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John Willis Menard is the first African-American member of the House...



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February 28, 1869

NEW YORK TIMES, February 28, 1869 John Willis Menard has the distinction of being the first African-American to be elected to the House of Representatives, representing Louisiana, and consequently on February 27 he became the first to address the chamber. See the hyperlink for more on him.
This issue has a nice front page, first column report of this notable event under the heading: "Washington" "The Colored Member from Louisiana Rejected by the House" with the report under the subhead: "Contested Election Cases" reading in part: "...The House witnessed a scene today such as has never before occurred in the history of the country's legislation. Mr. J. Willis Menard, the colored claimant of the seat from the Second Congressional District of Louisiana, was allowed fifteen minutes to advocate his claims, as was also Mr. Caleb S. Hunt, his opponent...Mr. Menard took the seat of Mr. Allison, of Iowa, and made a compact and logical argument in behalf of his own claims. His manner was calm & self-possessed...the colored people especially were in a high state of excitement over the event..." with more.
Great to have this notable content on the front page of this famous title. Complete in 8 pages, very nice condition.
 

Category: Post-Civil War