Women’s History Month: Caroline LeCount
Caroline LeCount Makes History: Philly’s First Black Woman with Streets in Her Name
Saluting a True Pioneer
On yesterday’s show, in honor of Women’s History Month and Transit Driver Appreciation Day, we showed love to Caroline LeCount. She wasn’t just the first Black woman in Philly to pass the teaching exam before turning 20—she was a whole movement. By 1863, she was already a school principal. Then, she turned her power to the city’s public transportation system and made history once again. Despite her adversity, LeCount was a force, and her impact still rides through Philly’s streets today.
Philly Honors a Civil Rights Legend
Philadelphia just made history! Mayor Cherelle Parker signed a law making Caroline LeCount the first Black woman to have city streets named after her. This is a huge moment for Philly and for Black history.
Out with the Old, In with the Truth
City Council voted unanimously to remove Roger Taney’s name from several blocks. Taney, the Supreme Court justice behind the racist Dred Scott decision, had no place being honored in Philly. Now, those streets will carry the name of a true trailblazer.
Who Was Caroline LeCount?
This legend wasn’t just any educator. Furthermore, she was a fighter for Black rights — engaged to activist Octavius Catto before he was assassinated in 1870. In addition, she was a principal, a leader, and a champion for desegregating streetcars. She never backed down.
Standing Up for Her People
Queen LeCount didn’t just educate—she demanded justice. When Philly schools tried to keep Black teachers out, she spoke up. When people said Black students weren’t learning fast enough, she clapped back with facts. And when streetcars refused Black riders, she took the fight straight to the police. Thanks to her, Pennsylvania banned segregated streetcars in 1867.
A Legacy That Lives On
Basically, Council President Kenyatta Johnson and Council-members Curtis Jones Jr. and Jeffrey Young pushed for this change, and now it’s official. This isn’t just about renaming streets. It’s about making sure young people know who Caroline LeCount was and what she stood for.
More Changes Coming
Finally, along with honoring LeCount, Mayor Parker also signed a bill for permanent bike lanes on Spruce and Pine Streets. The new street signs and regulations will take effect next spring.
Caroline LeCount’s name will now be seen by thousands every day. Her fight for justice lives on, not just in history books but on the streets of Philly.
Check out the CBS tribute below
Also, check out some of my other show features right here:
Middays with Shaila: Sisterly Kiss
Middays with Shaila: Run that Back
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