Article

VINCE LEGGETT (1953-2024)

An African American man with blue pants, jacket, and hat sits on a bench.
The Admiral relaxes on a bench near the Chesapeake Bay.

The Leggett's

The Chesapeake region has always been a tapestry of natural wonders and cultural heritage, and no one understood this better than Vince Leggett. Known as “The Admiral” of the Chesapeake, Vince devoted his life to preserving and sharing the African American history and culture of the Bay, ensuring that the stories of resilience, joy, and connection lived on across generations. His work through the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation and countless other initiatives transformed the Bay into more than a geographic landmark—it became a living archive of identity and community.

As we grieve Vince’s passing, we’ve tried to capture his legacy through the remembrances and voices of those who knew him, were mentored by him, worked alongside him, and were inspired by his mission. Read through the following heartfelt reflections from Vince’s "Crew” and Vince’s tribe,” each offering a special glimpse into the life and impact of this remarkable man.

A Champion of the Chesapeake

Vincent Omar Leggett, founder of the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation, dedicated his life to documenting and celebrating the contributions of African Americans in the maritime history of the Chesapeake Watershed. His commitment to preserving history, promoting equity, and fostering environmental stewardship earned him the title “Admiral of the Chesapeake,” bestowed by Maryland’s governor.

Early Life and Education
Born on June 26, 1953, in Baltimore, Maryland, to labor union representative Charlie Leggett and educator Willie Mae Leggett, Vincent’s upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and love for the outdoors. He earned a bachelor’s degree in urban planning and Community Development from Morgan State University in 1975, followed by a master’s in public administration from Central Michigan University in 1999.

Career Highlights
Leggett’s professional journey began in education, serving as an education planner for Baltimore City Public Schools and later as Supervisor of Educational Planning for Anne Arundel County Public Schools. He was appointed to the Anne Arundel County Board of Education, where he served as vice president and president from 1988 to 1993.In 1990, Leggett founded The Leggett Group USA, a consulting firm specializing in government relations, public affairs, and advocacy. As a lobbyist, he championed issues such as educational equity, clean energy, and cultural preservation.

Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation
Leggett launched the Blacks of the Chesapeake Project in 1984 to highlight African American contributions to maritime history and promote environmental stewardship. This initiative became the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation in 1999, recognized as a Local Legacy Project by the Library of Congress. Through programs like “Exploring the Chesapeake Bay Through Ebony Eyes,” Leggett introduced K-12 and college students to cultural and environmental heritage.

Books and Community Impact
Leggett authored Blacks of the Chesapeake: An Integral Part of Maritime History (1997) and The Chesapeake Bay Through Ebony Eyes (1999), further cementing his role as a storyteller of African American maritime history. He also co-founded the Chesapeake Ecology Center, which focuses on urban conservation and environmental education.

Legacy and Recognition
A tireless advocate for inclusion, Leggett worked to expand minority representation in environmental fields through partnerships with institutions like Hampton University and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. He received numerous accolades, including induction into the Maritime Hall of Fame and serving as Chaplain for the Annapolis Fire Department.

Leggett passed away on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at the age of 71. Despite the challenges of reaching underserved communities, his life’s work serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations, ensuring that the Chesapeake Watershed’s history and ecology reflect the diversity and resilience of its people.

Not the Conclusion: A Legacy That Lives On

The Chesapeake Bay will forever carry Vince Leggett’s spirit. His unwavering dedication to storytelling and stewardship ensured that its waters echo with the voices of those who came before and its shores remain places of connection, reflection, and joy. Vince taught us that history is not only what we preserve but what we pass on—and in that, he remains an eternal part of the Bay’s story. As we reflect on his remarkable life, let us continue his mission to protect, honor, and celebrate the legacy he worked so tirelessly to build.

Fair winds, Vince, until we meet again on the next tide.

Share Your Vince Story:

We know there are many more members of Vince’s Crew out there and we want to connect and capture more stories to remember Vince. Send short stories (up to one page) and pictures to chesapeake_info@nps.gov.

Email us here.

Part of a series of articles titled The Vince Leggett Legacy.

Chesapeake Bay

Last updated: December 19, 2024