became a free man.
A Leader in the Church
After gaining his freedom, Benjamin Franklin Williams became a Methodist minister. He was very active during the Reconstruction period. This was a time when the United States was rebuilding after the Civil War.
Williams became the first pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Columbus, Texas, for freed people. He also helped start Wesley Chapel Methodist Church in Austin in 1865. Williams was known for encouraging people to join the Republican Party. He believed it was important for African Americans to be involved in politics.
In 1867, Williams officially became a minister with the Texas Mission Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was recognized for his dedication and leadership in the church.
Serving in Texas Government
Benjamin Franklin Williams was a strong voice for his community. He was elected as a delegate to the Reconstruction Constitutional Convention in 1868. At this meeting, leaders wrote new rules for the state of Texas. Williams was 48 years old and one of the most active black delegates.
He was elected to the Texas House of Representatives three times:
- From Colorado and Lavaca Counties in the 12th Texas Legislature.
- From Waller, Fort Bend, and Wharton Counties in the 16th Texas Legislature.
- From Waller and Fort Bend Counties in the 19th Texas Legislature.
In 1871, during his time in the 12th Legislature, Williams was nominated to be the Speaker of the Texas House. This is a very important leadership role. Although he didn't win, it showed how respected he was by his fellow lawmakers.
Williams also voted to approve the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This amendment officially ended slavery across the country.
When he was 65, serving in the 19th Texas Legislature, people described him as a "quiet, sensible, and well informed man." They said he was a good person and a dedicated Christian worker.
Williams played a key role in creating the community of Kendleton. This town was founded as a place where freed slaves could build new lives.
See also
