Hickman in Fulton County, Kentucky — The American South (East South Central)
Rufus B. Atwood
March 15, 1897 - March 18, 1983
Noted as one of Kentucky's most famous African American citizens, Hickman's Atwood served as the president of Kentucky State College from 1929 to 1962.
During his tenure at the school, Atwood led the battle for desegregated education and improved educational opportunities for black students across the state.
In 1962 he became the first African American to receive the University of Kentucky's highest honor, the Sullivan Medallion.
He was also awarded the Bronze Star for bravery in 1918 for service during W.W. I.
Erected by Hickman Recreation and Tourism Commission.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Civil Rights • Education • War, World I. A significant historical year for this entry is 1929.
Location. 36° 34.277′ N, 89° 11.111′ W. Marker is in Hickman, Kentucky, in Fulton County. Marker is on Moscow Street (State Highway 94), on the right when traveling west. Located in front of the Hickman Library. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Hickman KY 42050, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 12 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Elvis J. Stahr, Jr. (here, next to this marker); Hickman Bluff Stabilization Project (within shouting distance of this marker); Courthouse Steps (approx. half a mile away); Fulton County (approx. half a mile away); Where Dixie Begins (approx. half a mile away); Casey Jones (approx. 8.6 miles away); New Madrid Earthquake (approx. 9.3 miles away); Titan I (approx. 11.2 miles away in Tennessee). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Hickman.
Also see . . . Rufus B. Atwood (1897-1963). Black Past website entry (Submitted on August 17, 2022, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York.)
Credits. This page was last revised on August 17, 2022. It was originally submitted on April 29, 2009, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia. This page has been viewed 1,445 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on April 29, 2009, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia. 2. submitted on August 17, 2022, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York. 3. submitted on April 29, 2009, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia.