Alexandria African American Hall of FameMeet our Founder/Robert “Old Folks” Dawkins
Robert “Old Folks” Dawkins
Born on November 9, 1940, to Curtis and Mattie Dawkins, Robert “Old Folks” Dawkins grew up in Alexandria, attending segregated schools, including his beloved Parker-Gray High School. He earned the nickname “Old Folks” for being wise beyond his years.
As an adult, Dawkins was employed by the City of Alexandria as the Director of Centers for the department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. He later retired after many years working for the federal Government. Dawkins became a pillar of the community, preferring to work in the shadows while tirelessly recognizing the trailblazers who often went unheralded. He made significant contributions to African American history in Alexandria, particularly through conceptualizing and founding the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame in June 2013, housed at the Charles Houston Recreation Center. This institution has been crucial in making African American history accessible to the City, filling a gap left by the scarcity of visible landmarks, structures, or documentation reflecting Alexandria’s African American legacy.
One of Dawkins’ most significant achievements was preserving the legacy of the legendary Parker-Gray School. “He did so much to honor others and never sought recognition for himself,” said his brother, the Hon. Nolan Dawkins. “That was one of the core principles of his life. He was commanding yet remarkably humble at the same time.”
In founding the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame, Dawkins wrote, “Alexandria is a community full of significant African American history. Sometimes extraordinary people, often from humble beginnings, have endured decades of frustrations, have been embedded with unimaginable psychological scars, and in the end have not been adequately recognized for their accomplishments and contributions to local and national history. Their history is far greater than one can imagine.”
Beyond the Hall of Fame, Dawkins also founded the Hoop Academy. This initiative demonstrated his belief in the power of sports to inspire and mentor the next generation. Through this foundation, he not only taught basketball skills but also instilled values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance that extended far beyond the court.
On November 16, 2023, Alexandria lost one of its most iconic citizens. Dawkins is survived by his wife Romaine, children Adrian and Curtis, brothers Nolan and Arthur, sister Betsy, and grandchildren Antoine, Jordan, James, and Brian. Although Julian Dawkins, one of his cherished grandchildren, departed this world before him, his memory will forever live on. Their shared bonds of family and community service formed the backbone of a legacy that will endure.
Robert Dawkins Tribute Video
