John E. Bush (Mosaic Templars of America) facts for kids

John Edward Bush (1856-1916) was an important American leader. He helped start the Mosaic Templars of America, a group that supported African Americans. Bush was also a teacher, a postal worker, and a successful businessman.

Bush was born in 1856 in Moscow, Tennessee. At that time, he was born into slavery. During the U.S. Civil War, many enslaved people were moved south. Young John and his mother were taken to Arkansas.

He grew up in a small home with his 11 brothers and sisters. His mother was a nurse and worked hard. It was often tough to find enough food. John's mother tried to get her children an education. However, John did not go to school for very long.

When he was old enough to work, John became an apprentice to a brick-maker. He learned how to make bricks until he was 15 years old. After that, he started teaching in country schools. While teaching, he learned a lot by reading books.

Early Business and Public Service

While still a teacher, John Bush made his first big business move. He bought a piece of land for $150. He had to pay for it in small amounts each month. John worked hard and saved his money. He paid off the land in just six months when he was 19.

Soon after, he built a house on his land and got married. He became a teacher at Capitol Hill School. However, he lost his job right after getting married. He then worked in Hot Springs for a while.

In 1884, Bush returned to run for county clerk. He did not win, possibly because of unfair election practices. He had to go back to teaching in the country. Later, he got a job as a railway postal clerk. He worked in the mail service for about ten years. During this time, he also started buying and selling land.

Later Career and Leadership

John Bush lost his job in the mail service when Grover Cleveland became president. He went back to teaching again. He had been a superintendent of mails in Little Rock. After teaching for several more years, he received a new important job. President Benjamin Harrison appointed him as the Receiver of the General Land Office. This meant he helped manage public lands.

Along with Chester W. Keatts, John Bush started the Mosaic Templars of America. This group was a mutual benefit and helpful organization. It provided support and services to its members, especially African Americans.

John Bush became a very important landowner in Little Rock and its nearby areas. He passed away in 1916.