Matthew Ricketts facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Matthew O. Ricketts
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Phototype from the Progress, June 21, 1890
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| Member of the Nebraska House of Representatives | |
| In office 1893–1897 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born |
Matthew Oliver Ricketts
April 3, 1858 Henry County, Kentucky, U.S. |
| Died | January 15, 1917 St. Joseph, Missouri, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Alice Nelson |
| Alma mater | Omaha Medical College |
| Occupation | Physician |
Matthew Oliver Ricketts (born April 3, 1858 – died January 3, 1917) was an important American politician and doctor. He made history as the first African-American member of the Nebraska Legislature. This is like the state's law-making group. He served two terms, from 1893 to 1897. Ricketts was also the first African American to graduate from the University of Nebraska College of Medicine in Omaha.
Contents
The Life of Matthew O. Ricketts
Early Life and Education
Matthew Ricketts was born in 1858 in Henry County, Kentucky. His parents were enslaved, meaning they were not free. After the American Civil War, his family moved to Boonville, Missouri. There, Matthew was able to finish school.
In 1876, Ricketts earned a degree from the Lincoln Institute. This school is now known as Lincoln University of Missouri. In 1880, he moved to Omaha, Nebraska. He was accepted into the Omaha Medical College. To pay for his classes, he worked as a janitor. In March 1884, Ricketts graduated with high honors. Soon after, he opened his own medical office in Omaha.
A Doctor and Community Leader
Dr. Ricketts quickly became known as a very careful and kind doctor. With his education and energy, he became a respected leader. He was especially important to Omaha's African-American community. People saw him as a strong and inspiring speaker.
In 1892, Dr. Ricketts was elected to the Nebraska House of Representatives. He ran as a Republican candidate. He served two terms, from 1893 to 1897. He was the first African American to serve in the Nebraska Legislature. People there thought he was one of the best speakers. They often asked for his ideas.
Dr. Ricketts helped create Omaha's Negro Fire Department Company. He also helped African Americans get jobs in city and state government. This was important because jobs were often given based on connections. He was also a member of the Prince Hall Masons. This was a group for African-American men.
After leaving the Legislature, Dr. Ricketts moved to St. Joseph, Missouri in 1903. He continued his medical work there for 14 more years. He also stayed active in politics in St. Joseph.
Making Laws and Changes
Dr. Ricketts was very active in the Nebraska Legislature. He led several committees. He even temporarily led the entire group. He introduced a bill to allow marriages between different races. This bill passed the Legislature. However, the governor, Silas A. Holcomb, did not sign it into law.
He also introduced a bill to stop businesses from refusing service to African Americans. In 1893, Nebraska lawmakers passed a measure based on his work. This law made the state's civil rights laws stronger. Dr. Ricketts also helped pass a bill about the legal age for marriage in Nebraska. He used a petition from 500 African-American women in Omaha to help make this happen.
Family Life
In 1884, after graduating from medical school, Ricketts married Alice Nelson. They had three children together. Matthew Ricketts passed away in St. Joseph, Missouri, when he was 64 years old.
See also
