Walter Hawkins was born in Georgetown, Maryland, in 1809 to slave parents. His mother died when he was quite young and although he could not remember much about her, he and his siblings soon came to realize the glorious emancipation that came to her at her death. Her lot to be numbered with the dead was better than the life she endured being whipped, degraded and forced to witness the selling of her children into slavery. Walter was too young to remember his brothers and sisters and therefore only had recollections of two brothers and two sisters. When his slave master died, the mistress and her son were forced to offer Walter for sale. They allowed him time to say good bye to his loved ones and to collect his things. He vowed that when darkness fell on his allotted time he would escape.

Hawkins' Chatham Connection

During his years in slavery Hawkins had worked as a farm labourer, waiter, lamp lighter, grocer and minister of the gospel. He had never owned a home of his own. His son, whom he depended upon for some time, decided that it was time for such a reward. He secured the land and recruited the friends and followers in the Chatham area to assist financially and physically. With heartfelt assistance the home was completed before the winter of 1866.

Walter Hawkins was Reverend at the B.M.E. Church that was located on the corner of Wellington and Princess Street in Chatham, Ontario. The building has since been removed and remains a vacant lot.

Rev. Walter Hawkins died on July 16, 1894, leaving behind his wife, Mariah Francis, sons, Jackson Hamilton, Walter Jr., one daughter Mary Elizabeth, a sister, Helen Taylor, and several grandchildren. His daughter, Ellen Hall, predeceased him, leaving several children who were mentioned in his last will and testament.

More information about Walter Hawkins can be found at the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society and in the book by Gwen Robinson, "Seek the Truth". Bishop Walter Hawkins is not related in any way to the Walter Hawkins for which the Chatham Community Swimming Pool was named.

Source:
Seek the Truth, A Story of Chatham's Black Community by Gwen Robinson