Christine Wigfall Morris facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Christine Wigfall Morris
|
|
|---|---|
Morris in 2010
|
|
| Born | March 24, 1922 |
| Died | December 7, 2014 (aged 92) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Librarian |
| Known for | First African American librarian in Clearwater, Florida |
| Spouse(s) | Willie J. Morris |
| Parent(s) | Eddie and Hattie Wigfall |
Christine Wigfall Morris (March 24, 1922 – December 7, 2014) was an American librarian. She made history in Clearwater, Florida. She was the first African American to work as a librarian there. She helped many local children discover the joy of reading.
A Pioneering Librarian
In 1949, Christine Morris started working for the city of Clearwater, Florida. This was a big step. She became the first African American librarian in the city. Before this, she had never even been inside a library. This was because of laws at the time that kept people of different races apart.
Soon after, she became the director of the "Negro Library." This new library opened in 1950. A local resident, Horace Carson, helped get money for the library. He then asked Morris to lead it.
Growing the Library
As the director, Morris did many jobs. She told stories to children. She also swept the floors. She often had to ask for more books. She always encouraged children to read and learn.
In 1962, the library moved to a bigger, official building. Before that, it was in a tiny rented space. The new building was designed by architect Eugene Beach. Morris asked him to make it circular. This way, she could watch all the library activities by herself. In 1983, after she retired, the building was renamed the North Greenwood Library.
Beyond the Bookshelf
Morris did more than just library work. She helped people register to vote. She also helped students get ready for high school tests. Even after she retired in 1983, she stayed involved in her community. She asked the city not to cut library hours. She wanted to make sure children could always access books.
In 2010, she helped write a book. It was called "Christine Wigfall Morris: Stories of Family, Community, and History." This book shared her life experiences. Today, there is a special book collection named after her. You can find it at the North Greenwood Library.
Early Life and Background
Christine Morris was born on March 24, 1922. Her hometown was Register, Georgia. Her parents were Eddie and Hattie Wigfall. She also had a sister named Louise.
In 1926, her family moved to Clearwater, Florida. Her parents started a dry cleaning business there. Christine went to a high school that was only for African American students. She graduated in 1941. Later, she studied home economics and English at Bethune-Cookman University. She was married to Willie J. Morris. They did not have any children. She passed away on December 7, 2014.
