Enduring Families Project

Saturday is approaching fast get your dress grab a tux and celebrate this annual tradition!
Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite: La Crosse Annual August Ball Celebration 2025!

Great showing at the Juneteenth Celebration at Riverside Park on Saturday!

Great times at the Black Excellence Awards Dinner!

Did you know that George Edwin Taylor made history as the first African American to run for President of the United States? Born in 1857 in Arkansas, Taylor’s journey as a young boy brought him to La Crosse, Wisconsin. He was fostered by Nathan and Sarah Smith of rural West Salem.

Taylor became a prominent voice in African American politics. He wrote for local papers, published the "Wisconsin Labor Advocate," and launched the national weekly magazine "Negro Solicitor."

In 1904, Taylor was selected to lead the ticket of the National Negro Liberty Party for the office of President of the United States. He was the first African American to run for president.


Image: George Edwin Taylor, 1904 Presidential Campaign Poster.
Source: Eartha White Collection, Thomas G. Carpenter Library, University of North Florida.

Enduring Families Project Children’s Stories recently published a book on the life of George Edwin Taylor and his journey to being the first Black Presidential Candidate. For more information, visit: https://efpcs.org/story-1-a-long-way-to-find-home/