F. Leon Harris facts for kids
Fortune Leon Harris (born October 26, 1888 – died November 2, 1973) was an important American leader. He worked for civil rights, which means he fought for equal rights for all people. He was also a Republican Party politician from New Jersey. He made history as the first African American person elected to a county-wide job in Monmouth County, New Jersey.
About Fortune Leon Harris
Fortune Leon Harris was born in Asbury Park, New Jersey, on October 26, 1888. His father, Fortune F. Harris, was a funeral director, someone who helps families arrange funerals. When he was young, Fortune Leon Harris was a commercial artist. This means he created art for businesses. He even ran his own art studio called Beacon Art Studio.
In 1914, he decided to follow in his father's footsteps. He became a funeral director too. He owned and ran the F. Leon Harris Funeral Home in Asbury Park. Later, he also opened a funeral home in Red Bank. He continued this work until he passed away in 1973.
Working for Equal Rights
Fortune Leon Harris cared deeply about equal rights for all people. He was an active member of the Shore Area branch of the N. A. A. C. P. The NAACP is a very important group that works to ensure fairness and justice for African Americans.
His Political Career
Mr. Harris was also very involved in politics. He was the president of the United Colored Republican Clubs of Monmouth County. This group helped African Americans get involved in the Republican Party.
He was elected three times to a county job called coroner in Monmouth County. A coroner is an official who investigates deaths. He won elections in 1929, 1944, and 1965. For many years, he was the only African American person elected to a county-wide job there. Another African American, Philip N. Gumbs, was not elected until 1973. Mr. Gumbs joined the Board of Chosen Freeholders, which is like a county council.
In his later years, Fortune Leon Harris moved to Red Bank, New Jersey. He passed away there on November 2, 1973.
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