Newell Houston Ensley

Biography

Newell Houston Ensley overcame the shadow of slavery to become a teacher, Baptist minister, and champion for African American education in the postwar decades. As a voice for equal opportunity he spoke from pulpits and classrooms, encouraging youth to pursue knowledge and justice.

His energy and faith drew admiration from colleagues and congregants, and those who knew him still recall his sermons and lectures; he now rests at Riverside Cemetery among those who kept hope alive.