Isaac Jenkins facts for kids

Isaac Jenkins (born 1846, died 1911) was an important American politician. He served in the Florida House of Representatives during the 1880s.

Isaac Jenkins's Early Life and Freedom

Isaac Jenkins was born on August 10, 1846, in Leon County, Florida. He was an African American person born into slavery. He lived on the farm of his owner, General Robert Butler.

This was until the American Civil War started in 1861. During the war, Isaac worked as a cook for the Confederate Army. He gained his freedom when the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863. This important document declared many enslaved people free.

Life After Slavery and Family

After becoming free, Isaac Jenkins moved to Tallahassee. He worked as a tinner, which means he made things from thin metal sheets, for two years. Later, he became a store clerk.

In 1860, he married Mary Adkerson. He also worked as a painter and as a sexton for the city cemetery. A sexton is someone who takes care of a church or cemetery.

Isaac Jenkins's Political Career

Isaac Jenkins became involved in politics. In 1876, he served as a councilman for the city of Tallahassee. A councilman helps make decisions for the city.

He was then elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1880. He was elected again in 1882. This meant he served in the 1881 and 1883 sessions of the Florida House. He represented Leon County, where he was born. Charles Rollins and Wallace S. Weeks also served as Representatives from Leon County alongside him.

Later Life and Legacy

Isaac Jenkins was a member of the Baptist church. He passed away on November 30, 1911, in Leon County, Florida. His life showed a journey from slavery to becoming a respected politician in Florida.