Two of Memphis’ most accomplished African-Americans spoke to students at Hamilton Middle School Friday, as part of an event known as “History Makers.” It’s the largest African-American video oral history archive in the U.S.
Shelby County’s first black mayor, A C Wharton and business man Fred Davis, the first African-American to open an insurance agency in Memphis, shared their stories of inspiration and perseverance.
The “History Makers” program works to put black leaders in direct contact with young people, to tell their stories and encourage students’ excellence.
“If you have good discipline, good study habits, you’re willing to stick with it, even if you fail, you still pop back up and do your very best, that will follow you,” says Wharton.
“Our students need to know that African-Americans can do anything they set their dreams to,” says Hamilton Middle Principal Audrey Johnson.
