Robert “Old Folks” Dawkins Memorial Unveiling Ceremony

Robert "Old Folks" Dawkins Memorial Unveiling Ceremony

On Saturday, November 9, at 2 p.m., celebrate the Legacy of Mr. Robert "Old Folks" Dawkins with a Memorial Unveiling Ceremony at Charles Houston Recreation Center (901 Wythe Street). A reception will begin at 1 p.m. and a dedication ceremony at 2 p.m. honoring Mr. Robert "Old Folks" Dawkins and memorializing him in the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame.

This Memorial Unveiling Ceremony is presented in partnership with The Alexandria African American Hall of Fame, The Office of Historic Alexandria, and the Department of Recreation, Parks, & Cultural Activities.

One of Dawkins' most notable achievements was preserving the legacy of the legendary Parker-Gray School. "He did so much to honor others and never sought recognition for himself," said his brother, the Hon. Nolan Dawkins. "That was one of the core principles of his life. He was commanding yet remarkably humble at the same time."

Founder of the African American Hall of Fame, Dawkins also established the Hoop Academy. This initiative demonstrated his belief in the power of sports to inspire and mentor the next generation. Through this foundation, he not only taught basketball skills but also instilled values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance that extended far beyond the court.

For more information about the Memorial Unveiling Ceremony, please contact Julian Haley at 571-217-9951 or email [email protected].

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact Nicole Quinn at [email protected] or call 703.746.4554, Virginia Relay 711.

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you, please email [email protected] or call 703-746-3960.

About Robert "Old Folks" Dawkins

Born on November 9, 1940, to Curtis and Mattie Dawkins, Robert "Old Folks" Dawkins grew up in Alexandria, attending segregated schools, including his beloved Parker-Gray High School. He earned the nickname "Old Folks" for being wise beyond his years.

As an adult, Dawkins was employed by the City of Alexandria as the Director of Centers for the department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. He later retired after many years working for the federal Government. Dawkins became a pillar of the community, preferring to work in the shadows while tirelessly recognizing the trailblazers who often went unheralded.

Dawkins made significant contributions to African American history in Alexandria, particularly through conceptualizing and founding the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame in June 2013, housed at the Charles Houston Recreation Center.

About the Office of Historic Alexandria:

The Office of Historic Alexandria preserves and shares the history of the City of Alexandria with eight museums, historic sites, archives, archaeology, tours, exhibits and public programs. Through powerful storytelling and confronting the City's past, Historic Alexandria enriches the present and inspires the future. We enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors and serves as a partner in the City's equity and inclusion initiatives. For more information, visit Alexandriava.gov/historic.