Eartha White 1876-1974
Community Leader
Eartha White spent almost her entire life helping the people of Jacksonville, Florida. Growing up in Jacksonville, White learned the importance of making contributions to her community. White's mother, Clara, was very generous toward her neighbors and those in need. She also taught White to appreciate her African American heritage.
After years of teaching, White spent the money she had saved and opened a department store. The store was very successful, so she began buying and selling businesses. White used her profits to help people in Jacksonville. She started the only African American orphanage in Florida and opened a nursing home to care for the elderly. In addition, White taught classes at the county prison.
One of White's well-known contributions to Jacksonville was the Clara White Mission. In memory of her mother, White opened the Mission as a shelter for the homeless and for people who did not have food.
Critical Thinking
What word would you use to describe Eartha White? Explain your answer.