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Notable People

George Alexander Hackett

Biography

George Alexander Hackett (1806–1870) was an entrepreneur, political activist, and community leader who was born enslaved and purchased his freedom before turning twenty-one. He operated a livery stable and coal yard and worked as a collector, claim agent, and steward aboard the USS Constitution. Hackett used his resources to support Baltimore's African-American community. His home served as a station on the Underground Railroad.

He opposed the Jacobs Bill, which threatened to deport free African Americans from Maryland and enslave their children. Active in Republican politics, Hackett advocated for African-American men's voting rights, publicly supported high schools for Black students, and African-American teachers in Black schools. He belonged to the Masons, Odd Fellows, and Bethel A.M.E. Church. Hackett co-founded the Chesapeake Marine Railway & Drydock Company and served on the Executive Committee of Laurel Cemetery. Mississippi Senator Hiram Revels and A.M.E. Bishop Daniel Payne spoke at his funeral.

Quick Facts

Year of Birth

1806

Place of Birth

Not provided

Year of Death

1870

Place of Burial

Not provided

Occupation

Entrepreneur, Political Activist, Community Leader

Era

19th Century

Key Contributions

Entrepreneurship

Co-founded and served as president of the Chesapeake Marine Railway & Drydock Company, which employed 300 Black and white workers within six months.

Labor Leadership

Worked as a caulker, participated in the Colored Caulkers' Trade Union, and owned its union hall.

Civil Rights

Participated in national civil rights and Republican conventions, advocated for Black teachers, and served on a federal grand jury in Baltimore.

About this Series

Our notable people series highlights individuals connected to Laurel Cemetery whose lives impacted our community and our history in significant ways.

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