Monroe School Neighborhood

Many African Americans living in the Monroe School neighborhood took a deep interest in their community and the betterment of their race. They helped found the local branch of the NAACP and joined legal battles to end discrimination. Others joined clubs and organizations that supported a wide range of causes, from presenting the works of Shakespeare to fighting to pass anti-lynching laws. The Monroe Mother's League and the school chapter of the Colored Parent Teacher Association were particularly active, keeping a watchful eye on the school and continually demanding that the School Board make improvements. Among notable neighbors, Mamie Williams, of 1503 Quincy Street, was a Topeka educator for 42 years who inspired generations of the city's children, and Williams Science and Fine Arts Magnet School was later named in her honor. McKinley Burnett, of 1527 Monroe Street and 1522 Quincy Street, was an energetic community activist who served as president of the local NAACP chapter at the time of Brown v. Board of Education.

Topeka, Kansas · United States