James A Fields was the first African-American to practice law in Newport News, Va. He too was a graduate of Hampton Institute what is known today as Hampton University. Today one of his homes serves as a Museum.
The James A. Fields House is historically significant for its long association with the development of the social and civic life of the African-American community in Newport News. The house was used by Mr. Fields as his law office and primary residence from 1897 to 1903. In 1908, four doctors pooled their savings and asked the Fields family for use of the top floor to start a hospital. Other than the city jail's infirmary, this institution represented the only outlet for hospitalization for blacks, and provided two years of generous service to the black community. The Fields House was just one of fifteen properties owned by Mr. Fields in Newport News.
Posted By: Joah King
Thursday, March 2nd 2006 at 12:57AM
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