work. Prof. Davis is of this number. His life is one that must meet the general recommendation of men. He was born in Caroline county, Va., March 25, 1862. Going to Richmond, Va., he was educated in her public schools, receiving medals from his instructors on two occasions, for proficiency in his studies. He served as an apprentice in a shoe shop, and became a first-class workman there. He was elected to teach in the city schools of Richmond in 1880, where he has been since, having attained a good record as an instructor of youth. He was selected as professor of mathematics and civil government in the summer institutes of Lynchburg, Staunton, and Lexington, Va., by the state superintendent of public instruction. His ability manifested in these institutes, combined with his genial and lovable qualities, did much to hold intact the many teachers who attended them.
Mr. Davis has held many honorary positions. He was president of the Y. M. C. A., of Richmond, Va., and is now associate to the general secretary. For years he was president of the Richmond normal school alumni, and the Garrison and Langston lyceum. He is at present chairman of the executive board of the Virginia teachers' reading circle; also of the executive board of the Virginia Baptist Sunday-school Convention, and is otherwise very prominent in the church and Sunday-school circles of his city. He is also conspicuous in masonic circles, serving at one time as Most Worshipful Master of Social Lodge, No. 6, A. F. & A. Masons. He was Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Alabama, with rank of Past Grand Senior Warden, and was also Special Deputy of Grand Lodge of Virginia. He is likewise prominent among the Odd Fellows, as well as in other societies. He was a director of the Building and Loan Association of Richmond City, and a member of the executive committee of the late national emancipation celebration.
Prof. Davis is a great musician, playing on four different
