June 8th: Today’s Feature

June

Allan Glaisyer Minns (1858 – 16 September 1930) made history as a medical doctor who broke barriers by becoming the first black man to hold the position of mayor in Britain, showcasing his exceptional skills as a medical doctor and his determination to break down racial barriers.

Early Life

Hailing from the picturesque island of Inagua in the Bahamas, Minns was part of a large family with eight siblings, being the youngest son of John Minns (1811–1863) and Ophelia (née Bunch) Minns (1817–1902).

The Minns family history traces back to his grandfather, John Minns, who made the bold decision to leave England and settle in the Bahamas around 1801. It was there that he met and married Rosette, who had previously been enslaved in Africa.

The rich heritage of the Minns family, with roots in both England and Africa, played a significant role in shaping Minns' upbringing and worldview. This diverse background undoubtedly influenced his perspective on life and his contributions to society.

Education & Medical Career

Minns received his education at Nassau Grammar School and Guy's Hospital in London, two prestigious institutions known for their commitment to academic excellence. His dedication and hard work paid off as he successfully registered with the British Medical Association on 14 February 1884. His qualifications, MRCS (1881) and LRCP (1884), showcased his expertise and knowledge in the medical field.

After completing his education, Minns established his practice in Thetford in 1885, where he served the community for nearly four decades. His decision to move to Thetford was influenced by his elder brother, Pembroke Minns, who was already a respected medical practitioner in the area. This familial connection not only provided Minns with a support system but also allowed him to seamlessly integrate into the local medical community.

Political Career

In addition to his medical career, Minns also ventured into politics and made significant contributions to the town of Thetford. In 1903, he was elected to the town council, showcasing his commitment to public service. The following year, Minns achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first known black mayor in England. His two one-year terms as mayor demonstrated his leadership skills and ability to bring about positive change in the community. While there were later claims of other black mayors, it was Minns' election in 1904 that was officially recognised by the American Negro Year Book 1914, solidifying his place in history as a trailblazer.

Personal Life

Minns had the privilege of experiencing love and companionship twice in his lifetime. His first marriage took place in 1888 when he tied the knot with Emily Pearson, a remarkable woman born in 1859. Unfortunately, their time together was cut short when Emily passed away in 1892. Despite this tragic loss, Minns found love once again and remarried in 1896 to Gertrude Ann Morton. This second union brought him great joy and happiness.

Throughout his marriages, Minns was blessed with a beautiful family. With his first wife, Emily, he had the pleasure of raising two daughters and one son. Their children were a testament to their love and commitment to each other. After Emily's passing, Minns and Gertrude welcomed two more daughters into their lives, completing their loving family. The bond between Minns and his children was undoubtedly strong, and they shared many cherished moments together.

Tragically, Minns faced the heart-wrenching loss of his son, Allan Noel Minns, in 1921. Allan, like his father, pursued a career in medicine and made a significant impact during the First World War as one of the few black officers serving in the British Army. Allan's dedication and bravery were commendable, and his untimely death left a void in the Minns family. Despite this profound loss, Minns continued to leave a lasting legacy through his contributions to both medicine and local government. His passing in Dorking on 16 September 1930 marked the end of an era, but his trailblazing spirit and accomplishments will forever be remembered.