Lena Horne, the legendary singer, actress, and civil rights activist, was born on June 30, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York. Her parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, both came from prominent African American families and were part of the Great Migration, the movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North during the early 20th century.
Edwin Fletcher Horne was a successful businessman and real estate developer. He was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and moved to Brooklyn as a young man. Edna Scottron Horne was a talented singer and actress. She was born in Louisville, Kentucky, and moved to Brooklyn after her first marriage ended. Edwin and Edna met in Brooklyn and married in 1914.
Lena Horne's parents had a profound influence on her life and career. Edwin Horne instilled in his daughter a strong sense of pride in her African American heritage and encouraged her to pursue her dreams. Edna Horne's love of music and theater inspired Lena to enter show business. Lena Horne's parents were also active in the civil rights movement, and their commitment to equality and justice left a lasting impression on their daughter.
lena horne parents
Influential figures in Lena Horne's life.
- Edwin Fletcher Horne
- Edna Scottron Horne
- Prominent African American families
- Great Migration participants
- Supportive of Lena's career
- Active in civil rights movement
- Strong sense of pride in heritage
- Encouragement to pursue dreams
- Inspiration for Lena's career
- Commitment to equality and justice
Lena Horne's parents played a pivotal role in shaping her identity, career, and activism.
Edwin Fletcher Horne
Edwin Fletcher Horne, Lena Horne's father, was a successful businessman, real estate developer, and community leader.
- Prominent businessman:
Edwin Horne owned and operated several businesses, including a successful contracting company. He was also a real estate developer and investor, and he played a significant role in the development of Brooklyn's Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood.
- Active in the community:
Edwin Horne was actively involved in the Brooklyn community. He served on the board of directors of several organizations, including the Brooklyn Urban League and the NAACP. He was also a member of the Masons and the Elks.
- Supportive of Lena's career:
Edwin Horne was a strong supporter of his daughter's career. He encouraged her to pursue her dreams and provided her with the financial and emotional support she needed to succeed. He was also a vocal advocate for her civil rights activism.
- Proud of his African American heritage:
Edwin Horne was a proud African American man. He instilled in his daughter a strong sense of pride in her heritage and encouraged her to embrace her identity. He was also a strong advocate for racial equality and justice.
Edwin Fletcher Horne was a successful businessman, community leader, and loving father. He played a pivotal role in shaping Lena Horne's life and career, and his legacy continues to inspire African Americans today.
Edna Scottron Horne
Edna Scottron Horne, Lena Horne's mother, was a talented singer, actress, and community activist.
- Talented singer and actress:
Edna Horne had a beautiful singing voice and a natural talent for acting. She performed in several stage productions and toured the country with a singing group. She also appeared in a few films, including "Hallelujah!" (1929) and "Cabin in the Sky" (1943).
- Active in the community:
Edna Horne was actively involved in the Brooklyn community. She was a member of the NAACP and the Urban League, and she worked to improve the lives of African Americans in her community. She was also a strong advocate for women's rights.
- Inspiration for Lena's career:
Edna Horne's love of music and theater inspired Lena to pursue a career in show business. Lena often said that her mother was her greatest inspiration, and she credited her mother with teaching her the importance of hard work and perseverance.
- Commitment to equality and justice:
Edna Horne was a lifelong advocate for equality and justice. She raised her children to be proud of their African American heritage and to fight for their rights. She was also a strong supporter of the civil rights movement, and she participated in many protests and demonstrations.
Edna Scottron Horne was a talented artist, a dedicated community activist, and a loving mother. She played a pivotal role in shaping Lena Horne's life and career, and her legacy continues to inspire African Americans today.
Prominent African American families
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, both came from prominent African American families. Edwin's father, John Horne, was a successful businessman and community leader in Memphis, Tennessee. He was also a close friend of Booker T. Washington, the founder of Tuskegee Institute. Edna's father, John Scottron, was a minister and educator. He was also a strong advocate for racial equality and justice.
Both Edwin and Edna were raised in families that valued education, hard work, and community service. They were also taught to be proud of their African American heritage and to fight for their rights. These values had a profound impact on Lena Horne's life and career.
