George L. Mabson, Among the State's First African American Attorneys, to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

A man who was among the first African Americans to practice law in North Carolina soon will be recognized with a North Carolina Highway Historical Marker. The N.C. Historical Marker Program is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

The marker commemorating George L. Mabson will be placed at the intersection of Market and 16th streets in Wilmington and dedicated during a ceremony Saturday, Aug. 15 at 3 p.m., at the Hotel Ballast Wilmington (301 N. Water St., Wilmington, N.C.).

Mabson, born in 1846, occupies an important place in the history of North Carolina during the Reconstruction era, becoming one of the first African American lawyers licensed to practice in the state. His career reflects the legal, political, and social changes that followed the Civil War and highlights how Black professionals contributed to public life during a transformative period.

Mabson received his legal education at Howard University. In June 1871, he and Thomas R. Warrick appealed to the United States Supreme Court for law licenses. Both men received approval, but Warrick soon left the state to practice in Washington, D.C., leaving Mabson as the first Black lawyer to actively practice law in North Carolina courts.

Mabson's influence extended far beyond the courtroom. He was deeply involved in the political life of Wilmington and the broader region. He served as a speaker at Republican meetings as early as 1867 and was regarded by some observers as a political leader among African Americans in North Carolina. He held multiple public offices, including service in the North Carolina House of Representatives from 1870 to 1872 and in the State Senate from 1872-74. He also participated in the constitutional convention of 1875.

Reports also indicate his activity in the Giblem Masonic Lodge, the Hanover Light Infantry militia unit, and the Grand Army of the Republic. He was a vice president at the 1877 African American convention held in Raleigh, which brought together community leaders to discuss political strategies during a time of increasing pressure on Black civil rights.

Mabson died in 1885.

For more information about the historical marker, please visit the George Mabson blog post, or call (919) 814-6625.

The Highway Historical Marker Program is a collaboration between the N.C. departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Transportation.

About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina - its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. At more than 100 sites across the state, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.