calvin clifton blalock
1900-1978
Life Story
Instructor • WPA Educator • Newton County Native
Early Life in Newton County
Calvin Clifton Blalock was born in May 1900 in Newton County, Mississippi, to Allen Blalock (1865–?) and Francis Blankenship Blalock (1871–1922). Raised in a rural farming household, Calvin’s early life reflected the rhythms of agricultural work that shaped so many families of the era. As a young boy, he labored on the family farm, learning the values of persistence, responsibility, and community rootedness.
Commitment to Education
Despite the hard demands of farm life, Calvin nurtured a deep interest in learning. At a time when educational opportunities for African Americans in rural Mississippi were limited, his determination set him apart. Through immense personal effort, Calvin achieved what few in his circumstances could: he earned a four-year college degree.
This milestone not only redefined his own life but became the foundation for a career dedicated to service and education.
Career with the Works Progress Administration (WPA)
Calvin’s education opened the door to a government position in Jackson, Mississippi, where he served as an instructor for the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
Established in 1935 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, the WPA sought to respond to the devastation of the Great Depression by creating jobs, strengthening communities, and providing vocational training.
As an instructor, Calvin played a crucial role in teaching practical skills to individuals seeking work. His efforts helped many Mississippians gain stability and rebuild their lives.
His service reflected not only professional commitment but also a deep understanding of the importance of opportunity—something he had once labored so hard to obtain himself.
Family Life
Calvin married Willie Blalock (1910–?). Their union produced three children:
- William H. Blalock (1928–?)
- Lawrence H. Blalock (1929–?)
- Eula Marie Blalock (1930–?)
Together, the family upheld the values of hard work, education, and perseverance that Calvin embodied.
Passing and Burial
On July 10, 1978, Calvin Clifton Blalock passed away. He was interred in the Evans Cemetery located in the Bethel community of Newton County, Mississippi—a place tied deeply to the heritage and history of the families he represented.
SIDEBAR: Key Facts About Calvin C. Blalock
Birth & Parents
- Born: May 1900, Newton County, MS
- Father: Allen Blalock (1865–?)
- Mother: Francis Blankenship Blalock (1871–1922)
Education & Career
- Earned a four-year college degree
- Served as a WPA instructor in Jackson, Mississippi
- Worked to uplift individuals during the Great Depression through job training and skill development
Marriage & Children
- Wife: Willie Blalock (1910–?)
- Children: William H., Lawrence H., Eula Marie
Death & Burial
Burial: Evans Cemetery, Bethel community, Newton County, MS.
Died: July 10, 1978
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1900 Federal Census
- 1910 Federal Census
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- California, U.S., Death Index, 1940-1997
- U.S. WWII Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- U.S., City Directories, 1822-1995
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- Jackson Advocate, Eula Marie Blalock weds James Elbert Morgan, Sat, Dec 17, 1955 ·Page 3
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