Delilah Leontium Beasley

Delilah Leontium Beasley was a pioneering historian and journalist. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1867, Beasley began her writing career in 1883 with the Cleveland Gazette, focusing on church and social events. After moving to Oakland, California, in 1910, she immersed herself in documenting the contributions of Black Americans to the history of the West. Her extensive research culminated in the 1919 publication of "The Negro Trail-Blazers of California," a seminal work highlighting the achievements of Black pioneers in the state.Beasley's dedication led her to become the first Black American woman to write regularly for a major metropolitan newspaper, the Oakland Tribune.Beyond journalism, Beasley was active in civic organizations, including the NAACP and the Alameda County League of Women Voters. Her unwavering commitment to preserving Black history and advocating for civil rights has left an enduring legacy.The Joy Trip Project celebrates the enduring legacy of Black American History. The Unhidden Minute is part of the Unhidden Podcast Project supported through a National Geographic Explorer Grant from the National Geographic Society, with the cooperation of the National Park Service. This series elevates the untold stories of Black American historical figures, events and cultural contributions.#unhiddenblackhistory #NationalParkService #yourparkstory #NationalGeographic #unhiddenminuteBecome a paid subscriber to the Unhidden Minute Podcast for one year and receive a copy The Adventure Gap: Changing the Face of the Outdoors 10th Anniversary Edition by James Edward Mills. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jamesedwardmills.substack.com/subscribe