Corrvine Patterson facts for kids

Corrvine Patterson (born 1848, death date unknown) was an important businessman and politician. He played a big role in shaping the early African American community in Wyandotte County.

Early Life of Corrvine Patterson

Corrvine Patterson was born in 1848 in Howard County, Missouri. His parents were enslaved people. Even though he was born into slavery, he taught himself how to read and write. This was a huge achievement at a time when education was often denied to enslaved people.

Corrvine Patterson's Career

Corrvine Patterson served in the Civil War. He fought for the Union Army, which was the side that wanted to end slavery. After the war, around 1868, he moved to Wyandotte, Kansas.

Business Ventures

Once in Kansas, Patterson started working for the railroad. He was a hard worker and soon began his own businesses. In the 1870s, he opened a grocery store. He also bought several pieces of land in what is now Kansas City, Kansas. Later, he started a cleaning service.

Political Roles

Corrvine Patterson eventually left his grocery store to focus on politics. He held many important positions. In 1889, he became the street commissioner. This meant he was in charge of the city's streets. He also served as the city marshal and a deputy sheriff. These roles involved keeping law and order in the community. By 1900, he was seen as a wise and respected leader among African Americans in Wyandotte County.

Community Involvement and Activism

Corrvine Patterson was deeply involved in his community. He was a member of the First Baptist Church. Later, he helped start the Metropolitan Baptist Church.

Civil Rights Work

Patterson was also a strong civil rights activist. He worked to make sure African Americans had equal rights and opportunities. He was a main organizer who helped the Exodusters. These were thousands of formerly enslaved people who left the Southern states after the Civil War. They moved to eastern Kansas looking for a better life and freedom. Patterson helped these refugees settle and find homes.

Saving Western University

He also led efforts to save Freedman's University. This school was in the nearby town of Quindaro. It was later renamed Western University. Patterson's work helped ensure that this important educational institution could continue to serve the community.