Thomas Monroe Campbell facts for kids

Thomas Monroe Campbell

Thomas Monroe Campbell (born in 1883, died in 1956) was a very important person in American agriculture. He was the first ever Cooperative Extension Agent in the United States. This means he was the first person to lead a special program that helped farmers learn new and better ways to grow crops and raise animals. He worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which is a government group that helps farmers and makes sure people have good food.

Campbell was famous for working closely with two other amazing leaders: Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver. He even won a special prize called the Harmon Award in 1930 because of his great work in farming. He also wrote a book called The Movable School Goes to the Negro Farmer. Many people respected him as a top public servant. Today, you can find a statue of him at the Tuskegee University Library.

Campbell and his wife, Anna, had six children. Their fourth child, Col. William A. Campbell, grew up to be a brave and highly honored member of the Tuskegee Airmen, a famous group of African American pilots during World War II.

Who Was Thomas Monroe Campbell?

Thomas Monroe Campbell was born in 1883. He grew up to become a true pioneer in helping farmers. His work changed how many people in the countryside learned about farming. He believed that by sharing knowledge, farmers could grow more food and improve their lives.

Starting the Extension Program

Campbell was chosen to lead the very first Cooperative Extension Program. Imagine a school that travels to you! That's a bit like what the Extension Program was. Instead of farmers going to a classroom, Campbell and his team went to the farmers. They showed them new tools and methods right on their farms. This made it much easier for farmers to learn and try new things.

What is a Cooperative Extension Agent?

A Cooperative Extension Agent is like a helpful teacher for farmers and families. They share the latest information from universities and research centers. This information helps people with farming, managing their homes, and even staying healthy. Campbell was the very first person to do this job for the entire country.

Working with Great Minds

Thomas Campbell worked closely with two incredibly famous people:

• Booker T. Washington: He was a leader who founded Tuskegee University. Washington believed that education and practical skills were key for African Americans to succeed. Campbell learned a lot from him.
• George Washington Carver: Carver was a brilliant scientist and inventor, also at Tuskegee. He found many new uses for crops like peanuts and sweet potatoes. Campbell worked alongside Carver, helping to share Carver's amazing discoveries with farmers.

The Movable School

One of Campbell's most famous ideas was the "movable school." This was a wagon or truck filled with farming tools, seeds, and educational materials. Campbell and his team would drive this movable school directly to farms and small communities. They would teach farmers how to use new plows, plant better seeds, and care for their animals. This hands-on learning helped many families improve their farms and their lives.

Awards and Recognition

In 1930, Thomas Campbell received the Harmon Award. This award was given to African Americans who had achieved great things in different fields. Campbell won it for his outstanding service in agriculture. It showed how much his hard work and dedication were appreciated across the nation. His book, The Movable School Goes to the Negro Farmer, tells the story of his important work and how it helped so many people.

Campbell's Family Legacy

Thomas Monroe Campbell had a family that also made a big impact. His son, William A. Campbell, became a highly respected military pilot.

Colonel William A. Campbell and the Tuskegee Airmen

William A. Campbell joined the Tuskegee Airmen, a group of African American military pilots who fought bravely during World War II. These pilots were known for their skill and courage. Colonel William A. Campbell became a decorated member, meaning he earned many awards for his service. His achievements showed the strength and determination that ran in the Campbell family.