Amidon-Bowen was created when two schools in SW DC merged: Amidon Elementary and Anthony Bowen Elementary. In 1882, Amidon Elementary School was built in SW DC to serve white students. It remained open until 1957. Anthony Bowen Elementary School served Black students until segregation was ended in DC by the Supreme Court in Bolling v. Sharpe (1954). The Anthony Bowen Elementary school continued into the 2000s as an integrated school. The former Anthony Bowen elementary school building is now home to the metropolitan police department First District Station.
Anthony Bowen
Anthony Bowen was a civic leader among the African-American community in DC. He was also the first African-American employee at the US Patent Office. Born enslaved on October 8, 1809 in Prince George’s County, MD, he was one of four children of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Bowen. In 1826, he bought his freedom and founded the first Black YMCA in Washington, DC. He was an abolitionist who provided a safe passage for runaway enslaved persons at his home on 900 Block of E Street SW. The home was removed during the building of the SE-SW Freeway.
Margaret Milburn Amidon
Margaret Amidon was a teacher and principal in SW DC at a public girls’ only elementary school in the 1800s. She was a vocal advocate for public schools. She is known for her amiability and scholarship.
Anthony Bowen Elementary School, 2007 | Photo credit: Elvert Barnes