Troy Porter facts for kids

Troy Porter was an important person who worked as a plumber, a politician, and a leader for civil rights in Paris, Illinois. He helped make life better for many people.

The Life of Troy Porter

Early Life and Moving to Illinois

Troy Porter was born on April 15, 1855, in Fayette County, Kentucky. His mother, Winnie Porter, had been born into slavery. His father, whose name might have been Troy or John Porter, joined the Union Army during the American Civil War (1861-1865). Sadly, his father died in a battle called the Battle of Perryville.

After his father's death, Winnie and Troy escaped to a safe place called Camp Nelson in Kentucky. Later, they moved to Ripley, Ohio. In 1865, a Union Army officer named Rev. Granville Moody helped them move to Paris, Illinois.

Starting His Career

When Troy was just eleven years old, he began learning the plumbing trade. This included working with gas and steam pipes. On November 21, 1876, he started his own business. He became a successful plumber in his community.

Troy also became a key member of the local Republican Party. In 1882, he was chosen to be the superintendent of the Paris Water Works. This meant he was in charge of the town's water system. Later, in 1885, he was elected as the town clerk. He was re-elected to this job in 1887.

A Leader in His Community

Troy Porter was part of many social groups that helped people. In 1877, he joined the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows. This was a friendly society that supported its members. He served as a district secretary for this group from 1881 to 1886.

Fighting for Civil Rights

Troy Porter was a strong supporter of civil rights for African Americans. In 1895, he became a leader in the Illinois branch of the National Afro-American League. This group worked to improve the lives of Black people and protect their rights. They were especially concerned about Black miners who faced problems during the 1895 Spring Valley, Illinois race riots. Troy Porter was an important member of the league's executive committee.

He continued his work for civil rights as a member of the Afro-American State Protective League of Illinois. In 1898, he was a delegate at a convention for African Americans. This meeting happened at the same time as the 1898 World's Fair in Omaha, Nebraska. In July 1914, Troy Porter also attended the Negro National Education Congress in Oklahoma City as a delegate.

Later Life

Troy's mother, Winnie Porter, lived a very long life and passed away in 1909 at the age of 101. Troy Porter married a woman named Cora. He died on August 25, 1929, in Terre Haute, Indiana.