Leon F. Peterson – Beloit Historical Society’s first African American Hall of Famer, inducted posthumously in 1971.

The following article was taken from the Beloit Daily News:

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY TOLD IN BELOIT
Beloit Daily News – February 2, 2007
Beloit Historical Society honors Black History Month
Contributed by Paul Kerr – Beloit Historical Society Director

"Leon F. Peterson
There was a man among us whose wisdom and concern for the rest of us made life more livable for all.

Leon Peterson was for his many friends so much a symbol of that good will and understanding of men as brothers that it has been an honor for those friends to perpetuate his memory in our community in such a way that his past may bless others.

He was born May 7, 1892 in Pontiac, Ill. He was the son of a Methodist minister and came to Beloit in October of 1909. He attended high school and graduated in 1910. In 1921, He married Ocie Nunn and enjoyed 40 years of married life.

During his lifetime, Peterson was active in church, civic and fraternal affairs. He was associated with the Wisconsin Power and Light Company for 45 years. He served in the Army and in War I from October of 1917 to March of 1919. Leon was a charter member of the W.B. Kennedy Lodge No. 3F and A.M. and was Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Wisconsin for six years. He also was a trustee of the Bethel A.M.E. Church for 25 years, a charter member of the Beloit NAACP, Scout master for many years and member of the State Line Council. Leon also was active in the furtherance of human and Civil Rights.

He died in October of 1961, leaving behind a legacy of love and good will that was an example for all who follow."