Skip to content

Biography · Biography & Culture

Violet Hill Whyte

1897–1980

United States

BIOGRAPHYPortrait not availableExplore the life, work and source references.
Visit the source record ↗

Biography

Violet Hill Whyte (November 18, 1897 – 1980) was a teacher, the first African-American to be appointed an officer of the Baltimore Police Department in Maryland, and a community activist. She was appointed in December 1937 by Commissioner William P. Lawson, and served for 30 years, reaching the rank of lieutenant. In addition, she participated on numerous community boards and commissions, working to improve the lives of women and children especially in Baltimore.

Sources & collection details

Wikipedia contributors — original record ↗

Black heritage reference ↗

Biography text · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source checked 2026-10-13

Continue exploring Series 1

Civil Rights & Public Life →Education & Ideas →Everyday Life & Community →

Explore all Series 1 cards →