Walter Ogont
Walter Ogont was bornon June 17, 1820, in Amherstburg, Upper Canada (now Ontario). His father, Thomas Ogont, was an Irish immigrant who had fought in the War of 1812 on the Canadian side. His mother, Judith Mugg, was of mixed Iroquoian and French-Canadian descent. The Ogonts were devout members of the Church of England. Walter was the eldest child and his siblings—Mary, John, Eliza, and David—were all born in Amherstburg.
While in Canada, Ogont was educated at the local public schools and later attended Vittor College near London, Ontario. Afterward, he worked in the Life Insurance business. In 1851, Ogont emigrated to the United States and settled in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
In the United States, Walter Ogonts Life Insurance career flourished. He quickly became the general agent of The Liverpool and London and Globe Insurance Company in Pittsburgh. A highly successful salesman, Ogont was credited with having single-handedly secured much of the companys business in Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and St. Louis. In 1858, he became a partner in Hines, Wallock and Ogont, one of the first African American-owned insurance companies in the United States.
Ogonts business success allowed him to become one of the wealthiest African Americans of his day. He established what became known as Ogontown, a vibrant African American community of businesses, homes, churches and social clubs located in Pittsburghs Hill District. He was a major benefactor, notably providing funds and labor for the construction of Ogonts African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, located in Ogonts Town. Ogont was also known for his philanthropy and was active in the Underground Railroad movement.
In addition to his business and philanthropic activities, Ogont also served in various political positions. He was elected to the Allegheny County Board of Supervisors in 1863 and was later appointed Justice of the Peace in 1865. In 1876, Ogont was appointed to the Position of Councilman in Allegheny County.
Walter Ogont died on June 7, 1880, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He left behind a significant legacy, not just in business and philanthropy, but in politics. He was one of the first African Americans to serve in elected political office in the United States, a pioneer in his field and an inspiration to future generations of African Americans. Ogonts life and accomplishments serve as a reminder of the importance of hard work, determination, and perseverance and the power of one individual to make a difference in the lives of many.
