Tazewell Branch facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Tazewell Branch
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | May 13, 1828 |
| Died | April 30, 1925 (aged 96) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Politician, shoemaker, grocer, blacksmith |
Tazewell Branch (born May 13, 1828 – died April 30, 1925) was an important person in American history. He was born into slavery but became a skilled shoemaker. Later, he became a politician. He was elected twice to serve in the Virginia House of Delegates. This is a group of people who make laws for the state of Virginia.
His daughter, Mary Elizabeth Branch, became the president of Huston–Tillotson University. At that time, it was called Tillotson College. She also went to Virginia State University, which was then known as Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute. A building at Virginia State University, called Branch Hall, is named after her.
Contents
The Life of Tazewell Branch
From Slavery to Freedom
Tazewell Branch was born into slavery on May 13, 1828. This happened in a place called Prince Edward County, Virginia. He worked as a house servant and a shoemaker. He was enslaved until he gained his freedom. This freedom is called emancipation.
Tazewell could read and write. People who knew him thought he was very smart. These skills helped him a lot after he became free. Around 1859, he married his wife, Harriet Lacy. They had about ten children together.
A Career in Public Service
Tazewell Branch owned land in Farmville. He was very involved in local politics. In 1873, he was chosen to be a Delegate. This meant he would help make laws for the state. He was elected again in 1875. Some people from his opponent's political party even voted for him.
However, Tazewell decided not to run for a third term. He had grown tired of politics. After his time in the House of Delegates, he worked as an assistant assessor. This job involved helping to figure out taxes. He left this position in October 1881.
Later Years and Legacy
After his political career, Tazewell Branch went back to being a shoemaker. He also tried running a grocery store. But he did not find much success with either business. He continued to live in Farmville until about 1911. Then, he moved to New Jersey.
Tazewell Branch passed away in Camden, New Jersey on April 30, 1925. His life showed how someone could overcome challenges. His daughter's achievements also continued his family's legacy of education and leadership.
See also
