The James H. Sills, Jr. statue was unveiled and dedicated on April 30, 2022, at South Park Drive and North Market Street in Wilmington, in a community gathering that featured local and national luminaries. However, none outshone the guest of honor. Dr. James H. Sills, Jr. is a revered leader, activist, coalition builder and public servant who made history as the first African American mayor of Wilmington, Delaware, charting a memorable and productive two terms in office armed with a commitment of service to “all of the people,” and to “a Wilmington that works for all.”
An alumnus of Atlanta’s prestigious Morehouse College, he previously served with distinction in the Delaware House of Representatives from 1984 to 1992, and as president of the Wilmington NAACP. Born in North Carolina, Sills first moved to Wilmington in 1959 with his wife, Evelyn, where he worked for the Family Court of Delaware. He also notably taught for 25 years at the University of Delaware.
Sills also was involved with oversight of the desegregation of Wilmington public schools in the 1970s, and in 1987 founded the influential nonprofit, the Delaware Community Reinvestment Action Council. The Sills statue was created by respected sculptor Jon D. Hair, and celebrates Sills’ legacy of 60 years in public and community service. And that service continues today, as Sills serves as President Emeritus of the African American Heritage Institute.
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