BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Herbert L. Jackson

The following was submitted by Malden resident Ted Louis-Jacques, who will honor a number of notable Maldonians for Black History Month this February. 

Herbert L. Jackson was the first member of his race ever elected to the Malden City Council.

He was noted for his untiring efforts on behalf of a number of youth activities, charitable causes, and civic crusades.

Councillor Jackson had the distinction for his tenure of 24 years as a Common Councillor for Ward 7 from 1946-1947, and in Ward 5 from 1948-1951 and as a City Councillor-at-Large from 1958-1975. He also served as Deputy Mayor. At that time, as the President of the Council, he was would serve as acting mayor in the event of the mayor's absence. 

Furthermore, Jackson was the first black elected as a State House Representative in the 20^th century (1950-1954). The City of Malden achieved national prominence in the election of Herbert L. Jackson as a Massachusetts District Governor of Lions Club - again, he was the first black elected to such post in the United States.

Through his strength, vision, commitment, to improve quality of life for his fellowman in the city of his birth, Herbert L. Jackson has earned the respect and admiration of the people of Malden both young and old alike.

In honor of our community’s cherished son, City Hall’s Council Chamber was named and rededicated as the Herbert L. Jackson Council Chambers on December 16, 1975.