Millie Lawson Bethell Paxton facts for kids

Millie Lawson Bethell Paxton (February 2, 1875 – July 2, 1939) was an important American leader from Virginia. She worked hard for her community, helped people, and fought for women's right to vote.

Millie Paxton's Early Life and Education

Millie Paxton was born on February 2, 1875, in Pittsylvania County, Virginia. Her mother was Alice Lawson. Millie went to Virginia Seminary and graduated from the Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute in 1895.

In 1895, she married William H. Paxton. They had two sons and one daughter. Her husband passed away in 1901. After his death, Millie worked many jobs. Her main job was as a truant officer for the African-American schools in Roanoke. A truant officer helps make sure kids go to school.

Working for the Community and Women's Rights

Millie Paxton was a very active person in her community. By 1905, she had started local groups for the Independent Order of Calanthe. These were women's organizations connected to the Knights of Pythias. She was also a leader in the Missionary Society at the First Baptist Church in Roanoke.

For several years, Millie was the president of the women's group at Burrell Memorial Hospital. This hospital was important because it served African Americans during a time when many places were segregated. She also became the first president of the Ideal Garden Club.

After World War I, Millie led the Roanoke group of the Better Homes in America organization. This group helped families create better homes. She also helped start the Phyllis Wheatley branch of the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) in Roanoke. The YWCA helps young women and girls. After it officially opened in 1923, she led its House Committee.

Millie was also a founding member of the Virginia group of the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs. This organization worked to improve the lives of African American women and families.

Helping Women Vote

Millie Paxton was a strong supporter of women's right to vote. She was the president of the Colored Women's Voting Club in Roanoke. After the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was passed in 1920, women across the country could vote. Millie's club helped 655 Black women in Roanoke register to vote by November 2, 1920. This was a huge step for equal rights.

Supporting Veterans and Civil Rights

Millie's oldest son, William Herman Paxton, died in France during World War I. After a local group of the American Legion was formed in 1933, Millie became the president of its women's auxiliary. This group was named The Herman Paxton Post No. 161 (Colored) in honor of her son.

Millie also worked with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The NAACP is a very important organization that fights for civil rights for African Americans. In 1934 and 1935, Millie led successful efforts to get more members for the NAACP. In 1936, she helped raise money for the Scottsboro Boys. These young men were falsely accused of a crime, and the NAACP worked to help them.

Later Life and Remembering Millie Paxton

Millie Paxton passed away on July 2, 1939, in Roanoke. She was buried at Lincoln Burial Park.

After she died, a Virginia newspaper described her as "one of Roanoke's most widely known and beloved colored citizens." They said she was active "in all phases of civic and religious work." Millie Paxton is remembered for her dedication to her community and her fight for justice and equality.