New marker preserves legacy of North Carolina’s first Black attorney

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A piece of Wilmington history is getting a permanent place on the map. Today, a new historical marker honors George L. Mabson — The first Black lawyer in North Carolina and a trailblazer who helped pave the way for generations to come.

The marker was unveiled on Market Street near 16th Street, commemorating Mabson’s life and legacy.

Mabson was born in 1846 and was born into slavery. He went on to pursue a legal career during a time when Black Americans faced significant barriers to education, professional opportunities and civic life. He died in 1885.

Kimberly Moore, president of the North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers, said Mabson’s accomplishments helped create opportunities for generations of Black attorneys who followed him.

“He paved the way for me to be here. He paved the way for all of us to be here today,” Moore said. “He made the foundation, and the generations of Black lawyers that came behind him were able to build on the foundation.”

The ceremony brought together members of the North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers, local officials and historians, including Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo, District Court Judge James Faison and representatives from the North Carolina Highway Historical Marker program.