George Lewis Seaton facts for kids
George Lewis Seaton (born around 1822, died 1881) was an important African American man from Alexandria, Virginia. He was a skilled carpenter and also bought and sold land. He is best known for helping to build schools for African American students. Seaton also served in the government as a delegate.
A Life of Building and Helping
George Lewis Seaton was born free, meaning he was never enslaved. His father, George, was also a free Black man. His mother, Lucinda Seaton, had been enslaved at Mount Vernon but later became free.
Seaton started buying land in Alexandria in 1844. He also inherited land from his father. Over time, he became a successful real estate owner.
Around 1845, Seaton married Maria Louisa Bryant. She was also a free woman of color. They had nine children together: four daughters and five sons.
As a carpenter, Seaton built many things. In 1866, he was hired by the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands. This organization helped formerly enslaved people after the Civil War. Seaton built a school in Alexandria for them.
The school opened in 1867. At first, it served both white and free Black boys. By 1870, it became part of the Alexandria school system. From then on, it was only for African American boys. The school was officially called the Snowden School for Boys. However, many people in the community knew it as the Seaton School. Around the same time, Seaton also built the Hallowell School for Girls. This school was for African American girls.
Seaton was also a trustee for the Free School Society of Alexandria. This group raised money to buy the land where the schools were built. They collected $1,600 for this important cause.
In 1869, Seaton was elected to the Alexandria House of Delegates. This was a part of the local government. He served for one term.
His Lasting Legacy
The Seaton family lived at 404 South Royal Street in Alexandria, Virginia. Their home, known as the George Lewis Seaton House, is now a special place. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is an important historical building. George Lewis Seaton is remembered for his work as a builder, a landowner, and a supporter of education for African American children.
