John Adams Hyman

Biography

Born into slavery, John Adams Hyman rose to become the first African American to represent North Carolina in the United States Congress, serving during the challenging years of Reconstruction. He used his voice to advocate for the rights of his constituents and to promote education, landownership, and opportunity for newly freed citizens.

After leaving Congress, he continued to serve the public in various capacities, remaining a visible symbol of perseverance; he now rests at National Harmony Memorial Park, where his legacy is honored by those who remember his leadership.