Hamilton Hatter facts for kids

Hamilton Hatter (1856–1942) was an important African-American educator and leader. He was a professor at Storer College and the very first president of Bluefield State College in Bluefield, West Virginia. He helped shape education for many students during a challenging time in history.

Hamilton Hatter's Journey

Early Life and Education

Hamilton Hatter was born in 1856 in Charles Town, West Virginia. At that time, he was born into slavery. This meant he was not free. To earn money for his schooling, he worked hard. He was a builder, a mechanic, and even managed a sawmill. He finished his studies at Storer College in 1878.

After Storer College, he moved to Maine. There, he attended two more schools. He first went to Nichols Latin School. Then, he graduated from Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, in 1888.

A Teacher and College Leader

After college, Hatter returned to Storer College. He became a professor there. He taught important subjects like Greek, Latin, and mathematics until 1896. He also helped guide the college as a member of its Board of Trustees until 1906.

In 1895, a new school was founded in West Virginia. It was called Bluefield Colored Institute. This school was created to provide education for African-American students. The governor, Virgil A. Lewis, chose Hamilton Hatter to be its first leader. Hatter served as the principal until 1906.

Other Contributions and Legacy

Hamilton Hatter was also interested in politics. He was active in the Republican Party. In 1892, he even tried to win a seat in the West Virginia House of Delegates. This is a part of the state government.

He was also an inventor! In 1893, he received a patent for a device. This invention helped to improve how corn was harvested. Later, during World War I, Hatter spoke publicly. He supported the policies of President Wilson.

Hamilton Hatter passed away in 1942. He was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Bluefield, West Virginia. To honor his memory, Bluefield State College named its president's home "Hamilton Hatter Hall" in 1974. This shows how much he meant to the college and the community.