Lena Horne often spoke about the importance of her family's legacy. She said, "I come from a long line of strong, independent black women. My mother and grandmother were both very active in the civil rights movement, and they taught me the importance of fighting for what you believe in." Horne also credited her family with giving her the confidence to pursue her dreams. She said, "My parents always told me that I could do anything I set my mind to. They gave me the strength and courage to follow my dreams, even when it was difficult."
Lena Horne's parents were part of a generation of African Americans who fought for equality and justice. They came from prominent families that valued education, hard work, and community service. These values had a profound impact on Lena Horne's life and career, and her legacy continues to inspire African Americans today.
The Horne family is a testament to the strength and resilience of African Americans in the face of adversity. They overcame racism and discrimination to achieve great things. Their story is an inspiration to us all.
Great Migration participants
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, were both participants in the Great Migration, the movement of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North during the early 20th century.
- Seeking economic opportunities:
Many African Americans left the South in search of better economic opportunities in the North. Edwin Horne moved to Brooklyn in search of work, and he eventually became a successful businessman and real estate developer. Edna Scottron Horne moved to Brooklyn after her first marriage ended, and she found work as a singer and actress.
- Escaping racial discrimination:
African Americans also left the South to escape racial discrimination and violence. The Jim Crow laws of the South enforced segregation and discrimination in all aspects of life. Edwin and Edna Horne both experienced racism and discrimination in the South, and they moved to Brooklyn to create a better life for themselves and their children.
- Pursuing educational opportunities:
African Americans also moved to the North to pursue educational opportunities. Brooklyn had a number of excellent schools and colleges, and Edwin and Edna Horne wanted their children to have the best possible education. Lena Horne attended the prestigious Girls' High School in Brooklyn, and she later studied at the Juilliard School of Music.
- Building a new community:
African Americans who moved to the North often settled in segregated neighborhoods. However, they also created new communities and institutions that served their needs. Edwin and Edna Horne were active members of the Brooklyn African American community, and they helped to build institutions such as churches, schools, and social clubs.
The Great Migration was a major turning point in American history. It led to the growth of African American communities in the North and Midwest, and it helped to fuel the civil rights movement. Lena Horne's parents were part of this historic movement, and their story is an important part of American history.
Supportive of Lena's career
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, were both very supportive of their daughter's career in show business.
- Encouraging her talent:
Edwin and Edna recognized Lena's talent for singing and dancing at a young age. They encouraged her to pursue her dreams of a career in show business, and they provided her with the resources and support she needed to succeed.
- Providing financial support:
Edwin and Edna paid for Lena's singing and dancing lessons, and they helped her to get her start in show business. They also provided financial support when Lena was first starting out in her career, and they helped her to overcome the many obstacles she faced as an African American woman in the entertainment industry.
- Attending her performances:
Edwin and Edna were always there to support Lena at her performances. They attended her concerts, plays, and movies, and they always gave her a standing ovation. Their presence at her performances meant a lot to Lena, and it gave her the confidence she needed to succeed.
- Offering advice and guidance:
Edwin and Edna were always there to offer Lena advice and guidance about her career. They helped her to choose the right roles, and they taught her how to navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry. Their advice and guidance helped Lena to become one of the most successful and respected entertainers of her time.
Lena Horne's parents were her biggest fans and supporters. They believed in her talent, and they were always there for her. Their love and support helped Lena to achieve her dreams and to become one of the most iconic entertainers of all time.
Active in civil rights movement
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, were both active in the civil rights movement. They were members of the NAACP and the Urban League, and they worked to fight for equality and justice for African Americans.
Edwin Horne was a particularly outspoken advocate for civil rights. He spoke out against racism and discrimination, and he called for an end to segregation. He also used his business connections to support African American businesses and organizations.
Edna Horne was also a strong supporter of civil rights. She participated in protests and demonstrations, and she spoke out against racism and discrimination. She also used her singing and acting talents to raise awareness of the civil rights movement.
Lena Horne was inspired by her parents' activism, and she became a civil rights activist herself. She used her platform as a celebrity to speak out against racism and discrimination, and she participated in many protests and demonstrations. She also donated money to civil rights organizations, and she helped to raise awareness of the movement.
