Lucy Gamble facts for kids

Lucinda (Lucy) Anneford W. Gamble was an important teacher and community leader in Omaha, Nebraska. She made history as the first Black teacher in the Omaha Public Schools. Lucy taught at Dodge School and Cass School between 1895 and 1901. She was also known for her work helping others in the community.

Lucy Gamble's Early Life and Education

Lucy Gamble was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on September 8, 1875. Her family had a mix of French Canadian, Native American, and African-American backgrounds. Her father, William R. Gamble, moved to Lincoln from Mobile, Alabama. Her mother, Evaline, was born in New Hampshire.

Lucy was the oldest of eight children. When she was five years old, her family moved to Omaha. She went to Dodge School and then Pacific School, where she finished in 1889. Lucy then graduated from Omaha Central High School in 1893. She continued her studies at Omaha Normal School, a special school for teachers, graduating in 1895.

Her Family Life

On June 27, 1901, Lucy Gamble married Reverend John Albert Williams. He was an Episcopal minister. They had three children: a son named Worthington, and two daughters, Catherine and Dorothy E. Their daughter, Dorothy, was the first Black student to graduate from the University of Nebraska-Omaha in 1924. Reverend Williams passed away in 1933.

Lucy Gamble's Teaching Career

After finishing her teaching studies, Lucy Gamble started teaching at Dodge School. This school was later replaced by the Central Police Department building. When Dodge School closed, she moved to teach at Cass School. Lucy was a dedicated teacher who helped many students.

A Leader in Her Community

Lucy Gamble was not just a teacher; she was also a very active leader in her community. She helped many different groups and causes.

Helping the Episcopal Church

Lucy was a delegate to the yearly meeting of the Episcopal Diocese of Nebraska. This means she was chosen to represent her church at important discussions.

Supporting the Elderly

For ten years, Lucy was the head of the board for Omaha's Negro Old People's Home. She worked hard to make sure older people in the community had a safe and caring place to live.

Working for Civil Rights

Lucy Gamble was also on the board of the Omaha chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The NAACP is an important organization that works for equal rights for Black people.

Other Community Roles

She also served on the board for the Omaha Community of Christ. Additionally, Lucy was on the governing board of the Omaha Community Chest. This organization helped raise money for many different charities in the city. She was also an important member of the Omaha Colored Women's Club, which was led by Ella Mahammitt.

Lucy Gamble Williams passed away on August 23, 1958, in Cleveland, Ohio. Her life showed how one person can make a big difference as a teacher and a community leader.