Bessye J. Bearden facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bessye J. Bearden
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born |
Bessye Banks
November 1893 |
| Died | September 16, 1943 (aged 49) Harlem, New York, U.S.
|
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute |
| Occupation | Journalist |
| Spouse(s) | Richard Howard Bearden |
Bessye Johnson Bearden (born November 1893 – died September 16, 1943) was an amazing American journalist and community leader. She was also the mother of the famous artist Romare Bearden.
Who Was Bessye J. Bearden?
Bessye Banks was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She was the youngest child of George T. and Carrie O. Banks. She went to schools in North Carolina and Richmond, Virginia. She also studied at Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute. After graduating, she continued her studies at the University of Pittsburgh and Columbia University.
When she was 20, Bessye married Richard Howard Bearden. They had one son named Romare Bearden, who was born in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 1914, the family moved to New York City. By 1920, they settled in Harlem. Their home became a popular spot for thinkers and artists. Famous musicians like Duke Ellington and Thomas "Fats" Waller often visited. People said Bessye was a strong leader in Harlem. She was someone who could help solve problems and get things done.
Bessye's Career and Community Work
Bessye Bearden was a talented writer. From 1927, she worked as a reporter for The Chicago Defender newspaper in New York. She also wrote articles for other publications.
She made history in 1922. Bessye was the first woman to be elected to a local school board in New York City. She served on School Board No. 15 until 1939. This was a big step for women in public service.
Bessye was very active in her community. She belonged to many important groups.
- She was the secretary of the executive board for the New York Urban League. This group worked to help African Americans.
- She was the treasurer for the National Council of Negro Women. This council supported Black women across the country.
- She was on the executive boards of the Harlem Community Council.
- She was the first president of the Colored Women's Democratic League.
On June 11, 1935, Bessye was given an important job. She became a Deputy Collector of Internal Revenue for New York State. This meant she helped collect taxes for the government.
Bessye Johnson Bearden passed away in Harlem Hospital. She was 52 years old. She is buried at Woodlawn Cemetery.
Images for kids
-
Bessye J. Bearden
