James Heyward Blackwell

James Heyward Blackwell (February 5, 1864 – October 14, 1931) was an American educator and businessman. He was one of the first African Americans to serve as a principal in Virginia, founded several financial services companies for African Americans, and is the namesake of the Richmond neighborhood of Blackwell and the J.H. Blackwell Elementary School.

Early life and education James Heyward Blackwell was born into slavery on February 5, 1864 in Marion, Virginia, the eldest of four children. By 1870, Blackwell's family had moved to Manchester, Virginia. Although his parents could not write or read, they encouraged Blackwell to pursue an education. In 1872, Blackwell began being tutored by Anthony Binga Jr., the only African American teacher in the public schools in Manchester.

In 1880, Blackwell graduated from the Richmond Theological Institute. He later attended Virginia Union University and received a Ph.D. in philosophy from Princeton University.

Career

Education Blackwell started his teaching career in 1880, first working as a teacher in New Kent County, and later in Manchester. The first school for Black Americans, the Dunbar School, opened in Manchester in 1882, and Blackwell was selected as one of the first teachers. In 1888, he became principal of the school. Blackwell was credited with creating the high school curriculum at the school. Blackwell also served as president of the Richmond Business College. Blackwell is the namesake of Richmond's Blackwell neighborhood and the Blackwell Community Center.

In 2014, Blackwell was named as a Strong Men and Women in Virginia History honoree by the Library of Virginia.