By Shiela Hayes, For The Bulletin
As we celebrate Black History Month and the great contributions of African Americans to the fabric of this great society, let us not forget it happened underneath the weight of racism that has existed throughout our history and continues today.
The Ellis Walter Ruley story, African American artist, is one of strength, endurance and tragedy. During his lifetime, he faced extreme adversity and racism as a result of his interracial marriage and his ability to achieve the “American dream” with the purchase of a new car and home.
In his early life, Ruley worked as a rock mason until an auto accident occurred and the settlement award of $25,000 was to be split between Ruley and the other passenger. The initial award of $12,000 to Ruley was reduced to $8,000 after the judge declared the initial amount excessive. Ruley then purchased a 1932 green Chevrolet convertible coupe called the “Green Hornet.” He married a white woman named Wilhelmina