They’re ensuring her legacy is cemented forever!
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is ensuring that the legacy of one of its 22 trailblazing founders, Osceola Macarthy Adams, continues to inspire future generations. The esteemed actress, educator, and activist will be honored with a historical marker in her hometown of Albany, Georgia, recognizing her contributions to the arts, education, and social justice, Black Enterprise reports.
Born on June 13, 1890, Macarthy Adams grew up in Albany on an estate at South Jackson Street and West Highland Avenue before pursuing higher education at Howard University. It was there, on January 13, 1913, that she and 21 other visionary women founded Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Just two months later, Macarthy Adams was among the 50 Black women who boldly participated in the Women’s Suffrage Parade in Washington, D.C., advocating for the voting rights of women—particularly Black women—who were often excluded from the movement.
After graduating, Macarthy Adams moved to New York, making history as one of the first Black actresses to perform on Broadway, breaking barriers in an industry that largely excluded Black talent. She also became a vital force in nurturing the next generation of Black actors, serving as the director of the Studio Theatre School at the American Negro Theatre. Through her work, she helped shape the careers of icons like Ruby Dee, Harry Belafonte, and Sidney Poitier.
Under her stage name, Osceola Archer, she captivated audiences in renowned productions such as The Crucible, The Emperor Jones, and Ring Around the Moon. Her talents extended beyond the stage as she directed classics like The Glass Menagerie, A Streetcar Named Desire, and The Diary of Anne Frank.
Beyond her artistic contributions, Macarthy Adams was a fierce advocate for racial equality in theater. As a member of the Actors’ Equity Association, she served on the Committee on Minority Affairs, working to create opportunities for Black actors in an era when segregation and discrimination were rampant in the industry.
Her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta, recognized her lasting impact in 1978 by establishing “The Osceola”—an award presented to members who have made significant contributions to the arts. Now, more than four decades after her passing, her sisters are working to ensure that her contributions are cemented in history.
The Delta Sigma Theta Albany Alumnae Chapter is spearheading efforts to install the historical marker on the very property where Macarthy Adams was born, with hopes of unveiling it by June 2025. Adding to this honor, Albany Mayor Bo Dorough recently proclaimed February 1st as Osceola Macarthy Adams Day, ensuring that her legacy remains a part of the city’s cultural and historical fabric.
A true Renaissance woman, Osceola Macarthy Adams paved the way for Black women across sectors. With this historical marker, her story will continue to inspire future generations to break barriers and create change—just as she did over a century ago.
Cover photo: Delta Sigma Theta Co-founder Osceola Macarthy Adams to Receive Historical Marker in Hometown of Albany, GA/Photo credit: The Albany Herald