Carver Nursery School: Segregation and Legacy in Alexandria

In the midst of World War II, the Carver Nursery School stood as a symbol of resilience and community support in Alexandria. This humble wood-frame building played a crucial role during the war by providing a safe and affordable day care option for the children of African American war workers. Established in 1944, Carver operated as a segregated nursery school, reflecting the racial norms of the time. Following the war, federal support for day care ceased, leading Alexandria’s working mothers to rally for the continuation of nurseries. The city agreed to operate two white nurseries alongside Carver, albeit with doubled monthly fees. Social clubs in the black community played a pivotal role in funding Carver students, allowing the nursery to persist until its closure in 1950. However, the story of Carver did not end there.

Controversy and Change: The 1946 Decision

In 1946, the city of Alexandria made a controversial decision to end janitorial services at the nursery schools, including Carver, in an effort to cut costs. This decision impacted two professional teachers, Lucille G. Smith and Velma D. Leigh, who were required to take on janitorial duties, including cleaning and furnace maintenance. The controversial aspect arose when it was revealed that white teachers were exempt from this mandate. Faced with this inequality, Smith and Leigh resigned, prompting a swift replacement by a single teacher willing to take on the additional responsibilities.

A New Chapter: William Thomas Post 129

Following its closure in 1950, the Carver School found a new purpose as the home of American Legion Post 129. This transition marked a continued era of segregation in veterans’ organizations, even as the U.S. military underwent desegregation during the Korean War. Named after Private William Thomas, an African American soldier killed in World War I, Post 129 served as a hub for social activities, educational programs, and sports during the 1950s and 1960s. The Carver Nursery School’s journey from a segregated wartime institution to a post-war American Legion post reflects the complex historical tapestry of Alexandria and the broader societal shifts of the mid-20th century.