Reviewed by: Michael Seale
Did you know the most influential Drakes in Huntsville?
Huntsville is home to multiple Drake families who have left a lasting legacy on the city.
If you’ve ever driven on Drake Avenue or past J.F. Drake State State Community College and wondered how they got their name look no further!
Dr. Joseph Fanning Drake
Joseph Fanning Drake was the fourth and longest-running president of Alabama A&M and served for 37 years from 1927 until his death in 1964. During his time as president, Drake not only kept the school running through the Depression, WW2, and the civil rights movement, but managed to add over forty buildings (including their first greenhouse), 600 acres of land, and triple the faculty and student population of the school.
In 1966 the Huntsville State Vocational Technical College was renamed to J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College to honor the late Dr. Drake. (via Huntsville History Collection)
Joseph Fanning Drake wasn’t the only influential member of his family for Huntsville, his son Harold also made waves.
Dr. Harold Fanning Drake
Dr. Harold Fanning Drake was a successful medical man who helped break the color barrier in Huntsville by becoming the first Black doctor on staff at Huntsville Hospital and the first Black member to serve on the board of the Madison County Medical Society.
In the 1960’s Harrold ran for mayor of Huntsville, and although he didn’t win he successfully led an effort to expand the number of Black voters in Huntsville. (via Dr. Harold Fanning Drake, a Very Dedicated Doctor of Madison County)
He and his wife opened clinics for midwives and expected mothers and Dr. Drake served on the boards of many organizations, schools, and non-profits throughout his life, working hard to improve our community.
What about Drave Avenue?
Drake Avenue has a much older origin than most people probably thought. Its namesake can be traced back to the early 1800s when a man named John Drake moved his family to Huntsville after the Revolutionary War.
John was a captain in the war and used his influence to purchase a large amount of land, which is now known as Jones Valley. John Drake’s name can be found in other areas around North Alabama including Drake Mountain and King Drake Road. (via Why is it Named That?)
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