Richmond to unveil memorial plaque for first Black firefighters

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Richmond Fire Department and other local organizations will be hosting an event in honor of Virginia's first Black firefighters next week.

On Tuesday, July 1, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Main Street Train Station, the Richmond Fire Department will host an event honoring the contributions of the first professional Black firefighters in Virginia.

According to the City of Richmond, in the 1950s, a significant moment of history was made in the fight for civil rights and equality with the Commonwealth's first Black firefighters being hired, especially in a time when African Americans had to fight for rights and freedoms.

Two of the honorees include Harvey S. Hicks, Richmond's first Black fire captain (1961), and Douglas P. Evans, who died along with Captain Hicks in an heroic rescue attempt in the community.

On July 6, 1963, the Richmond Fire Department crossed a major milestone towards justice and equality by integrating its fire department.

The City of Richmond said the names of Virginia's first firefighters will be placed on a memorial plaque at the former location of Richmond's Engine Company No. 9.

For more information, contact Carol Adams, Retired Henrico County Chief Edwin Smith or Thomas Williams at ccvc87@aol.com.