Diamond Hill in Lynchburg, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Dr. Robert Walter Johnson House and Tennis Court
Photographed By Bernard Fisher, May 26, 2014
1. Dr. Robert Walter Johnson House and Tennis Court Marker
House and Tennis Court
is registered as a
Virginia Historic Landmark
by the
Virginia Historic Resources Board
and placed on the
National Register of Historic Places
by the
U.S. Department of the Interior
Dr. Robert Walter Johnson (1899-1971) moved to Lynchburg in 1933 and established his medical practice. He was active in local politics and the Civil Rights movement, achieving groundbreaking progress within the community. Dr. Johnson built a tennis court adjacent to his home to provide opportunity to African-Americans to participate in this sport. His encouragement and support of participation resulted in two of his proteges, Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe, to be the first black female and male to win the Wimbledon Championship. His continued guidance to young African-Americans encouraged many to go on to successful careers in tennis and other occupations.
Erected 2002.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Civil Rights • Science & Medicine • Sports. A significant historical year for this entry is 1933.
Location. 37° 24.177′ N, 79° 9.043′ W. Marker is in Lynchburg, Virginia. It
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Professor Frank Trigg (here, next to this marker); Site of Dr. Johnson's Tennis Court (a few steps from this marker); Dr. Robert Walter Johnson (within shouting distance of this marker); Anne Spencer Home and Edankraal (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Anne Spencer House (about 500 feet away); In Tribute to Anne Bethel Spencer (about 500 feet away); Anne Spencer (about 500 feet away); a different marker also named Anne Spencer House (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lynchburg.
Also see . . . Dr. Walter Johnson House and Tennis Court. National Register of Historic Places (Submitted on November 9, 2021.)
Photographed By Bernard Fisher, May 26, 2014
2. Dr. Robert Walter Johnson House and Tennis Court Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 27, 2014, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. This page has been viewed 981 times since then and 42 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 27, 2014, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia.
