Frank W. Spencer facts for kids

Captain Frank W. Spencer (born November 19, 1882 – died July 26, 1979) was an American maritime pilot and a civil rights activist. He lived in Savannah, Georgia, USA. For 30 years, he was the main pilot for the Port of Savannah. He helped make the port bigger so larger ships could use it. He also worked hard for the rights and education of African Americans in his community.

Life and Career Highlights

Frank W. Spencer was born in Savannah, Georgia, on November 19, 1882. His parents were Captain William H. and Mary Elizabeth Wilson Spencer. He went to public schools in Savannah. Later, he studied navigation and how to handle ships at the New York Nautical College.

After his studies, Frank became a licensed Master and Marine Engineer. He spent 17 years working on ships for the United States. During World War I, he managed a local office for the U.S. Shipping Bureau. He then became the Master Pilot of the Port of Savannah. He held this important job for 30 years.

Expanding the Port of Savannah

In 1917, Captain Spencer helped open the Upper Harbor's channel. This allowed big ocean ships to enter the port. This change made the port much larger. It helped Savannah grow in trade and manufacturing. In 1920, Spencer also joined the Atlantic Towing Company. He worked there as General Manager and Treasurer until 1967. From 1917 to 1964, he represented the South Atlantic region for the American Pilots Association.

Community and Civil Rights Work

Captain Spencer was very active in his community. He also worked for civil rights, which means fair treatment and equal rights for all people.

Supporting Youth and Education

He led the Chatham Area Boy Scout Council for three terms. He also started a Sea Scouting program in the area. During a time when people were separated by race (called racial segregation), he helped start a Black chapter of the Boy Scouts of America.

Spencer also served on the board of the Greenbriar Children's Center. For 18 years, he was on the Chatham County Board of Education. There, he fought for equal pay for Black and white school teachers. At the time, Black teachers were paid 20% less. He also started a Port Education Project. This project taught students how important Savannah's port was for trade.

In 1955, after he retired from the Board of Education, a new elementary school for Black students was named after him. This honored his hard work for education.

Fighting for Equality

Captain Spencer was a Vice President of the Southern Regional Council for many terms. Both he and his wife, Lillian, were delegates for the Southern Conference Educational Fund. He even received threatening letters because of his work with the NAACP. The NAACP is a group that works for the rights of African Americans. He also worked with author Lillian Smith, who wrote about racial justice.

Family Life

Frank Spencer had five children from his first marriage. In 1938, he married his second wife, Lillian (Windau) Spencer, in New York. Lillian was a big influence on Frank's community work. After he passed away, she continued much of his charitable work.

Later Years and Legacy

Captain Frank W. Spencer died in Savannah, Georgia, on July 26, 1979. After his death, a boat ramp park was named in his honor. This park helps remember his important contributions to Savannah.

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