LIFE@Lynchburg | The Life and Legacy of Dr. Robert Walter “Whirlwind” Johnson
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Presented by Jill Walker Roberts and Robert W. Johnson III
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Dr. Johnson was the first Black physician to receive privileges at Lynchburg General Hospital and the person credited for integrating professional tennis. His life has particular significance for African American history and culture in Lynchburg and beyond. Although he was soft spoken, he had unflinching determination and his work led to the first Black players being allowed into the main draw of the U.S. Nationals at Forest Hills. Dr. Johnson coached Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe, the first two African Americans to win major tennis titles. These famous athletes were both trained on this historic property in Lynchburg. For almost 25 years, from 1947 to 1971, Dr. Johnson positively influenced the lives of more than 200 juniors through the sport of tennis.
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Dr. Johnson was the first Black physician to receive privileges at Lynchburg General Hospital and the person credited for integrating professional tennis. His life has particular significance for African American history and culture in Lynchburg and beyond. Although he was soft spoken, he had unflinching determination and his work led to the first Black players being allowed into the main draw of the U.S. Nationals at Forest Hills. Dr. Johnson coached Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe, the first two African Americans to win major tennis titles. These famous athletes were both trained on this historic property in Lynchburg. For almost 25 years, from 1947 to 1971, Dr. Johnson positively influenced the lives of more than 200 juniors through the sport of tennis.
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Where is it happening?
Sydnor Performance Hall, Lynchburg, United States
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Host or PublisherLIFE at Lynchburg
