2023 24 Black Pages FINAL 2 - Flipbook - Page 122
business. “Working that business with our father laid the foundation for who we are today,” said the
educator, historian, and researcher in a previous conversation. “We took pride in having a business
that was family owned and operated by capable Black people.”
Still standing as a testament to its founder and his vision and resilience at 536 New Street, is
Hutchings Funeral Home, Incorporated. The business’ website says it began in 1895 as a partnership
between C. H. Hubbard, C.H. Hutching’s Sr., and several other men.
Hutchings, Sr. Left the partnership in 1910 and was joined in the
funeral business by his two sons, Charles H. Hutchings, Jr and Willie Pope
Hutchings. The business was named C.H. Hutchings and Sons providing
the framework for a place that people of color could rely on to lay their
loved ones to rest under the caring, capable auspices of those that looked
like them.
Even lesser known is the business legacy of the Lester family.
Nevertheless, the successes following the humble beginnings of Robert
Lester and his sons Ernest and Felton are manifesting for a third
Robert Lester
generation as Conrad Lester Simmons, Earnest Lester, and Freeman Lester.
Felton Lester
Conrad Lester
Earnest Lester Jr.
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Freeman Lester
