Julius Irwin Washington, Sr.

Among what are known as the learned professions, the law has attracted, perhaps fewer colored men than any other. The position of the negro lawyer is widely different from that of the preacher or the teacher. They have an assured following, as there is no competition between the white churches and schools and the negro churches and schools. The negro lawyer, however, must not only build up a clientage in sharp competition with the white lawyer but must also overcome the custom of the colored man to go to a white lawyer when in need of legal advice or services. So when one finds a colored lawyer who has succeeded in building up a good practice, especially in the smaller places, one may be sure of exceptional ability.

As a lawyer, Julius Irwin Washington, of Beaufort, has won a measure of success which is at once a credit to him and to his race. What is more, he has not found it necessary to leave his home town in order to succeed but among the people who know his character and ability best has worked through the years.

He was born in Beaufort, December 12, 1860. His parents were Richard and Catherine Washington. Coming of school age, just after the war, young Washington attended the public schools and when ready for college entered South Carolina College, which was open to both races. Later he read law under General W.J. Whipper, and was admitted to the bar in December, 1887. It was necessary for Mr. Washington to make his own way in school. He taught school for a few terms.

He is Secretary of the Trustee Board of the Beaufort School. He believes that progress of his people depends on better school facilities, better wages and the ballot. He has property interests in Beaufort, Atlanta and in Aiken county.

In October, 1880, Mr. Washington was married to Miss Carrie Kinlaugh, of Beaufort. She bore him two children: Adell S. (Mrs. Fleming) and Thomas W. Washington. His wife passed away in 1885.

On June 4, 1890, Mr. Washington was married to Miss Eliza Middleton. Their children are Serg. J. I., Jr., Sadie (Mrs. Rice), Etta M. and Charles E. Washington.

Source: History of the American Negro and his Institutions (South Carolina)