Born into slavery, Calvin's childhood would have been marked by hard labor, deprivation, and the constant threat of violence. Slaves were considered property and had no legal rights. Families were often separated, with members sold to different owners. Education for slaves was forbidden by law, under the constant surveillance and punishment of overseers.

Despite these oppressive conditions, Calvin demonstrated remarkable resilience. Somehow, he managed to learn to read and write—a feat that required immense courage and ingenuity, as slaves caught attempting to educate themselves were severely punished. This literacy would later prove crucial in his quest for freedom and leadership.

The Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 declared the freedom of slaves in Confederate states, but it did not immediately translate to true freedom for all. Many former slaves, like Calvin, found themselves without resources, homes, or means of livelihood. The end of the Civil War in 1865 brought further turmoil, as the South was in ruins and racial hostilities persisted.

After the war, Calvin, with his newfound freedom, sought a new life and eventually landed in Mississippi. In his travels, he met Harriet Gibson, of Corinth, Mississippi, and married her in1870. At that time, Mississippi was the only state in the Lower Mississippi Valley that had not fully acknowledged the abolition of slavery, and the harsh realities of living as a non-white family there soon became apparent. Calvin, along with his family and two others—the O’Neal and Billworth families—fled the state in hopes of finding a safer environment to raise their children. Calvin's ability to read and write positioned him as a natural leader among the group, guiding them through uncertain and dangerous times. 

Determined to find a safer environment to raise their families, their journey ended in Telico, St Francis County, Arkansas, where  Calvin and Harriet found a semblance of stability. They had four children and worked hard to provide for their family. Calvin’s skills as a carpenter would have been invaluable, allowing him to build a livelihood despite the pervasive racism and economic hardship that African Americans faced during Reconstruction.

Calvin’s life was a testament to resilience and determination. He not only survived the harsh conditions of slavery but also led his family and others to new beginnings in a post-emancipation world. His ability to read and write, acquired against all odds, enabled him to navigate and overcome the immeasurable challenges of his time. His legacy continued through his children and their descendants, who carried forward his spirit of perseverance and hope.

Living through such a transformative period in American history, Calvin Graham’s life encapsulates the struggle, resilience, and ultimate triumph of African Americans in the face of oppression. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and determination required to overcome the darkest chapters of history and forge a path toward freedom and equality.

North Carolina, USA

Died: October 24, 1906

Sugar Creek Township

Calvin married Harriet Gibson of Mississippi in 1870 and ten children were born to this union. 

1. James Graham: December 12, 1868 (born in Colt Arkansas)

2. Andrew Graham:  January 6, 1870 – March 24, 1951

3. Johnny Graham – September 30, 1871

4. Nancy Graham: July 28, 1873 (born in Colt Arkansas)

5. Eddie Graham: April 18, 1875 – April 1930

6. George Graham: May 9, 1877 – July 11, 1913

7. Mack Graham: April 3,1879 – July 19, 1942 

8. Willie Graham Page – December 25, 1883 – February 1951 (female)

9. Ella Graham Hampton – March 10, 1885 – November 22, 1978

10. Robert Graham Scott – May 7, 1886 (half-brother)

11. Thomas Westley Graham: December 30, 1898 – December 24, 1968