LEXINGTON PARK, Md. – John G. Lancaster, was a consistent voice for quality education and citizens participating in government. In 1940, after graduating from Hampton, John returned to his native Prince Edward County to succeed his father as the Negro county extension agent. His job was abolished, in retaliation for his involvement in the fight for equal education, after the Brown v. Board of Education decision was rendered by the Supreme Court.

Lancaster moved to St. Mary’s County and worked as a 4-H agent, and later as a program specialist at the University of Maryland in College Park.

After retiring in 1978, he devoted himself to volunteering—serving as chair of the Housing Authority, chair of the Youth Commission, and a director of the Cedar Lane Apartments. In addition, he was appointed to the St. Mary’s County Board of Education. In 1982, Lancaster ran unsuccessfully for County Commissioner of St. Mary’s County; however, he came back for a successful run in 1986, becoming the first Black elected to the post. He was re-elected for a second term in 1990.

Lancaster was a member of many civic, religious, and community organizations. He was a deacon at First Missionary Baptist Church. He was also a member of the Democratic Club of St. Mary’s County, Lexington Park Lions Club, Minority Business Alliance, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Randolph Lodge Number 30 Free and Accepted Masons of Farmville, VA., Tau Lambda Lambda Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Jolly Gents Sportsman’s Club, Salt and Pepper, and the National Epsilon Sigma Phi Extension Fraternity. He also served as president of the National Association of 4-H Agents.

As a result of Lancaster’s tireless efforts in his community, he received numerous awards, honors, and citations. Among them were: St. Mary’s County Democrat of the Year (2001), National 4-H Hall of Fame (Inaugural Class), Who’s Who Among Black Americans (1988), Distinguished Personalities of the South and Outstanding Leaders of America (both in 1972).

One of his most prized recognitions came in 2001 with the dedication of a 47-acre park named in his honor—The John G. Lancaster Park at Willows Rd Lexington Park MD

Author : Apryl L. Yates