Wesley Augustus Williams facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wesley Augustus Williams
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Wesley Augustus Williams in 1915
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| Born | August 26, 1897 |
| Died | July 3, 1984 (aged 86) |
| Known for | First African-American officer in the New York City Fire Department |
| Parent(s) | James Henry Williams Lucy Metrash |
Wesley Augustus Williams (born August 26, 1897, died July 3, 1984) was a very important person in the history of the New York City Fire Department. He was the first African-American officer to be promoted to lieutenant in 1927. He was also the third African-American person to join the New York Fire Department. Later, in 1940, he helped start a group called the Vulcan Society.
A Firefighter's Journey
Early Life and Inspiration
Wesley Augustus Williams was born in Manhattan, New York City, on August 26, 1897. His parents were James Henry Williams and Lucy Metrash.
He became interested in becoming a firefighter after reading about Samuel J. Battle, who was the first African-American person to join the New York City police department. Wesley wanted to follow in his footsteps and serve his community.
Joining the Fire Department
The first African-American person to join the New York City Fire Department was William H. Nicholson in 1898. Wesley Williams worked hard to join the department. He scored very high on his written test. He also got a perfect score on his physical test, which checks how strong and fit a person is.
All people who want to become firefighters need a special letter called a character reference. This letter shows that they are a good person. Wesley's character reference was written by a famous person: former U.S. president Theodore Roosevelt.
Even with such a strong recommendation, Wesley was put on a waiting list. Other people were hired before him. Finally, he joined the New York City Fire Department on January 10, 1919. He was sent to Engine Company 55 in Manhattan. In 1927, Wesley Williams was promoted to lieutenant. This made him the first African-American officer in the department.
His Legacy
Wesley Augustus Williams was not just a firefighter; he was a leader. In 1940, he helped create the Vulcan Society. This group supports African-American firefighters and works for fairness in the fire department.
Wesley Augustus Williams passed away on July 3, 1984, at the Physicians Hospital in Forest Hills, New York City. He was 86 years old. His work helped open doors for many others.
