File:George Samuel (Sammy) Streams.jpg

Summary

George Samuel "Sammy" Streams

George Samuel Streams was born on August 14, 1893 in the old School House in Knoxville (later known as Compher's Crossroads Inn). His father worked on the Hillary farm in Pertsville. His grandmother was a slave owned by Joseph Waltman, an early landowner that owned most of what is now Brunswick. The Streams' moved to I Street around 1902.

Sammy, as he was known within the community, worked for the B&O Railroad Company for 49 years. We worked at the transfer shed, storing freight in the storeroom. He was a foreman and later a clerk until retirement in 1960. Additionally, Sammy worked in town at Kaplon's Department Store and cooked at Press Orrison's lunchroom and often ran the business there. Mr. Streams served his country during World War One.

Sammy Streams helped to organize and build the Gospel Temple Apolistic Faith Church on J Street. Before building the church, services were held at the Stream home. Mr. Stream contributed $500 towards the building of the church and placed credit in his name to help see the church built. The church was dedicated in 1933 and Sammy was an assistant pastor there for many years.

Sam Streams was a binding force between the races and brought them together in a peaceful way. Sam was a leader for justice and civil rights for his community. He emphasized politics was a means of preserving human dignity and human rights. Sam was instrumental is securing street lights for his area of town and worked closely with Mayor Virts to complete the project. He worked with Mr. Mills (Superintendent) to get water service to his neighborhood. Streams and others hand dug ditches for the pipe to be installed. Mr. Streams, who left school in third grade to support his family, often told the local youth to get good grades and then command a good job.

George Samuel Streams was designated a Brunswick Distinguished Citizen in 1980. He died on April 8, 1982. He is recognized as a Brunswick leader who attained numerous civil rights achievements.