As we enter the election season, it’s important to look back at some of the key people, like Chester James, Sr., who made it possible for all St. Pete residents to participate in the democratic process. Pictured here receiving an award from Fred G. Minnis, Sr., James arrived in St. Petersburg in 1911 and immediately began looking after his community of Methodist Town. A man of many talents, James worked hard and pressured City Hall over the years to improve the neighborhood and crack down on landlords who neglected their properties. James was also involved in the Civil Rights movement, registering black voters. Both the NAACP, and President Lyndon B. Johnson honored him for registering 1,000 voters. In 1974 the City Council named him Mayor of Methodist Town and later renamed the neighborhood to Jamestown in his honor. James died in 1979 at age 95.
For more information about the St. Petersburg Museum of History exhibits, hours, and ticket pricing visit SPMOH.com.
