Ronald Blackwood facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ronald Blackwood
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|---|---|
| Mayor of Mount Vernon | |
| In office February 4, 1985 – December 31, 1995 |
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| Preceded by | Carmella Iaboni |
| Succeeded by | Ernest D. Davis |
| In office August 29, 1976 – December 31, 1976 |
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| Preceded by | August P. Petrillo |
| Succeeded by | Thomas E. Sharpe |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 19 January 1926 Saint Andrew Parish, Jamaica |
| Died | 22 February 2017 (aged 91) New Smyrna Beach, Florida |
| Political party | Democratic (since 1981) |
| Other political affiliations |
Republican (1960–1981) |
| Spouse | Ann Griffin Blackwood |
Ronald Alexander Blackwood (January 19, 1926 – February 22, 2017) was an important American politician. He was born in Jamaica and later moved to the United States. He is best known for serving as the Mayor of Mount Vernon, New York, for eleven years. He made history by becoming the first black Mayor of Mount Vernon. He was also the first black person ever elected mayor of any city in New York state.
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Ronald Blackwood's Early Life
Ronald Blackwood was born in Saint Andrew Parish, Jamaica, on January 19, 1926. When he was 28 years old, he moved from Jamaica to the United States. He chose to live in Mount Vernon, New York, which is a New York City suburb.
Education and Career
Blackwood went to Iona College. He earned his bachelor's degree in management there. For more than thirty years, he worked for the Honeywell company. He was part of their medical electronics division in Pleasantville, New York.
A Life of Public Service
Before he became mayor, Ronald Blackwood was already serving his community. He was a member of the Westchester County Board of Supervisors. This group is now called the Westchester County Board of Legislators.
He also served on the Mount Vernon city council for four terms. This means he was elected four times to help make decisions for the city.
Becoming Mayor of Mount Vernon
Ronald Blackwood served as the Mayor of Mount Vernon from 1985 to 1996. He officially became mayor on January 25, 1985. His election was a big moment for the city and the state. He was the first black person to be elected mayor in Mount Vernon. He was also the first black person to be elected mayor in the entire state of New York.
Later Life and Legacy
Ronald Blackwood passed away on February 22, 2017. He was 91 years old. He died at his home in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. His death was due to complications from Parkinson's disease. He was survived by his wife, Ann Griffin Blackwood, and his daughter, Helen Blackwood.
