Clara Louise Payne facts for kids

Clara Louise Payne (1882 - 1958) was an important leader in Buffalo, New York. She was the first African American social worker in the Department of Public Welfare. Clara was known for working hard to help her Black community.

Who Was Clara Louise Payne?

Clara Louise Payne was born in Buffalo, New York, in February 1882. Her parents were Thomas W. and Grace L. Payne. Her father worked as an office clerk. Her mother was a matron at a school. Clara had two siblings, Madeline and Dr. Earle Clifford Payne. Her family was well-known in Buffalo. They were part of important social clubs like the New Century and the Criterion.

Clara was also a member of St. Philip's Episcopal Church. Her grandparents helped start this church.

Making a Difference in Her Community

Clara Payne was very active in the Buffalo community. She worked tirelessly to help others.

In 1901, Buffalo hosted a big event called the Pan-American Exposition. Clara was on the organizing committee for the Buffalo Progressive Club. They held a special event for African Americans visiting the exposition.

In 1911, Clara became a co-head worker at the Social Center for Negros. She worked with Susan Evans. This center offered programs for adults. These programs included industrial training, fun activities, and some educational classes.

During World War I and the flu outbreaks of 1918 and 1920, Clara volunteered as a nurse. She helped at Marin Hospital.

In April 1920, Clara helped organize a Leonard Wood Club. This club was for African American women in Buffalo. It was named after a Republican candidate for president. Clara was also a member of the Buffalo chapter of the NAACP. In 1920, she was elected vice president of the chapter.

Clara was a Girl Scout Troop Leader. She even started the first integrated YWCA in her area. In 1926, she joined the YWCA's Board of Directors. She was also part of the Y's Business Girls' Council and its Inter-racial committee.

She was a founding member of the Buffalo Urban League. She served on its Board of Directors from 1927 until 1958.

Clara's Career as a Social Worker

Clara Payne started her career in different jobs. In 1905, she worked as a domestic helper. By 1915, she was a caterer. She also held important administrative jobs at the NAACP and the National Urban League.

In June 1921, Clara began working for the Department of Public Welfare. She was a Home Visitor. She continued this work for 32 years as a social worker. Clara was the first African American person to work in the social welfare department for Erie County.

Her Lasting Impact

Clara Payne passed away on September 5, 1958. She was 76 years old. Her work helped many people in Buffalo. She left behind a legacy of strong community leadership and dedication.

See also

• African-American women's suffrage movement
• Black suffrage in the United States