Everett Frederic Morrow
April 20, 1909 – July 19, 1994
Everett Frederic Morrow, a trailblazing figure in American history, held the distinction of being the first African American to occupy an executive position within the White House. His tenure as Administrative Officer for Special Projects under President Dwight Eisenhower, spanning from 1955 to 1961, was marked by significant contributions. Here’s an overview of his life and career:
Early Life
Everett Frederic Morrow was born in Hackensack, New Jersey, on April 20, 1909. His father, John Eugene Morrow, initially a library custodian, later became an ordained Methodist minister in 1912. His mother, Mary Ann Hayes, had worked as a farm laborer and maid in the past. Remarkably, his grandparents had experienced enslavement.
During his formative years, Morrow attended Hackensack High School, where he was actively involved in the school’s debate team for three years, culminating in his role as its president during his senior year. Additionally, he became a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.
Notably, his brother, John H. Morrow, achieved distinction as an Ambassador to Guinea and served as the American representative to UNESCO.
Education
Everett Morrow embarked on his educational journey by attending Bowdoin College from 1926 to 1930. During his time at Bowdoin, he was one of only two African American students on campus. Unfortunately, due to family responsibilities, Morrow had to leave before completing his degree. Nevertheless, he received an honorary LL.D. degree from Bowdoin College in 1970.
Early Career
In 1935, Morrow assumed the role of business manager for Opportunity Magazine, a publication affiliated with the National Urban League. Two years later, he transitioned to become a field secretary for the NAACP. His dedication to public service did not waver, as he enlisted in the United States Army during World War II. Remarkably, he swiftly rose through the ranks, progressing from a private to a sergeant within a month of service. His educational background and commitment led to his graduation from Officer Candidate School. In 1946, he left the army as a Major of Artillery. Subsequently, Morrow ventured into the realm of writing, contributing to CBS.
Political Activity and White House Service
Everett Morrow’s political involvement escalated when he joined President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s campaign staff in 1952. Following this, he assumed an advisory role at the U.S. Commerce Department. His most groundbreaking achievement was becoming the Administrative Officer for Special Projects at the White House, marking a historic milestone as the first African American to hold an executive position within the White House. During his tenure, he navigated complex racial tensions related to integration, set against the backdrop of pivotal events such as the Brown v. Board of Education ruling, the Montgomery bus boycott, and the Little Rock crisis. Although he faced numerous challenges, Morrow’s groundbreaking position paved the way for future generations.
He continued his political engagement by campaigning for Richard Nixon in the 1960 presidential election, even delivering a prime-time speech at the Republican National Convention and participating in the Vice-Presidential selection caucus.
Post-White House Life
In 1964, Everett Morrow assumed the role of the first African American vice-president at Bank of America, a historic achievement. He remained with the company until his retirement in 1975. He passed away in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking achievements and unwavering dedication to civil rights and equal opportunities.
Books and Papers
Everett Morrow shared his experiences and insights through various books. In his 1960 book, “Black Man in the White House,” he shed light on the complexities of working in the White House, revealing the competitive nature and challenges faced by staff members. He also recounted instances of personal and professional racism he encountered.
In 1973, Morrow authored “Way Down South Up North,” focusing on racism in the northern United States, particularly in his hometown of Hackensack, New Jersey. Following his retirement from Bank of America in 1980, he published his final autobiography, “Forty Years a Guinea Pig: A Black Man’s View from the Top.”
Today, his papers can be found at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and the Chicago Public Library’s Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection of Afro-American History and Literature. Everett Frederic Morrow’s life and career exemplify the resilience and determination that fueled the civil rights movement and paved the way for progress in America.
