Background
Handy, James A. was born on December 22, 1826 in Baltimore. Son of Ishmael and Nancy Handy.
Handy, James A. was born on December 22, 1826 in Baltimore. Son of Ishmael and Nancy Handy.
His father was a slave and his mother a free woman. School education limited to 3 months.
Began as sexton, and in 57 years filled every position, including that of bishop. Pastor churches in Maryland., Virginia, South Carolina., New Orleans, Louisiana. Financial secretary, 1888-1892 (purchased department building, Washington, District of Columbia, and turned it over to General Conference free of debt and $17,000 surplus).
Elected bishop, 1892, and acted as superintendent, successively, of 5th, 2d and 11th districts.
Superannuated at age of 83, in 1908.