As we reflect upon Alpha Phi Alpha’s rich history, we recognize the remarkable contributions of Brother Lemuel Eugene Graves, a native son of Raleigh, North Carolina, and one of the original initiates of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Brother Graves was born on February 22, 1887, in Raleigh to Willis Graves, a skilled brick mason, and Eleanor Graves, an educator. His parents were respected leaders within the historic Oberlin community, a self-sufficient neighborhood established by formerly enslaved people and free Black citizens. Their commitment to education, hard work, and community service helped shape the character of a young man who would become one of Alpha Phi Alpha’s earliest trailblazers.
Before attending Cornell University, Brother Graves studied at St. Augustine’s Normal School and later earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Shaw University. His educational journey reflected the determination and intellectual excellence that would become hallmarks of Alpha men.
On October 30, 1906, Brother Lemuel Eugene Graves was unanimously selected as one of the first initiates of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. His involvement in the Fraternity was immediate and substantial. He provided entertainment during the Zion Church Bazaar and, in January 1907, was appointed to the Committee on Constitution and By-Laws.
Meeting minutes from the Fraternity’s earliest days reveal Brother Graves’ active participation in shaping Alpha Phi Alpha. Throughout the remainder of the academic year, he consistently made and seconded motions during meetings held on January 15 and February 15, 1907. He also contributed to the research and development of the Fraternity pin, served on the first Shingle Committee, and participated on the committee responsible for chartering the Fraternity.
His leadership continued over the following years. During the Second Initiation Banquet on October 26, 1907, he delivered remarks entitled “What Does College Life Mean?” When Alpha Phi Alpha incorporated on January 29, 1908, Brother Graves was elected to serve on the Fraternity’s Board of Trustees.
In 1909, he served as Secretary and was appointed to help establish Eta Chapter at Columbia University alongside Brother Roscoe Conkling Giles. His name also appears among those responsible for organizing Iota Chapter at Syracuse University on March 28, 1910.
Brother Graves represented the Fraternity as a delegate to the Second Annual Convention held in Richmond, Virginia, from December 27–29, 1909, where he also served on the Committee on Ritual. In 1910, he graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture before pursuing graduate studies at Columbia University.
During his years at Cornell, Brother Graves was remembered fondly by his classmates. A yearbook profile described him as a student who initially appeared reserved but gradually became “a jolly good fellow,” admired for both his intellect and personality.
Over the next decade, Brother Graves maintained a close relationship with Alpha Phi Alpha. In 1916, he became a member of an alumni chapter in Tallahassee, Florida, while serving as a Professor of Botany at Florida A&M College (now Florida A&M University), where he taught for five years.
Historical records indicate that he attended the Initiation Banquet of Delta Lambda Chapter in Atlanta on July 15, 1919, which later became Eta Lambda Chapter. This event is believed to be the last documented record of his direct Fraternity involvement.
By 1920, Brother Graves had returned to Raleigh, where he entered the real estate and insurance professions. He served as Secretary and General Manager of Eagle Life Insurance Company, building a successful career while remaining active in civic leadership.
Brother Graves devoted himself to improving his community through service in organizations including the Negro Business League, Negro Welfare Chest, and the Raleigh Emancipation Society. He also served on the Board of Trustees for St. Augustine’s College, continuing his lifelong commitment to education and community advancement.
Following the economic hardships of the Great Depression, Brother Graves relocated his family to Harlem, New York, during the height of the Harlem Renaissance. There, he continued working in real estate while remaining an accomplished businessman and respected community leader.
Outside of his professional life, Brother Graves enjoyed traveling, was known as a sharp dresser, appreciated fine cigars, and wrote poetry. He married Louise M. Martin, and together they raised three children: Lemuel Jr., Dorothy, and Louise Eleanor.
His achievements were recognized nationally when he was included in the 1941 edition of Who’s Who in Colored America.
Brother Graves entered Omega Chapter in 1957, leaving behind a legacy worthy of remembrance.
The Home of Brother Lemuel Eugene Graves
Brother Graves spent his childhood in Raleigh at what is now recognized as one of the city’s historic landmarks.
He was one of six children born to Willie and Eleanor Graves. His siblings included Willie Jr., George, Mildred, Christine, and Leroy. Their family home, constructed by his father, is an outstanding example of Queen Anne architecture. Willis Graves personally built the residence using materials he acquired through his trade as a master brick mason.
Today, the beautifully restored residence is known as the Graves-Fields House and stands as a designated Raleigh Historic Landmark.
Located at 816 Oberlin Road in Raleigh, North Carolina, the home has been carefully preserved to honor both the Graves family and the historic Oberlin community. The property sits approximately 3.5 miles (about a 10-minute drive) from the Raleigh Convention Center, making it an excellent destination for Brothers and visitors wishing to experience an important piece of Alpha and Raleigh history.
The Graves-Fields House serves as a lasting reminder that Alpha Phi Alpha’s story extends beyond college campuses and convention halls. It lives within the communities, families, and historic places shaped by the vision and leadership of our earliest Brothers.
Brother Lemuel Eugene Graves helped lay the very foundation upon which Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was built. His leadership during the Fraternity’s formative years, his dedication to scholarship, and his lifelong commitment to service embody the principles that continue to define Alpha men today.
His legacy reminds us that history is not simply remembered—it is preserved through the lives we honor and the stories we continue to tell.
Fraternally Submitted,
Brother Sean C. Hall
Historian
© 2026 Sean Hall. This content may not be copied or reproduced without the express written permission from Brother Sean Hall.
