This Black History Month, you’re invited to celebrate some of the brave and resilient people who helped build the diverse and vibrant community we enjoy today.
In 1961, just four years after the integration of Little Rock Central High School, Reverend James P. Russell, a retired Army veteran and PWC NAACP President, decided that the integration of Prince William County Public Schools would start with his own family. His 13-year-old daughter, Joyce, became the first Black student at Gar-Field Senior High School.
Escorted inside by future country music legend Emmylou Harris, Joyce did not experience an easy transition. Joyce faced harassment and even Klan violence at her family’s home. Still, she persevered and graduated in 1965—just one year after “The Courageous Four” became the first Black educators to teach in the County’s schools.
From pioneers like the Russell family and The Courageous Four, to homegrown, world-class athletes such as Olympic gold medalist Benita Fitzgerald-Brown, Prince William continues to shape national stories. Discover more by visiting stops (virtual or in-person) on the County’s African American & Black History Trail. In telling these stories, we honor the courage that brought us this far and that will carry us into the future.
View the recorded presentations seen at the 7th Annual Prince William/Manassas History Symposium held at the Old Manassas Courthouse on Saturday, March 26, 2022.
This panel discussion titled, The “Courageous Four”: Integration of Prince William County Schools, features Zella Brown and Benita Fitzgerald Mosley.
Zella Brown is the only surviving member of the “Courageous Four.” In the 1960’s, Zella was one of four African American teachers moved to four all white elementary schools to integrate the all- white Prince William County faculty.
Benita Fitzgerald Mosley is an Olympic Gold Medal winner and daughter of Fannie W. Fitzgerald spoke about her mother’s experiences as a member of the “Courageous Four.” Fannie was one of the first African American teachers to teach in an all white school helping end segregation in PWC schools.