1946

Mamon Powers, Sr. (1921-2001) moved from Mississippi to Gary, Indiana following World War II. Part of the wave of African-Americans moving north for economic opportunity, he was Indiana’s first Black apprentice in the state.

Mamon begins his career working for Andrew Means, a trailblazing African-American real estate developer. Means led the way in constructing quality housing for the area’s growing Black middle class, leaving an indelible mark on its landscape and architectural legacy. For the next few years, Mamon perfects his craft and learns key business principles.