Celebrating Black History with Ernest Attwell

Ernest T. Attwell

Ernest T. Attwell began his career with the National Recreation Association in 1919, few cities were providing recreation programs for African Americans. As a result of his leadership, more than 230 communities established playgrounds and community centers for African-American citizens. During his 30 years of service with the National Recreation Association, he accomplished more than any other individual in expanding recreation opportunities for minority groups. His work constituted a major contribution to the growth of the recreation movement in America. Ernest was “a pioneer in the field of providing a more abundant life, an inspiration to workers in the recreation profession, and a man who left an indelible imprint upon hundreds of communities across the country,”

Citations provided by Colors of Recreation (1996) and the Play and Playground Encylopedia.

Leave a Reply