John R. Scott Sr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John R. Scott, Sr. |
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| Pastor | |
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| Church | St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Jacksonville, Florida |
| Other posts | Member, Florida House of Representatives; President, Edward Waters College |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1840-41 (estimated) Virginia (born a slave) |
| Died | February 18, 1929 Jacksonville, Florida |
| Buried | Memorial Cemetery, Jacksonville, Florida |
| Denomination | African Methodist Episcopal |
| Residence | Jacksonville, Florida |
| Spouse | Emily Jane Scott (married Duval County, FL, September 7, 1868) |
| Children | Thomas D., John H, Rachael A V, Mary A C, Patrick G |
| Occupation | Minister, politician, college president |
| Profession | Minister |
| Education | Doctor of Divinity |
Reverend John Robert Scott Sr. (born around 1840-41, died February 18, 1929) was an important leader in Florida. He was a religious leader, a politician, and even a college president. He was born into slavery in Virginia.
After the American Civil War, during a time called the Reconstruction era, he became a pastor. He joined the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church. He also became a state lawmaker.
Contents
Who Was John R. Scott Sr.?
John R. Scott Sr. lived a remarkable life. He rose from being born into slavery to becoming a respected leader. He worked hard to make a difference for his community. His work helped shape Florida's future.
A Leader in the Church
In 1870, John R. Scott Sr. was chosen for an important role. He became the first pastor of St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in Jacksonville, Florida. This church was a very important place for the African American community.
Making a Difference in Politics
Besides his church work, Scott was active in politics. He served in the Florida House of Representatives. This meant he helped make laws for the state of Florida. He represented Jacksonville from 1868 to 1873. He served again in 1879.
He was a very influential politician in Jacksonville. This was during the Reconstruction Era. He was also a member of the City Council. The City Council makes decisions for the city. At one point in 1872, his group had many members in the city government. This led to big changes in how the city was run.
Leading a College
John R. Scott Sr. also played a role in education. A photograph from 1893 shows him as the president of Edward Waters College. This college is a historically Black college. Leading a college was another way he helped his community grow.
His Family's Legacy
John R. Scott Sr. had a son named John R. Scott Jr.. His son also became a minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. John R. Scott Jr. earned a special degree in divinity. He was also a professor at Edward Waters College. He taught about preaching. Like his father, John R. Scott Jr. also served in the Florida Legislature.
