Lillie Anna James facts for kids

Lillie Anna "Mother" James was an amazing American teacher. She started a special school for African American children in Pensacola, Florida. This was a very important thing to do at a time when schools were often separate. Her son, Daniel James Jr., grew up to be the first black full general in the U.S. military! Lillie Anna James is even honored as a "Great Floridian" because of her important work. She lived from June 1876 to November 3, 1957.

Her Early Life and Family

Lillie Anna Brown was born in June 1876 in Pensacola, Florida. She lived there her whole life. Her parents were William and Hattie Brown. On December 23, 1894, she married Daniel James. He was from Alabama. They had 17 children together. Sadly, many of their children died when they were young. One of her sons, Daniel James Jr., became a very famous four-star general in the U.S. Air Force.

Starting a School for Children

Lillie Anna James saw a need in her community. She decided to start her own school. It was called the Lillie Anna James Private School. She started it for her own children and other young black people in Pensacola. Over time, this school became very well-known. It grew into an important middle school and junior high school.

Her Special Rule: "Thou Shalt Not Quit"

Lillie Anna James had a special rule for her students and her own children. She called it her "11th commandment." This rule was: "Thou shalt not quit." She wanted her children to always try their best. She taught them to work hard and show they could do anything others could. This rule helped many young people believe in themselves.

Her Legacy and Home

Lillie Anna James passed away in 1957. Her old home, where she ran the school, is still in Pensacola. You can find it at 1606 Martin Luther King Boulevard. There is also a special marker in her honor. It is located in Pensacola's Memorial Garden. She is remembered for her dedication to education and her community.