James H. Sills Jr. facts for kids

James H. Sills Jr. was born in 1931. He is an American politician. He made history as the first African-American mayor of Wilmington, Delaware. Before becoming mayor, he was a representative in the Delaware House from 1984 to 1992.

Early Life and Public Service

James H. Sills Jr. was born in North Carolina in 1931. In 1959, he moved to Wilmington with his wife. There, he worked for the Family Court of Delaware. He also became the president of the Wilmington branch of the NAACP. The NAACP is a civil rights organization.

Teaching and Community Work

From 1972 to 1997, Mr. Sills taught at the University of Delaware. He helped start the Urban Agent Program. In 1987, he created the Delaware Community Reinvestment Action Council. This group helps communities get fair access to financial services.

Helping Schools and City Government

In 1978, Mr. Sills successfully managed the desegregation of schools in Wilmington. This meant bringing students of all races together in schools. In the 1970s, he was elected to the New Castle County School Board. He later became its president. He also served on the Wilmington City Council.

Political Career

From 1984 to 1992, James Sills Jr. served as a representative. He represented the Third District in the Delaware House of Representatives. This is part of the state's law-making body.

Becoming Mayor of Wilmington

In 1992, Mr. Sills ran for mayor of Wilmington. He won against the current mayor, Daniel Frawley, in the primary election. Then, he won the general election against Beatrice Patton Carroll. He became the first African-American person to serve as mayor of Wilmington.

Reelection and Later Years

Mr. Sills was reelected as mayor in 1996. He won with 61% of the votes. In 2000, he ran for mayor again but was defeated by James M. Baker.

Family Life

James H. Sills Jr. is married to Evelyn Prescott Sills. They have three children together. Their children are James H. Sills III, Mark Sills, and Julie Sills. His son, James Sills III, is currently the President and CEO of Mechanics and Farmers Bank. This bank is located in Durham, North Carolina.