House adopts resolution honoring Archie and Nancy Martin for support of Black students

The Iowa House adopted House Resolution 8 to honor Archie and Nancy Martin and recognize the Martin family's contributions to the education of Black students at Iowa State College (now Iowa State University).

Representative Johnson and others presented the resolution. The text recounted the Martins’ move from Austell, Georgia, to Ames in 1915; Archie’s employment with the Chicago and North Western Railroad; Nancy’s work as a cook for a local doctor and a Greek house on campus; and the couple’s practice of housing Black students at the Martin House (built around 1919 at 218 Lincoln Way in Ames), which the resolution describes as a local historic landmark. The resolution notes that roughly 20 students lived and dined in the Martin House at various times during the 1930s and 1940s and that the Martins hosted gatherings and distinguished guests.

The resolution also recounts the Martin family's advocacy with Iowa State College leadership that the resolution says helped ease housing difficulties for Black students. The resolution notes the NAACP Ames branch established a Nancy and Archie Martin Woman of the Year Award in February 2008 and that the Martin Foundation established a scholarship for students of color who demonstrate financial need and community service.

On the floor, the sponsor invited the family of Archie Martin to the chamber; the resolution was approved by voice vote. The chair announced, “The ayes do have it. The resolution is approved.”