Featured Figure in Black History: Paul Laurence Dunbar

The Southwestern Eagle celebrates Black History month by remembering one of Dayton’s best known figures

February is black history month; how much do you know about Paul Laurence Dunbar? You may have more in common than you think. Born in Dayton and raised by a single parent, Dunbar is remembered as one of the best loved poets of African-American History.

Dunbar was born to former slaves on June 27, 1872 in Dayton, Ohio. His father was a veteran of the Civil War. Dunbar’s parents separated when he was very young, and his mother, Matilda, worked to support her children on her own. One of the families that Dunbar’s mother worked for was that of Orville and Wilber Wright.


Although they were very poor, Dunbar’s mother consistently taught her children to value poetry and storytelling. She encouraged Dunbar in his intellectual pursuits. Though he was the only African-American student in his class at Dayton Central High School, he was actively involved in many student organizations including the school newspaper.


Dunbar’s career as a literary figure can be dated to 1892 when he published his first collection of poems, Oak and Ivy, and also gave his first public reading. Although his work was reasonably popular, Dunbar still had to work as an elevator operator to support himself. He frequently sold volumes of his poetry to people that he met on the elevator.


While living in Toledo in 1897, Dunbar published his second book of poetry and became more widely known and respected. He married shortly after and began working for the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. During this time his health declined.


In 1902, Dunbar separated from his wife and returned to Dayton. Though he continued to work, his health steadily declined. He died of tuberculosis here in Dayton in 1906. His body of work included 12 books of poetry, and other books that included plays, novels and short stories.

Dunbar’s home in Dayton can still be visited today! Call 937-313-2010 for more information.
Dayton Public Library is home to a collection of Paul Laurence Dunbar publications, including many first editions.
Email history@daytonmetrolibrary.org for information.