Macoupin County's Mosby Was Early Black Sports Star

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Ben Mosby, an African American from Carlinville, Illinois, was one of the earliest sports stars in Macoupin County, winning three titles at the inaugural Macoupin County Track Meet in 1904. He later went on to a distinguished teaching career at the high school level, including serving as head of the history department at the famed Sumner High School in St. Louis.

Why it matters

Mosby's story highlights the struggles and achievements of African Americans in the post-Civil War era, a time of great social and racial upheaval in the United States. His success as an athlete and educator in a predominantly white rural community is a testament to his determination and character, and provides insight into the complex racial dynamics of the early 20th century.

The details

Mosby was likely one of the few black students at Carlinville High School, which was not segregated, though most of society was at the time. Despite the racial prejudices of the era, local newspapers frequently praised Mosby's manners, intelligence, and demeanor. At the inaugural Macoupin County Track Meet in 1904, Mosby won titles in the 100-yard dash, 200-yard dash, and hammer throw, leading his team to the county championship. Mosby later attended Fisk University and the University of Illinois, where he continued his athletic career and began his teaching career, eventually becoming head of the history department at Sumner High School in St. Louis.

• The inaugural Macoupin County Track Meet was held on May 14, 1904.
• Mosby graduated from high school in 1904, just 10 months after his father's death.
• Mosby enrolled at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee in 1904.
• Mosby attended the University of Illinois starting in 1907.
• Mosby became an instructor of civics at the University of Illinois in 1908.