A bronze plaque, weathered by the sun, stands before you on a small concrete pedestal. John Sessums, Jr., it proclaims, a name etched in time, a testament to a fascinating life. This plaque, much like John Sessums, Jr., himself bridged a significant gap in history, one that spanned decades and touched both Black and White communities in Houston. John Sessums, Jr., was an extraordinary individual who left an indelible mark on the city.
Born into slavery, John Sessums, Jr. was the son of John Sessums, Sr., a man who may have been enslaved by a prominent Houston merchant, Alexander Sessums. Despite the difficult circumstances of his birth, John Sessums, Jr., distinguished himself as a gifted musician, specifically as a drummer. He started his journey as a member of the Houston Light Guard, an all-White militia that gained national recognition for its precision drill performances around the state. It was during this time he became known as their first and only Black member for over 50 years.
John Sessums, Jr., was more than “just” a drummer. He was a talented drill instructor, leading both Black and White militia groups to victories in competitions. He went as far as forming his own drill companies, the Packard Zouaves, and Lawlor Zouaves, for young African American boys where he instilled discipline and provided opportunities for them to travel. The plaque speaks not just of an accomplished musician but of a leader who helped shape the city’s cultural landscape. John Sessums, Jr., was a pillar of community, a beacon of resilience, and a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
His skills and dedication earned him respect and admiration from both Black and White communities. He was even honored as the “Perpetual Drummer” by the Houston Light Guard Veterans Association, a prestigious title that reflected the deep respect he commanded. His impact was so profound that even after his death, the Veterans Association provided for his living expenses, a touching display of their dedication and his influence. To understand the depth of his influence, you have to remember that this was a time when racism and prejudice ran rampant, when such dedication to a Black man was unheard of. This marker is a reminder of a life well-lived, a life that embodied talent, tenacity, and a deep love for his city.