Featured Biographical Sketch – June 2025

 

Early Life and Education

Alfred W. Harris was a prominent African American attorney and legislator who made significant contributions to Dinwiddie County and the Commonwealth of Virginia during the post-Reconstruction era. Born free in Fairfax County, Virginia, in 1853, Harris was the son of Henry and Jemima Harris. He attended public schools in Alexandria and studied law privately under George W. Mitchell, a Black attorney. Harris furthered his education at Howard University Law School, graduating in 1881.¹

Legal and Political Career

After being admitted to the Virginia bar in 1880, Harris relocated to Dinwiddie County, where he established a legal practice and operated a 12.5-acre farm. His involvement in local politics led to his election to the Virginia House of Delegates in 1881, representing Dinwiddie County. Harris served four consecutive terms until 1889.¹

During his tenure, Harris was instrumental in the establishment of the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (now Virginia State University) in 1882. He introduced the bill chartering the institution and served as its first secretary of the board of visitors.³

Personal Life

In 1884, Harris married Ida R. Morris of Prince William County. The couple had several children and resided in Dinwiddie County. Census records from 1900⁴ and 1910 list Harris as a lawyer and Ida as a schoolteacher.²

Death and Legacy

Alfred W. Harris passed away on March 24, 1920, in Petersburg, Virginia, due to arteriosclerosis complicated by a stroke. He was interred at Blandford Cemetery in Petersburg.²

Sources

1. "Alfred W. Harris (1853–1920)." Encyclopedia Virginia.
2. "Alfred W. Harris." Wikipedia.
3. "Alfred W. Harris (1881)." A History of the Virginia House of Delegates.
4. "Dinwiddie, Virginia, United States records," images, FamilySearch https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:S3HT-67D7-N26?view=explore : Jun 3, 2025), image 90 of 349; United States. National Archives and Records Administration. Image Group Number: 004117874

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Disclaimer

This biographical sketch was prepared by ChatGPT for Ed Olsen, Coordinator of the Dinwiddie County USGenWeb site. Ed Olsen has reviewed and verified the content for accuracy and relevance to the site's mission.