Joseph Jenkins Robertscirca 1851
Reproduction from a daguerreotype
Rufus Anson, daguerreotypist
Courtesy of the Library of Congress

Virginia is the home of two founding presidents: George Washington and Joseph Jenkins Roberts. Born in Norfolk and reared in Petersburg, Roberts became the first President of the Republic of Liberia. Roberts was a skilled barber and boatman who became a merchant when he emigrated to Liberia. His family owned small river craft, a commercial venture that allowed him to move among the elite of Petersburg's large, free black population. He served as president from 1847 to 1855 and 1871 to 1876. African-American daguerrotypist Rufus Anson of New York City probably took this image of President Roberts during the latter's visit to the United States.