Alfred Francis Russell

Alfred Francis Russell, born on August twenty-fifth, eighteen seventeen, in Lexington, Kentucky, was a prominent Americo-Liberian missionary, planter, and politician. He was emancipated in eighteen thirty-three alongside his mother, Amelie 'Milly' Crawford, by their mistress, Mary Owen Todd Russell Wickliffe, who was also his grandmother through his white father. This act of emancipation allowed both families to emigrate from the United States to Liberia that same year, marking the beginning of a significant journey.

Russell's life in Liberia was marked by his dedication to both his faith and his community. He served as a Methodist missionary and later became a successful planter, owning a large coffee and sugarcane farm. His commitment to public service led him to enter politics, where he was elected to the Liberian Senate and served as President Pro Tempore. His political career culminated in his presidency, as he took office as the tenth president of Liberia from eighteen eighty-three to eighteen eighty-four, succeeding Anthony W. Gardiner.

In his personal life, Alfred F. Russell married and had a daughter named Julia Ann. Julia later married John Douglas Simpson, who was one of the first black congressmen from Florida, United States. Their family lineage continued to thrive, with several children, including Alpha Douglas Simpson, who was the father of Clarence L. Simpson Sr., a future vice president of Liberia. Russell's legacy is a testament to his contributions to both his country and his family.