George Weaver (educator) facts for kids
George Augustus Weaver (born in November 1871, died January 20, 1939) was a very important person. He was a doctor, a surgeon, and a teacher. He helped many young Black students get an education. Because of his efforts, a library in Tuscaloosa was named after him.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Growing Up in Tuscaloosa
George Weaver was born in 1872 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. His parents were Lawrence and Lucy Elizabeth Weaver. His father, Lawrence, was a blacksmith and a businessman. He also owned land. Lawrence was a leader at the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.
George was the oldest of six children. His parents believed strongly in education. They made sure all their children went to college. George graduated from Talladega College in 1892.
Becoming a Doctor
After college, George Weaver worked as a school principal. He led a school for Black students in Gadsden, Alabama for one year. Then, he decided to study medicine. He went to Howard University.
In 1899, he earned his medical degree from Howard University. He then completed his medical training. This training happened at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland.
Contributions to His Community
A Surgeon in Tuscaloosa
In 1900, Dr. Weaver came back to Tuscaloosa. He became a surgeon at Stillman Hospital. This hospital was located on the campus of Stillman College.
Dr. Weaver was very active in his community. He was involved in his church and many community groups. He was a leader in several fraternal organizations. For example, he helped start Rescue Lodge #234 in 1905. He also held a high position in the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alabama.
Helping Students Learn
Dr. Weaver was a trustee and deacon at the First African Baptist Church. He loved to read and learn. He had a large personal library at his home.
During this time, he did something very special. He opened his personal library to Black students. This allowed them to use his books for their studies. It was a big help for young people who wanted to learn.
His Lasting Legacy
In 1960, a librarian named Mrs. Ruth Bolden made a request. She was the first librarian for a new library branch. This branch is now called the Weaver-Bolden Library. It is part of the Tuscaloosa Public Library system.
Mrs. Bolden asked that the library be named after Dr. Weaver. She wanted to honor him for his great contributions. She remembered his generosity with his books. She also wanted to recognize his help for young people in the area.
