John Hudson Riddick facts for kids

John Hudson Riddick (born April 1, 1848 – died August 5, 1895) was an important leader. He was a teacher, a community helper, and a minister. He served in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church. In 1872, he was chosen to be part of the Norfolk, Virginia city council. He led many AME churches and was a key figure in church meetings.

Early Life and Learning

John Hudson Riddick was born on April 1, 1848, in Sunbury, North Carolina. He was born into slavery. He was owned by a man named Rev. Isaac Riddick Hunter. In 1857, they moved to Norfolk, Virginia.

When the American Civil War (1861–1865) began, John Riddick worked for his owner. Later, he left and helped at a hospital. He worked for the 7th New York Independent Light Artillery until 1864. After that, he worked at the custom-house in Norfolk.

In 1864, he worked under Major J. H. Hudson. After President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, Major Hudson was removed. Riddick then moved to Pennsylvania. There, he started studying theology, which is the study of religious faith. He continued his studies in Boston, Massachusetts. He also studied medicine. He graduated from the Boston University School of Theology.

His Work and Leadership

In 1869, John Riddick returned to Virginia. He worked as a doctor for a short time. But on July 4, 1869, he decided to become a minister. He worked as a missionary, spreading his faith.

In 1872, he was elected to the city council in Norfolk. This meant he helped make decisions for the city. He was also appointed as a United States deputy marshal. Later, he became an ordained minister. This happened at Zoar M. E. Church in Philadelphia.

Riddick was a respected leader in his community. By 1880, he had moved to Chestertown, Maryland. He helped push for black teachers to be hired in black public schools. This was in Baltimore in 1880.

He also supported a campaign against alcohol in Maryland. This campaign was led by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper and William Daniel. He also spoke out against the murders of African Americans. These events happened during the Danville riots in 1883.

John Riddick served as a pastor at several churches. These included churches in Chestertown, Maryland, Philadelphia, and Wilmington, Delaware. He finished his career at Bainbridge Street Church in Philadelphia. He retired in April 1893.

Other Important Activities

John Riddick also wrote for the AME church newspapers. He was an editor for the Conference Advocate. He also edited the Delaware Conference Bulletin. He was an important member of the Washington Conference. Later, he was a leader in the Delaware Conference of the AME church. He was also active in the Grand Army of the Republic. This was a group for Civil War veterans.

Personal Life

John Riddick was married to Amelia A. Riddick. He became sick with tuberculosis in April 1893. He passed away in Chester Heights, Pennsylvania, on August 5, 1895. His funeral was held at the Bainbridge Street Methodist Episcopal Church. He was buried at Olive Cemetery. He was survived by his wife and two children. His wife passed away on April 4, 1895.