India Hamilton facts for kids
India Hamilton (born around 1879 – died April 18, 1950) was an important African-American educator. She dedicated her life to helping children learn and grow.
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Early Life and Education
India Hamilton was born in King and Queen County, Virginia. She grew up in a poor family. Her parents had been slaves before she was born. Despite these challenges, she worked hard and graduated from Howard University.
A Career Dedicated to Education
In 1913, India Hamilton began her teaching career. She taught in King William County, Virginia. At that time, schools were separated by race. She taught in a two-room school for African-American students.
Improving Schools
For nearly 20 years, India Hamilton worked as a supervisor for the Jeanes Fund. In this role, she helped communities. She worked with people to raise money for school improvements. This included building new schools, like the King William Training School.
She believed that students needed more time to learn. So, she pushed for longer school years. She also created a special "Exhibit Day." This was a day where African-American students could show off their schoolwork. It was a proud moment for them and their families.
Working Beyond Her County
India Hamilton did even more to help schools. She led the Better Schools Program for the Negro Organization Society of Virginia. This group worked to improve education for African-American students. She also served on a committee for the Virginia State Teachers Association.
She believed teachers and colleges should work together. She promoted many projects to make schools better. Because of her dedication, people called her "the children's friend."
Legacy and Honors
India Hamilton passed away in 1950. She is buried in the graveyard of the Third Union Baptist Church in King William County.
Lasting Recognition
King William County honored India Hamilton in 1952. A new school was named after her and Samuel B. Holmes. It was called Hamilton-Holmes High School. More recently, a middle school was also named in their honor.
The Negro Organization Society named a camp after her. It was called the India Hamilton Camp. This camp was located on the York River.
In 2019, the Library of Virginia recognized her. She was named one of their Virginia Women in History. Her name is also on the Wall of Honor at the Virginia Women's Monument. These honors show how much she helped students and communities.
