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September 26

Alexander Twilight
This date marks the birth of Alexander Lucius Twilight in 1795. He was, according to all available information, was the first African-American college graduate.

Alexander Twilight was born in Corinth, Vt., to a free Black family. He graduated from Middlebury College in 1823, with his baccalaureate degree, making him, the first African American to receive a degree from an American college. He was licensed to preach by the Presbyterian Church and served several Congregational churches.

Twilight became principal of the Orleans County Grammar School in Brownington, VT, and in 1836, built a massive three-story granite building, Athenian Hall, which became Brownington Academy. In 1836, Twilight also served in the Vermont state legislature, the first African American to do so.

He died in 1857.

Reference:
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT. 05753
 

    

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