Phillip S. Bolling facts for kids

Phillip S. Bolling (born around 1849 – died April 18, 1892) was an African-American man who worked as a brick mason and later became a politician. In 2013, Phillip Bolling and his father, Samuel P. Bolling, were honored by the state of Virginia. They were recognized for their important work in the Virginia House of Delegates between 1869 and 1890.

Early Life and Work

Phillip Bolling was born into slavery around 1849. His parents were Samuel P. and Ellen Bolling. After the American Civil War ended, his family moved to Cumberland County, Virginia.

In Cumberland County, Phillip worked on his father's farm. He also learned the skill of being a brick mason. This meant he built things using bricks, like walls and buildings. He worked in his father's brickyard, helping to make and lay bricks.

Becoming a Politician

In 1883, Phillip Bolling decided to run for a political office. He wanted to join the Virginia House of Delegates. This is a group of people who make laws for the state of Virginia. He ran as a member of the Readjuster Party. This party wanted to change how the state paid its debts.

However, the Democratic Party challenged his right to be in office. They said he lived in Prince Edward County, Virginia, not in the areas he wanted to represent, which were Buckingham and Cumberland counties.

Winning the Election

Despite the challenges, Phillip Bolling won the election! He was chosen to be part of several important groups in the House of Delegates. These groups included the Committees on Banks, Currency, and Commerce, and on Rules.

Losing His Seat

Even after he won, the Democratic Party kept trying to remove him. They said he was not eligible, even though there was a lot of proof that he was. This time, they succeeded. Phillip Bolling was removed from his position in early 1884. The next year, his father, Samuel P. Bolling, successfully ran for the same position.

Later Life and Passing

After leaving office, Phillip Bolling married Harriet T. Jackson. They were married on March 31, 1887. He continued to be involved in public service. He served on the board of supervisors for Prince Edward County.

In March 1892, Phillip Bolling became very sick. He was admitted to a care facility in Petersburg. He passed away on April 18, 1892, from an illness called tuberculosis.

See also

• African-American officeholders during and following the Reconstruction era