The Horne family was a prominent African American family that was actively involved in the civil rights movement. Their work helped to make a difference in the lives of African Americans, and their legacy continues to inspire activists today.
The Horne family is a shining example of how individuals can use their talents and resources to make a difference in the world. Their activism helped to advance the cause of civil rights, and their legacy continues to inspire people today.
Strong sense of pride in heritage
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, both had a strong sense of pride in their African American heritage. They taught their daughter to be proud of her heritage, and they encouraged her to embrace her identity.
Edwin Horne was particularly proud of his African American heritage. He was a member of the NAACP and the Urban League, and he worked to fight for equality and justice for African Americans. He also instilled in his daughter a strong sense of self-respect and dignity.
Edna Horne was also proud of her African American heritage. She was a talented singer and actress, and she used her talents to celebrate African American culture and history. She also taught her daughter the importance of education and hard work.
Lena Horne inherited her parents' strong sense of pride in her African American heritage. She was proud of her roots, and she used her platform as a celebrity to speak out against racism and discrimination. She also used her talents to celebrate African American culture and history.
The Horne family was a prominent African American family that was proud of its heritage. They taught their daughter to be proud of her heritage, and they encouraged her to embrace her identity. Lena Horne carried on her parents' legacy, and she became a powerful voice for equality and justice.
The Horne family is a shining example of how African Americans can overcome racism and discrimination to achieve great things. Their story is an inspiration to us all.
Encouragement to pursue dreams
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, were both very supportive of their daughter's dreams of a career in show business. They encouraged her to pursue her passion, and they provided her with the resources and support she needed to succeed.
Edwin Horne was particularly supportive of Lena's dreams. He recognized her talent for singing and dancing, and he encouraged her to take lessons and pursue her passion. He also provided her with financial support when she was first starting out in her career.
Edna Horne was also very supportive of Lena's dreams. She was a talented singer and actress herself, and she shared her love of music and theater with her daughter. She also taught Lena the importance of hard work and perseverance.
Lena Horne was grateful for her parents' support. She said, "My parents were always there for me. They believed in me, and they encouraged me to follow my dreams. I wouldn't be where I am today without them."
Lena Horne's parents were instrumental in helping her to achieve her dreams. Their love, support, and encouragement gave her the confidence she needed to succeed in show business.
The Horne family is a shining example of how parents can support their children's dreams. Their story is an inspiration to us all.
Inspiration for Lena's career
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, were both talented artists who inspired their daughter to pursue a career in show business.
Edna Horne was a talented singer and actress. She performed in several stage productions and toured the country with a singing group. She also appeared in a few films, including "Hallelujah!" (1929) and "Cabin in the Sky" (1943). Edna's love of music and theater inspired Lena to pursue a career in show business.
Edwin Horne was a successful businessman, but he also had a passion for the arts. He was a member of the board of directors of the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and he was a strong supporter of the arts community. Edwin's appreciation for the arts inspired Lena to pursue a career in show business.
Lena Horne was also inspired by her parents' activism. Edwin and Edna were both active in the civil rights movement, and they taught Lena the importance of fighting for justice. Lena's parents' activism inspired her to use her platform as a celebrity to speak out against racism and discrimination.
Lena Horne's parents were a major inspiration in her life and career. Their love of music, theater, and activism inspired Lena to pursue a career in show business and to use her platform to make a difference in the world.
The Horne family is a shining example of how parents can inspire their children to achieve great things. Their story is an inspiration to us all.
Commitment to equality and justice
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, were both committed to equality and justice for all people.
- Active in the civil rights movement:
Edwin and Edna Horne were both active in the civil rights movement. They were members of the NAACP and the Urban League, and they worked to fight for equality and justice for African Americans. They also participated in protests and demonstrations, and they spoke out against racism and discrimination.
- Fought for equal rights for all:
Edwin and Edna Horne fought for equal rights for all people, regardless of race, religion, or gender. They believed that everyone deserved to be treated with dignity and respect.
