The Frederick Douglass Alumni Heritage Foundation 2008 Presentation
November 13th was a memorable evening for a group of former students from the original Frederick Douglass J.H.S. "139". (140th street between 7th & Lenox Avenues.) They have formed a foundation to give back some of the valuable lessons they learned in this very worthwhile institution. The giving back will consist of discussions in the schools and scholarships to deserving students. In addition to the delicious food and fine fellowship, it was also an evening of recognition. We invited two outstanding Harlemnites and alumni of the school to attend and receive an award/ citation acknowledging their outstanding service to the community. The two who were chosen were: Dr. Edwin Claude Gilmore and Mr.George Bernard Benta, one of Harlem's leading funeral directors. The evening went well and a great time was had by all. We attracted some new members who promised to join and find other classmates. Remember, this group is made up of classmates from 1938 to 1960. All of whom will be very committed to the work entailed to educating our young people and assisting them with scholarships.
2 comments:
Is there anywhere online or otherwise that I can access old yearbooks from JHS 139?
Serendipity! I found this website that brought back warm memories. My father, Mr. B.N. Roberts, was recruited to the Douglass faculty in 1946 to teach Countee Cullen's poetry and English classes following Cullen's death. Dad taught there and at IS 10 proudly for over 20 years. He also ran the after-school recreation program. I recall as a child accompanying him to 139 where he always exhorted his students with "Men!" before addressing the matters at hand. Pride and erect posture promptly replaced any tomfoolery when students heard that exhortation. Kudos to you alums for keeping alive the spirit that your 139 experience instilled in you. Fraternally, Richard W. Roberts, United States District Judge (Ret.), District of Columbia, January 16, 2017.
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