Ellen Walker Craig-Jones facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ellen Walker Craig-Jones
|
|
|---|---|
| 5th Mayor of Urbancrest | |
| In office 1972–1975 |
|
| Preceded by | Vaughn E. Hairston |
| Succeeded by | Vaughn E. Hairston |
| Personal details | |
| Born | June 5, 1906 Franklin County, Ohio |
| Died | January 23, 2000 |
Ellen Walker Craig-Jones (1906–2000) was an important American politician. She made history as the first African American woman to be elected mayor of a town in the United States. This happened in 1972. She was the mayor of Urbancrest, Ohio from 1972 to 1975. Her work was recognized when she was added to the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame for her service in government.
Contents
Early Political Career
Ellen Walker Craig-Jones began her political journey in 1960. She joined the Urbancrest Village Council. This was her first step in helping her community.
Becoming Mayor of Urbancrest
In 1971, Craig-Jones was elected Mayor of Urbancrest, Ohio. This was a very important moment. She became the first African American woman to be elected mayor by popular vote in the United States. She officially took office in 1972.
Improving the Community
As mayor, Craig-Jones worked hard to make Urbancrest a better place. She focused on making the town more modern. During her time in office, Urbancrest received a large housing project. This project helped provide homes for citizens who needed them. She also made many other improvements. These included fixing streets, adding new streetlights, and putting up signs. She served as mayor until 1975.
Community Involvement
Beyond her role as mayor, Ellen Walker Craig-Jones was deeply involved in her community. She spent her life working to improve conditions in Urbancrest.
Founding and Joining Groups
She helped start or was a member of several important groups. These included the Urbancrest Volunteer Civic Improvement Association. She also supported the Buckeye Boys Ranch. Craig-Jones was active with the Urbancrest Chapter of the Blue Star Mothers of America.
Supporting Youth and Recreation
She cared a lot about young people. She was involved with the Urbancrest Youth Council. She also helped with the Urbancrest Community Recreation Club. Her work helped create fun and safe activities for kids and teens. She also worked with the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission.
Later Life and Legacy
Ellen Walker Craig-Jones passed away on January 23, 2000. She was 93 years old. Her legacy lives on through the improvements she brought to Urbancrest. She also inspired many as a pioneering African American woman in politics.
