Hugh Gaddy

Founder/President

From the time I was in second grade and read a book about Harriet Tubman, I was consumed with a love of Black History.There was an immediate psychological connection --- this amazing woman whose skin looked like that of mine and my parents. I knew there had to be information about other Black people and I wanted to find it all!

At age 50, I'm old enough to remember when we had Black History Week. There were Black teachers at my newly integrated elementary school who were afraid to say much about Black History for fear of losing their jobs. One teacher, however, Mrs. Rivers, recognized my interest in the subject and would bring me books from her home library. As fast as she brought them, I read them.

Over the years I've matured, gone to college and now, in my work, employ a somewhat more sophisticated, academic approach to the study of the Black Experience, including Black History. But I'll never forget the genuine feeling of pride I got 40 years ago, from a 20-page children's book about a slave woman dedicated to freeing her people.

For those who know me, it's no surprise that as an entrepreneur, I'm still motivated by my love of Black History. My desire is to create within OUR children, the same excitement I felt when hearing stories about the well-known and obscure figures in OUR History who have left us such a profound, powerful and inspiring legacy. I sincerely believe it's OUR RESPONSIBILITY to pass the precious gift of knowledge on to the future generations of Black choldren.

In 1992, my brothers and I created an original product called BLACK LEGACY TRADING CARDS. They combine the concept of the sports trading card with the purpose of teaching Black History. BLACK LEGACY TRADING CARDS continue to be our biggest selling product.

You can find out more about BLACK LEGACY TRADING CARDS and other original products and initiatives that promote Black History year-round at our website.