Carrie Saxon Perry facts for kids

Carrie Saxon Perry (born August 30, 1931 – died November 22, 2018) was an important American politician. She made history in 1987. She became the first African American woman to be elected mayor of a major city in New England. That city was Hartford, Connecticut. She served as mayor for three terms. Before becoming mayor, she was a member of the Connecticut House of Representatives from 1980 to 1987. Carrie Saxon Perry was also known for her unique, broad-rimmed hats!

Carrie Saxon Perry's Early Life

Carrie Saxon Perry was born in Hartford on August 30, 1931. Her parents were David Saxon and Mabel Lee. She was mostly raised by her grandmother. Her father left the family when she was very young.

She went to Howard University. There, she earned a degree in economics. She also studied law at Howard University School of Law for two years. After leaving law school, she worked with many community groups. She also worked for the state welfare agency. This agency helps people in need.

Her Journey in Politics

Carrie Saxon Perry first ran for state representative in 1976. She didn't win that time. But she was elected in 1980. She served in the Connecticut House of Representatives until 1987. During her time there, she held important roles. She was an assistant majority leader. She also chaired a committee that handled money for projects. She was a member of committees for education, finance, and housing.

She became famous for wearing special hats. She owned about two dozen of them! She once said she started wearing hats because she didn't have much time to style her hair.

Becoming Mayor of Hartford

In 1987, Carrie Saxon Perry was elected mayor of Hartford. She was 56 years old. The previous mayor, Thirman L. Milner, decided not to run again. He was Hartford's first African American mayor.

Carrie Saxon Perry joined the race for mayor. She won the support of the local Democratic Party. In the main election, she ran against Philip Steele. She won with 58 percent of the votes.

As mayor, she helped reduce tension between different groups in the city. For example, after a big court decision in 1992, she visited neighborhoods. Her actions helped prevent unrest in Hartford. This was important because other cities faced problems. She also supported equal rights for all people in Hartford. She introduced rules against unfair treatment in schools. This happened five years before similar rules were made for the whole state of Connecticut. The mayor's job in Hartford was mostly about representing the city. It paid a small salary.

After serving three terms as mayor, she ran for re-election. But she was defeated by Michael Peters. He was a city firefighter and a new challenger. He campaigned on improving Hartford's economy. He also promised to address rising street crime.

Later Work and Legacy

In 2002, Carrie Saxon Perry became the president of the NAACP chapter in Hartford. The NAACP is a well-known civil rights organization.

Personal Life and Passing

Carrie Saxon Perry was married to James Perry, Jr., but they later divorced. She had one son. She also had four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Carrie Saxon Perry passed away in Waterbury on November 22, 2018. She was 87 years old.