Parker David Robbins facts for kids
Parker David Robbins (born in 1834, died November 1, 1917) was a brave soldier during the American Civil War. He was also one of the first Black people to become a representative in the North Carolina House of Representatives in 1868. Besides being a politician, he was also an inventor from Bertie County, North Carolina.
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Parker Robbins: A Life of Firsts
Parker David Robbins was born in 1834. He had a mixed heritage, with some Chowan Native American ancestry. He might have been born in Colerain Township, North Carolina, or in a Native American community nearby. His father was John A. Robbins. Parker was always considered a free Black person.
Before the Civil War, Parker worked as a carpenter and mechanic. He even owned a 102-acre farm in North Carolina.
Serving in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, Parker Robbins joined the fight. In 1863, he went to Norfolk, Virginia. He joined the Union Army, which was the army fighting to keep the United States together.
Parker was assigned to the 2nd U.S. Colored Cavalry. This was a special group made up of Black soldiers. He showed great leadership and became a Sergeant-Major. His time in the army ended in 1866 because he became ill. After his service, he returned home.
A Pioneer in Politics
Parker Robbins made history after the war. In August 1868, he was elected to the North Carolina General Assembly of 1868-1869. He was one of fifteen Black people chosen for this important role. He represented Bertie County in the North Carolina House of Representatives.
He was elected again to the same position for the 1870-1872 legislature. Before this, in early 1868, he also helped write the state's rules. He was a representative at the North Carolina Constitutional Convention.
Inventor and Postmaster
Parker Robbins was not just a politician and soldier. He was also an inventor! He received a special patent for two useful machines. One was a cotton cultivator, which helps farmers grow cotton. The other was a saw sharpener, used to keep saws working well.
He was also chosen to be the postmaster for the town of Harrellsville, North Carolina. This meant he was in charge of the mail service there. Parker David Robbins lived a life of many achievements. He passed away on November 1, 1917.
