Lewis Adams

Who was Lewis Adams?

Lewis Adams was an African-American slave in Macon County, Alabama, who is best remembered for his work in helping found the normal school which grew to become Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama.

Little is known of his early life. It is known, however, that despite having no formal education, Adams could read, write and speak several languages. He was an experienced tinsmith, harness-maker and shoemaker. He was married to "Sallie" Sarah Adams with whom he had sixteen children. He was an acknowledged leader of the county's African-American community.

Adams was especially concerned that, without an education, the recently freed former slaves would not be able to fully support themselves. There were no institutions at that time to teach them essential skills.

In 1880, Adams was approached on behalf of two white candidates seeking election to the Alabama Senate. He was asked what it would take to get the votes of the community's black citizens.