- Taught their daughter the importance of equality and justice:
Edwin and Edna Horne taught their daughter, Lena, the importance of equality and justice. They taught her to stand up for what she believed in, and they encouraged her to use her voice to speak out against injustice.
- Inspired Lena to use her platform to make a difference:
Lena Horne was inspired by her parents' commitment to equality and justice. She used her platform as a celebrity to speak out against racism and discrimination, and she worked to promote understanding and equality among all people.
Lena Horne's parents were lifelong advocates for equality and justice. Their commitment to making the world a better place inspired their daughter, Lena, to use her voice and her platform to make a difference in the world.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Lena Horne's parents:
Question 1: What were Lena Horne's parents' names?
Answer: Lena Horne's parents were Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne.
Question 2: What did Lena Horne's parents do for a living?
Answer: Edwin Horne was a successful businessman and real estate developer. Edna Horne was a talented singer and actress.
Question 3: Where did Lena Horne's parents come from?
Answer: Edwin Horne was from Memphis, Tennessee. Edna Horne was from Louisville, Kentucky.
Question 4: Were Lena Horne's parents involved in the civil rights movement?
Answer: Yes, Lena Horne's parents were both active in the civil rights movement. They were members of the NAACP and the Urban League, and they worked to fight for equality and justice for African Americans.
Question 5: How did Lena Horne's parents influence her career?
Answer: Lena Horne's parents were very supportive of her career in show business. They encouraged her to pursue her dreams, and they provided her with the resources and support she needed to succeed.
Question 6: What are some of Lena Horne's parents' most notable accomplishments?
Answer: Edwin Horne was a successful businessman and real estate developer. He was also a strong supporter of the arts community. Edna Horne was a talented singer and actress. She also used her platform to speak out against racism and discrimination.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
Lena Horne's parents were remarkable people who made a significant contribution to American history and culture. Their commitment to equality and justice, their support of the arts, and their love for their daughter are an inspiration to us all.
Here are some tips for parents who want to support their children's dreams:
Tips
Here are some tips for parents who want to support their children's dreams:
Tip 1: Believe in your child.
The first step to supporting your child's dreams is to believe in them. Let your child know that you believe in their ability to achieve their goals. This will give them the confidence they need to pursue their dreams.
Tip 2: Encourage your child to follow their passion.
Every child is different, and they have different passions. Encourage your child to explore their interests and to find what they are passionate about. Once they find their passion, they will be more likely to work hard and to achieve their goals.
Tip 3: Provide your child with the resources they need.
Your child may need different resources to achieve their dreams. This could include financial support, educational opportunities, or simply your time and attention. Whatever your child needs, do your best to provide it for them.
Tip 4: Be there for your child every step of the way.
Your child's journey to achieving their dreams will not always be easy. There will be times when they face challenges and setbacks. Be there for your child during these difficult times. Offer them your love, support, and encouragement. Let them know that you are always there for them, no matter what.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
Supporting your child's dreams is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. By believing in your child, encouraging them to follow their passion, providing them with the resources they need, and being there for them every step of the way, you can help your child achieve their dreams and live a happy and fulfilling life.
Conclusion:
Conclusion
Summary of Main Points:
Lena Horne's parents, Edwin Fletcher Horne and Edna Scottron Horne, were remarkable people who made a significant contribution to American history and culture. They were both successful in their own careers, and they were also active in the civil rights movement. They raised their daughter, Lena, to be a strong and independent woman who used her voice to speak out against injustice. Lena Horne's parents were a major influence on her life and career, and their legacy continues to inspire people today.
Closing Message:
Parents play a vital role in shaping the lives of their children. They can help their children to achieve their dreams by believing in them, encouraging them to follow their passion, providing them with the resources they need, and being there for them every step of the way. Lena Horne's parents are a shining example of how parents can make a difference in the lives of their children. They raised a daughter who became a legendary singer, actress, and civil rights activist. Their love, support, and encouragement helped Lena Horne to achieve her dreams and to make a difference in the world.
Parents, you are your child's greatest advocate and supporter. Believe in your child, encourage them to follow their dreams, and be there for them every step of the way. You can help your child to achieve their dreams and to live a happy and fulfilling life.