A student and graduate of Hampton Institute, Lizzie Jenkins taught at the college until she was appointed the first African American Home Demonstration Agent in 1913. Her primary job was to organize and conduct canning clubs among African American girls in heavily settled counties of southeastern VA. Under her supervision, individuals known as “Jeannes’ Teachers” began assisting families in the summer. Her influence assisted both rural youth and mothers. She noted in her 1915 annual report that “women hesitated about joining the clubs until they saw what was being accomplished by the girls and women.”
Jenkins reported in 1916 that there were 2,416 girls enrolled as members of garden, canning, sewing and cooking clubs, plus 246 in poultry clubs – the forerunners of 4-H clubs. During WWI, VA African American families contributed greatly to the war effort. In 1918, as a result of the growing canning movement, they preserved 500,000 qt. of vegetables and fruits. Jenkins’ work laid the foundation for future extension work with African American youth. Jenkins exemplified superior citizenship, leadership and character, and her successful work expanded to other communities and counties throughout VA.
