Myra D. Hemmings
Actor
About Myra D. Hemmings
Myra Lillian Davis Hemmings was a pioneering figure in African American history, recognized as a primary founder and the first president of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority at Howard University in 1913. Born in Gonzales, Texas, she dedicated over fifty years of her life to education, primarily teaching English and drama at Phyllis Wheatley High School in San Antonio. Beyond her academic career, Hemmings was a significant contributor to the 'race film' era of the 1940s, collaborating extensively with filmmaker Spencer Williams. She is most remembered for her powerful performance as the martyr Sister Caroline in the religious drama 'Go Down Death' (1944), a film she also helped co-produce and co-direct. Her work in cinema was an extension of her lifelong commitment to the dramatic arts, which included founding the San Antonio Negro Little Theater and the Phyllis Wheatley Dramatic Guild Players. Throughout her life, she balanced her roles as an educator, civil rights activist, and artist, leaving an indelible mark on both the social and cultural landscape of the United States.
The Craft
On Screen
Hemmings was known for a dignified and oratorical acting style, rooted in her extensive background as a speech teacher and stage director. Her performances in race films were characterized by a maternal gravitas and moral authority, often portraying 'pillar of the community' figures. She utilized clear diction and expressive gestures typical of the theatrical traditions of the early 20th century, which translated well to the religious and moralistic themes of Spencer Williams' films.
Milestones
- Co-founded Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. at Howard University in 1913
- Served as the first president of the Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta
- Participated in the historic Woman Suffrage Procession in Washington, D.C. (1913)
- Starred in and co-produced the classic race film 'Go Down Death' (1944)
- Founded the San Antonio Negro Little Theater and the Dramatic Theatre Guild
- Taught English and Drama in San Antonio public schools for 51 years
- Earned a Master of Arts in Speech from Northwestern University in 1947
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Honored at 'Delta Day' at HemisFair (1968)
- Posthumous recognition by the U.S. Congress for her role as a founder of Delta Sigma Theta (2013)
- Meritorious Work in Dramatic Arts Award from the Exclusive Matron's Club (1953)
Special Recognition
- The Myra Davis Hemmings Memorial Theatre Guild (named in her honor)
- The Myra Davis Hemmings Resource Center in San Antonio
- First female trustee of the Second Baptist Church of San Antonio
- Resolution by the Texas State Legislature (2021) recognizing her contributions
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Myra D. Hemmings' impact on cinema is inextricably linked to her role as a leader in the African American community. By participating in 'race films'—movies produced specifically for Black audiences during the era of segregation—she helped provide representation that countered the stereotypical depictions found in mainstream Hollywood. Her involvement as a co-producer and co-director was particularly significant, as it demonstrated Black female agency in the technical and business aspects of filmmaking during the 1940s. Culturally, her founding of Delta Sigma Theta created a lasting institution for Black women's empowerment and public service that continues to influence American society today.
Lasting Legacy
Her legacy is preserved through the continued work of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, which has grown into a global organization. In the realm of film history, she is remembered as a key figure in the career of Spencer Williams and a vital contributor to the preservation of Black religious and social narratives on screen. The renaming of her theater guild to the Myra Davis Hemmings Memorial Theatre Guild ensures her name remains synonymous with the arts in San Antonio.
Who They Inspired
She influenced generations of Black actors and educators in Texas, fostering a love for Shakespeare and classical drama in a segregated school system. Her transition from educator to film actress served as a model for using various media to uplift and educate the Black community.
Off Screen
Myra was the daughter of Henry Davis and Susan Dement. In 1922, she married John Wilbur Hemmings, a former Broadway actor who shared her passion for the arts. The couple were prominent leaders in San Antonio's East Side community, where they were affectionately known as 'Moms' and 'Pops' by the many students and young actors they mentored. They remained married until his death in 1958.
Education
Howard University (BA, 1913); Northwestern University (MA in Speech, 1947)
Family
- John Wilbur Hemmings (1922-1958)
Did You Know?
- She was the president of Alpha Kappa Alpha before leading the reorganization that created Delta Sigma Theta.
- She marched in the 1913 Suffrage Parade while still a senior at Howard University.
- Her husband, John Hemmings, was a former Broadway actor before they moved to San Antonio.
- She taught for a total of 51 years in the San Antonio school system.
- The film 'Go Down Death' was based on a poem by James Weldon Johnson.
- She was the first woman to serve as a trustee for the Second Baptist Church in San Antonio.
- She received her Master's degree at the age of 52 from Northwestern University.
In Their Own Words
We must be brave and strong. (Context: Dialogue as Sister Caroline in 'Go Down Death')
God works in mysterious ways... and in his own good time he'll bring the killer to justice. (Context: From her performance in 'Go Down Death')
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Myra D. Hemmings?
Myra D. Hemmings was an American actress, educator, and a primary founder of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. She is best known for her leadership in the Black community and her roles in 1940s race films.
What films is Myra D. Hemmings best known for?
She is most famous for starring in 'Go Down Death' (1944), 'Marching On!' (1943), and 'The Girl in Room 20' (1946).
When was Myra D. Hemmings born and when did she die?
She was born on August 30, 1895, in Gonzales, Texas, and passed away on December 8, 1968, in San Antonio, Texas.
What was Myra D. Hemmings' role in the founding of Delta Sigma Theta?
She was one of the 22 founders and served as the first president of the Alpha Chapter at Howard University in 1913.
What was Myra D. Hemmings' acting style?
Her style was characterized by theatrical dignity and clear oration, reflecting her professional background as a drama and speech teacher.
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Films
1 film
