Barney Ford
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Barney Lancelot Ford (January 22, 1822 – December 22, 1902) was an escaped slave who became a wealthy entrepreneur and civil-rights pioneer in Colorado. Ford persevered in his quest for new businesses despite barriers due to racism, war, fire and unscrupulous partners. He was particularly interested in establishing barbershops, restaurants, and hotels. He also invested in mines. He was a civil rights pioneer, proponent of education, and a supporter of the Underground Railroad.[1] He lobbied for the right to vote and successfully argued that Colorado should not be admitted to the Union until all males were allowed to vote. He led the formation of school programs and buildings.
Barney Lancelot Ford | |
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Born | Barney Lancelot Ford January 22, 1822 Virginia, US |
Died | December 22, 1902 Denver, Colorado, US |
Resting place | Riverside Cemetery (Denver, Colorado) |
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Nationality | American |
Known for | Colorado businessman and civil-rights pioneer |
Spouse | Julia A. Lyon |
As a teenager, Ford traveled across the Mississippi River and other state lines to move animals, goods, and people. He moved fairly regularly as an adult, doing business in Chicago, Breckenridge, Denver, Cheyenne, San Francisco, and enterprises in Nicaragua.
He was inducted into the Colorado Black Hall of Fame and the Colorado Business Hall of Fame. He has been remembered for his contributions to the state from its territorial days. A stained-glass portrait resides in the House Chamber of the Colorado State Capitol.