Timeline: 1904

Walter T. Bailey was the first African American to graduate with a degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Illinois. He was also the first African American to become a certified architect in Illinois. He was listed as “assisting with the design on the building of Colonel Wolfe School built in 1905.

Hiram Hannibal Wheeler and Roy Mercer Young integrated the University of Illinois football varsity roster.

“Emancipation Day celebration was held in Champaign on September 22. A parade through the streets of Champaign was led by Col. Joe Lee and the K of P Band beginning at 11:00 a.m. Residents from Danville, Mattoon, Tuscola, and other nearby towns attended. The parade was followed by a barbecue at the Fairgrounds.” Urbana Courier, September 22, 1904, pg. 1