Hampton Virginia

Fort Monroe

Showing Shells leaving motors, Fort Monroe, Virginia

Fort Monroe, located at Old Point Comfort on a peninsula in the Chesapeake Bay, serves as a significant military stronghold guarding crucial maritime access points. Established after the War of 1812, its impressive structure encompasses about 280 acres and features a moat, drawbridges, and lush tropical plant life. Historically, it witnessed key events during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, including the famous naval battle between the Merrimack and the Monitor. Today, it remains a vital site for military operations and historical reflection.

Slave Narrative of J. H. Beckwith

J. H. Beckwith, born in 1870 in North Carolina, recounts his family’s history, emphasizing his father’s determination and skills despite his background as a mulatto. Beckwith, educated through the church and with a successful trade in carpentry, reflects on his efforts to uplift his community through ministry. He stresses the importance of self-esteem and leadership for African Americans and criticizes the younger generation’s lack of direction. The interviewer notes Beckwith’s extensive knowledge, evident in his well-furnished home with books and personal achievements.

Biography of Ezra King Longley

Ezra King Longley, a prominent early lawyer in Elk County, was born in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, in 1846. He served in the Union Army during the Civil War, rising to the rank of acting captain. After studying law, he settled in Howard, Kansas in 1870, where he built a successful legal practice. Longley had diverse experiences, including positions in government and various community roles. He married Carrie May Hall and had three children, remaining active in community affairs and Masonic organizations throughout his life.

Indian Education at Hampton and Carlisle

Group of Indian Young men after Education

An article appearing in Harper’s Magazine in April 1881 concerning the “education” taking place at the Indian schools of Carlisle, Pennsylvania and Hampton, Virginia.