Elzie Odom (1929-) was elected to the Arlington (Texas) City Council in 1990 and served as the first Black councilman in the city. In 1997, he was elected as the first Black Mayor of Arlington, and he served three terms from 1997-2003. His wife, Ruby, worked as a radiologic technologist, and is an important figure in the community through her work with charitable organizations. Elzie and Ruby grew up in the Freedom Colony of Shankleville, Texas, founded by Elzie's ancestors Jim and Winnie Shankle. The family permanently settled in Arlington in 1979. The collection consists of photos and ephemera covering Elzie Odom’s mayoral race and terms, family reunion materials, church papers, newspaper clippings, and materials relating to Elzie’s community service.
Finding aid available here. Materials provided by Special Collections and Archives at the University of Texas at Arlington.
Finding aid available here. Materials provided by Special Collections and Archives at the University of Texas at Arlington.
Printing is not supported at the primary Gallery Thumbnail page. Please first navigate to a specific Image before printing.
