On Thursday, January 17, the Morgan-Manning House lecture series continues with a program entitled “Fannie Barrier Williams, a Woman of Courage.” Christopher Albrecht will be presenting along with four students from the Oliver Middle School.
The event begins at 7 p.m. in the historic home located at 151 Main Street, Brockport. Admission is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Western Monroe Historical Society is the sponsor.
Frances “Fannie” Barrier Williams (1855-1944) was born February 12, 1855 in Brockport where she lived all of her life. She was an educated reformer and social activist, becoming one of the most noteworthy African-American women of her time.
She was part of the suffrage movement, delivered a eulogy at Susan B. Anthony’s funeral, and was a founding member of the NAACP. The presentation – prior to Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday – will reveal the impact this Brockport citizen had on her times, locally and nationally.
Christopher W. Albrecht teaches in Brockport’s Hill School and was named “2018 New York State Teacher of the Year.” He has researched the material and worked with the students for the January 17 presentation. He noted that Fannie Williams “is the first person of color to graduate from the College at Brockport in 1870. Her sister, Ella, would be the second in 1871.” And, he adds, “It should be mentioned that Fannie never once experienced prejudice here in Brockport. This is something to be very proud of.”
For more information, call 637-3645 or visit www.morganmanninghouse.org.
