The Top Black Heroes from Texas

Whether it’s Black History Month or not, you should always be paying attention to great heroes from all backgrounds and cultures. If you hail from the Lone Star State, you’re likely even more intrigued to know about some famous folks who come from the same place that you do!

Henry O. Flipper
Texas Escapes hails Flipper as “perhaps the most enigmatic figure in Texas.” The site states that he started his life off as a slave in Georgia; however, he was emancipated in 1865. He then went on to go to West Point, where he was the first black person to ever finish off four years there and then become a United States army commissioned officer.

Blind Lemon Jefferson
With a name like Blind Lemon Jefferson, true intrigue really springs forth. Texas Escapes states that this great was a famous blues musician during the early part of the 20th century. He did not live for a long time, but his music had a major impact. He was born in 1897, and he was blind. Throughout his time on earth, he did not receive a formal music education, but he still soared above the rest. A bit of mystery does surround his death. The site states that he passed of a heart attack during a Chicago snowstorm in 1929; however, no death certificate exists and the exact date remains unknown.

George Smith
People who have made strides in education are true heroes as they seek to carve pathways for the leaders of the future. Originally born into slavery, George Edward Smith was the founder of the Rufus F. Hardin High School and the Rufus F. Hardin Elementary School in Brownwood, Texas according to Texas Escapes. In addition to founding the schools, he also acted as the first principal and teacher, ensuring that the students received a quality education. In 1888, he created the Lee Chapel African American Methodist Church and married Virginia Love. The two of them would go on to have 14 children.

Nathaniel Montague
Texas Escapes shares some important information about this great man who was dubbed “The Magnificent Montague.” Nathaniel Montague was a host for a weekly radio comedy with the “Magnificent Montague” as its name. White listeners tuned in for lots of laughs, but little did they realize that their beloved show host was not white. An act such as this shows true bravery in a time when segregation and racism, unfortunately, ran rampid throughout the country. Montague forged on however, and he is still well known today. This wonderful man was born in 1928, and is well and alive today as of October in 2012.

Clearly, heroes come in all different forms. They do not all have to take the shape of Batman, Catwoman or Spider Man. They can be greats in the field of the arts, in education, in military accomplishments and music, or they can be individuals who have somehow impacted the life of another in a beautiful, positive, pure and truly inspirational manner.

Riya Jensen writes about black history, Texas pride & more at www.creditscore.net.