HISTORY REMEMBERED — The City of Weirton has recognized the efforts of John and Robertha Williams, who opened their home to traveling African Americans and provided a safe place for them to rest during the Jim Crow era of 20th century America. With a sign which will go on display on the property where the house once stood are, from left, Mayor Dean Harris; Dunbar Center Director Earleen Jones; Beverly Branham, Darlene Gory and Stephanie Valentine, all great nieces of the Williamses; and City Manager Mike Adams. — Craig Howell
WEIRTON — Recently, a family from Weirton was honored for their significant role in supporting African Americans during a tumultuous era in U.S. history. This recognition centers on John and Robertha Williams, who provided sanctuary to travelers navigating a segregated landscape between the years of 1950 to 1954. Their efforts have now been immortalized in the historical record, particularly as their home was listed in the esteemed Negro Motorist Green Book.
“We think it’s time to recognize their efforts,” stated Mayor Dean Harris, reflecting on the importance of acknowledging the contributions of local heroes who have shaped the community’s history. The property where the Williams’ home once stood is now owned by George W. Jackson Sr. and his family, conveniently located adjacent to the Dunbar Recreation Center on Kessel Street in Weirton.
On a recent Tuesday afternoon, a heartfelt gathering took place at the Dunbar Center, where members of the Williams family came together to unveil a historical marker commemorating their great uncle’s commitment to hospitality and support. Great nieces Beverly Branham, Stephanie Valentine, and Darlene Gory were in attendance, feeling a mix of pride and nostalgia as they honored their family’s legacy.
“Our great uncle opened his home during the Green era,” Beverly Branham remarked, acknowledging the historical context that framed their relatives’ actions. The Negro Motorist Green Book was the brainchild of Victor Hugo Green, a postal worker in New York City. First published in 1936, this influential guide was crucial for African American travelers, offering them vital information about safe lodging, restaurants, beauty salons, and other establishments amidst the pervasive racism of the time.
John Williams made his way to Weirton in 1923, found his footing at Weirton Steel, and became a community figure known for his kindness and hospitality. Though he and Robertha did not have children of their own, they fostered a loving environment in their home, welcoming family members, including a niece and great nephew, and opening their doors to travelers in need of shelter.
Beyond his role as a host, Williams was also a deacon at Morning Star Baptist Church, contributing to the spiritual well-being of his community. “He was such a special person,” Stephanie Valentine reflected, highlighting the inherent risks associated with being listed in the Green Book during those fraught years. It was a brave choice to provide refuge when doing so could lead to severe repercussions.
Interestingly, despite their close familial ties to John Williams, many family members, including Gory, were previously unaware of the extent of his contributions. “None of us knew about his significance in the local history until now,” she confessed, underscoring the importance of such commemorations in preserving family legacies.
A further celebration of Williams’ life took place on Sunday during worship services at Mount Olive Baptist Church, which was attended by other relatives as well as the Jackson family. The reverberations of his legacy continue to resonate through the community, prompting Mayor Harris to announce that a copy of a proclamation honoring Williams will be kept at the Dunbar Center. Plans are also underway to display a copy of the historical marker at the Weirton Area Museum and Cultural Center, ensuring that future generations will remember the contributions of John and Robertha Williams.
