Esau Jenkins

Esau Jenkins

Esau Jenkins' iconic Volkswagen bus, used for community transportation and education.

Esau Jenkins (1910–1972) was a prominent African American civil rights leader, entrepreneur, and community organizer from Johns Island, South Carolina. He is best known for his work in improving the lives of African Americans in the Sea Islands through education, transportation, and economic development.

Early Life

Esau Jenkins was born on July 3, 1910, on Johns Island, one of the Sea Islands off the coast of South Carolina. Growing up in a rural, segregated community, Jenkins experienced firsthand the challenges faced by African Americans in the South, including limited access to education and economic opportunities.

Civil Rights Activism

Jenkins was a key figure in the civil rights movement in South Carolina. He believed that education was the foundation for achieving equality and improving the lives of African Americans. To this end, he founded the Progressive Club on Johns Island in 1948, which served as a community center and a place for adult education.

The Progressive Club

The Progressive Club was instrumental in providing literacy classes and citizenship education to African Americans, helping them to pass literacy tests required for voting. The club also hosted workshops and meetings that were crucial in the fight for civil rights.

Transportation Initiatives

The bus was a symbol of Jenkins' commitment to community service.

Jenkins recognized the need for reliable transportation to access education and employment opportunities. He purchased a Volkswagen bus, famously known as "The Jenkins Bus," to transport children to school and adults to work and educational programs. This bus became a symbol of his commitment to community service and empowerment.

Economic Development

In addition to his educational and transportation initiatives, Jenkins was involved in economic development projects. He co-founded the Citizenship Schools program, which aimed to teach literacy and civic engagement. This program was later adopted by the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and became a model for similar initiatives across the South.

Legacy

Esau Jenkins' legacy is remembered for his dedication to improving the lives of African Americans through education, transportation, and economic empowerment. His work laid the groundwork for future civil rights advancements and inspired generations of activists.

Related Pages

• Civil rights movement
• Johns Island, South Carolina
• Progressive Club
• Citizenship Schools