The History of Elbert-Palmer Academy

Samuel G. Elbert Elementary opened 1929 combined with John Palmer School in 1976.

Samuel G. Elbert was born in Chesterville, Maryland in 1865.  His elementary education was attained in the village school.  Dr. Elbert attended Howard University in Washington, D.C.  He graduated from Howard University first with an academic degree and then later from the medical school.  In 1890, Dr. Elbert came to practice in Wilmington.  While practicing medicine here, Dr. Elbert did post-graduate work in medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.  When the State College for colored students was organized, Dr. Elbert was appointed by the Governor as a a member of the Board of Trustees.  He served in this capacity on a continuous term.  Dr. Elbert was a zealous member of the Board of Trustees.  It was a largely through his efforts that the appropriations of the school were increased.  Dr. Elbert was the unanimous choice to represent the black people on the commission of laymen and teachers who investigated the educational conditions in Wilmington.  Dr. Elbert was known to thousands through his long period of medical practice in Wilmington.  Dr. Elbert passed away in 1939.  

John Palmer Elementary opened 1928 combined with Samuel G. Elbert School in 1976 new building opened in 1990.

John Palmer, Jr. was born in the city on August 9, 1860.  He attended schools within Wilmington and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a medical degree.  He was a member of the American Medical Association.  He served thirty-eight years o the Wilmington Board of Education as a Board member and President of the Board.  He served as President of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Society, and was a fellow member of the American College of Physicians and Surgeons.   Dr. Palmer was a member of the DuPont Lodge Free and Accepted Masons; Washington and Lafayette Chapter Royal Arch Masons, The Delaware Consistory Scottish Rites Mason of the 32nd Degree, Lulu Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, the Bedford Club, and the Philadelphia University Club.  Dr. John Palmer passed away on June 13, 1930.