Clara Byrd Baker

Clara Byrd Baker (June 22, 1886 – October 20, 1979) was an American educator, civic leader, and suffragist who fought for equal rights in the early 20th century. She was the first woman to vote in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Personal background Clara Olivia Byrd was born on June 22, 1886, in Williamsburg, Virginia. She was the daughter of Charles and Malvina Carey (née Braxton) Byrd. In 1905, she married William Baker, sexton of Bruton Parish Church. Together, they had four children. In 2011, her life was honored in To Be Seen as an American, by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, as one of three African-American women who "didn't accept society's limits on what they could accomplish". Additional honors have included:

Meritorious Service Award – Virginia State University Alumni Association Alumni of the Year Award – Virginia State University Alumni Association Heritage Girl Scout Award for 25 years of service

Death and legacy In 1967, Baker retired to Virginia Beach, where she continued volunteering throughout the community until her death on October 20, 1979. She is buried in Cedar Grove Cemetery in Williamsburg.

In 1989, Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools named a Williamsburg, Virginia public elementary school in honor of Baker. Clara Byrd Baker Elementary School was opened in September 1989. The school was initially built to support 600 students. In 1992, the capacity of the school was expanded to provide educational opportunities for 800 students.