Jamestown makes electoral history on two fronts

Paul B. Johnson, The High Point Enterprise, N.C.
·2 min read

Jan. 16—JAMESTOWN — Residents of Jamestown made history twice in one political campaign year when they elected the town's first Black council member and its first all-female Town Council in the recent general election.

Pam Burgess has become the first Black councilwoman in her initial bid for elected office. Burgess and Sarah Glanville won the two seats that were up in the general election. They have joined Mayor Lynn Montgomery and Councilwomen Rebecca Mann Rayborn and Martha Stafford Wolfe.

Montgomery made history of her own seven years ago when she was elected the first female mayor of the town. Montgomery served as a councilwoman for six years prior to becoming mayor.

Jamestown has held municipal elections since the mid-1940s.

Burgess told The High Point Enterprise that she realizes the historic nature of her election but believes she gained her seat based on her ideas for the town's betterment.

"While I have been acknowledged as the first African-American to hold a town council seat in the town's history of elected officials by some, I must say that it should not be a factor of the color of my skin or my race to want to serve my community, but the desire, dedication and qualifications that should be perceived," Burgess said. "Again, my success has proven just that."

Rayborn, who is mayor pro tem, said the historic election sends a message, especially to young people, that anyone of any background can serve as an elected leader.

"I'm excited about it," she said. "I think it's a great thing for people to see — all different kinds of people serving."

Glanville said she's proud to be part of history in Jamestown.

"I'm particularly proud of Pam, who worked tirelessly to make her own history," Glanville said. "This is a time for celebration, but it's also time to get to work."

Burgess and Glanville replaced former councilmen John Capes, who lost in the Nov. 7 general election, and Lawrence Straughn, who didn't seek reelection.

pjohnson@hpenews.com — 336-888-3528 — @HPEpaul