William J. Winchester facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William J. Winchester
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| Member of the Delaware House of Representatives from the Delaware's 1st House of Representatives district |
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| In office 1948–1952 |
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| Wilmington City Council | |
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| Born | 1875/1876 Barclay, Maryland, U.S. |
| Died | (aged 76) Wilmington, Delaware, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Alverta Winchester |
| Children | Lem Winchester |
| Profession | Politician |
William J. Winchester (born around 1876, died 1952) was an important politician in Delaware. He served as a city council member and later became a state legislator. From 1948 to 1952, he made history as the first African American to be elected to the Delaware House of Representatives. Today, a special marker in Wilmington, Delaware, honors him and other early African American lawmakers from the state.
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Early Life and Family
William J. Winchester was born in a town called Barclay, Maryland, around the year 1876. When he was about 12 years old, in 1888, his family moved to Wilmington, Delaware.
He married a woman named Alverta. They had one son, Lem Winchester, who grew up to be a famous musician who played the vibraphone. William Winchester was also a leader in a local community group called the Odd Fellows.
Starting in Politics
William J. Winchester was a member of the Republican Party. He served on the Wilmington City Council for 16 years. This is a long time to help make decisions for a city! He left the council in 1941.
In 1944, he tried to get elected to the Delaware House of Representatives, but he didn't win that time. However, he didn't give up!
Making History in Delaware
In 1948, William J. Winchester ran for the Delaware House of Representatives again, and this time he won! This was a very important moment because he became the first Black man ever elected to serve in the Delaware House of Representatives. He was re-elected in 1950, showing that people trusted him to represent them.
While he was working as a state representative, Winchester also had another job. He was the superintendent for Wilmington's garbage collection, which means he was in charge of making sure the city's trash was picked up. In 1949, Delaware State College gave him a special award called an honorary doctor of law degree.
Later Life and Passing
William J. Winchester became sick in late 1951. Because of his illness, he missed several meetings of the state legislature. He passed away at his home in Wilmington on January 3, 1952. He was still serving his second term in office when he died.
At the time of his death, he was still an active member of the Odd Fellows and another group called the Elks. He also helped manage his church, Mount Joy Methodist Church, as a trustee and treasurer. He was also a trustee for Morgan State University.
His Lasting Legacy
William J. Winchester left behind an important legacy. In 1979, a bridge in Wilmington was named in his honor. This bridge crosses the Christina River at Third Street, reminding everyone of his contributions to the state.
See also
