Thomas M. Campbell’s name deserves to be written in large letters in our nation’ Extension history. He was America’ first black Cooperative Extension agent, named to that position in Macon Co., Alabama, in November, 1906. After 12 years in his county post, he was appointed field agent in Extension work for the USDA and was housed at Tuskegee University. He served as a leader in “Negro Extension” in seven states, retiring in 1953.
A well-known writer and author, Campbell helped lay the groundwork for a modern Extension service which serves all Americans. His book, “The Movable School Goes to the Negro Farmer,” reflected the scope of his life and the depth of his ideas.
Through study, hard work and perseverance, Thomas Campbell earned his degree at Tuskegee Institute. On November 12, 1906, he was appointed “Negro County Agent” for Macon County, Alabama, thus becoming America’ first black Cooperative Extension Agent. After 12 years in Macon County, he was appointed Field Agent in Extension Work, USDA, located at Tuskegee Institute. He served as a leader in “Negro Extension” work in this capacity in seven states until he retired in 1953, after 47 years of extension work.
