The Legacy of Civil Rights Activists Esau and Janie B. Jenkins
20th century
•
5m 48s
In 1967, Esau and Janie B. Jenkins purchased the 1966 Volkswagen Deluxe Station Wagon currently on display in Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, but their civil rights activism efforts began decades earlier.
Learn more about the Jenkins’ commitment to bettering the lives of residents in Johns Island, South Carolina in the wake of racial discrimination and violence, including the impact of their transport initiatives.
Up Next in 20th century
-
1925 Ford Model TT Truck
Ford Motor Company introduced its Model TT - essentially a Model T with a heftier frame and drivetrain - in 1917. For built only three trucks the first year, but more than 40,000 TTs left the factor the following year. Join Curator of Transportation Matt Anderson from The Henry Ford to explore th...
-
Esau Jenkins' 1966 Volkswagen Microbu...
Esau and Janie Jenkins dedicated themselves to improving the lives of Black residents on Johns Island, South Carolina. Esau Jenkins purchased this Volkswagen van around 1967, and the couple used it in much of their work. The van's rugged character is a tribute to the selfless service of Esau and ...