John W. E. Bowen

John Wesley Edward Bowen was known for his speaking ability and served as president of the Gammon Theological Seminary. He was a professor at major colleges like Howard University.

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Bowen was the first African American to earn a PhD from Boston University and the second African American in the United States to earn a PhD.

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During key periods like the 1906 Atlanta Race Riots, he risked his own safety to provide shelter for those affected by violence. He was unafraid to speak his mind on racial issues.

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John Wesley Edward Bowen was a critical religious and intellectual leader in Atlanta. He lived in the city for many years and it became his final resting place.