Helen Lemme facts for kids

Helen Lemme (born February 25, 1904 – died December 15, 1968) was an important African-American person who worked hard for civil rights. She spent most of her life in Iowa City, Iowa. She fought for fairness and equal treatment for everyone.

Helen Lemme's Early Life and Education

Helen Lemme was born Frances Helen Renfrow in Grinnell, Iowa, on February 25, 1904. She was the oldest of six children. To help her family, she worked as a housekeeper. When she was a student, she won an essay contest. But she wasn't given the gold medal prize because of her race. This unfairness likely showed her early on the challenges many faced.

Lemme finished high school in Grinnell and received a $5 scholarship. In 1923, she started college at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. Two years later, in 1925, she moved to the University of Iowa in Iowa City. There, she studied science and biology. She also became the president of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority.

After graduating, Lemme first taught at Lander University in Greenwood, South Carolina. After one year, she came back to Iowa City. On August 26, 1929, she married Allyn Lemme. She then took a teaching job at Alabama State Teachers College in Montgomery, Alabama. This school is now known as Alabama State University.

Lemme later returned to Iowa City. She planned to get a master's degree. However, her plans changed when she had her first son, Lawrence, in 1931. She had another son, Paul, in 1935.

Helping Students and Fighting for Rights

The Lemmes opened their home in Iowa City to African-American students. At that time, many Black students were not allowed to live in university dorms. This changed in 1946. Their home at 603 S. Capitol Street became a safe and welcoming place for these students. Famous musician Duke Ellington even played at one of their house parties once!

Helen Lemme spent her life working for the rights of Black people and women. She was a very active member of the Democratic Party. She held several important roles, like being a precinct committeewoman. She also represented her community at state and county meetings. She was part of the Democratic Party Black Caucus. In 1944, she pushed for more Black voters to be represented at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

Locally, Lemme was involved in many groups. She worked with the Human Rights Commission. She was also part of the Iowa City Area Council of Churches. In 1946, she was elected President of the Iowa City League of Women Voters. This group works to help people vote and understand politics. In 1955, she was named Iowa City Woman of the Year. A few years later, she became the first Black woman in Iowa City to be awarded the Best Citizen of the Year.

Helen Lemme also worked as a laboratory research technician. She died on December 15, 1968, in a fire at her home.

Helen Lemme's Lasting Legacy

Helen Lemme's hard work and dedication are still remembered today. In 1970, a new elementary school in Iowa City was named Helen Lemme Elementary School in her honor.

In 1984, African-American graduate students at the University of Iowa started the Helen Lemme Reading Club. This club was a place for students to talk about books by or about Black people. It also served as a support group for African-American students living in a mostly white community. Her legacy continues to inspire people to work for fairness and community.