Hannah E. Adams, who was born August 19, 1904 in Fairfax County, turned 100 years old recently. Her family and friends held a celebration Aug. 7 at Bethlehem Baptist Church, where Adams — known as "Ms. Hannah" — has been a member for 85 years.
Adams grew up on a farm and remembers regularly traveling three hours in a horse-drawn buggy to the City of Alexandria to sell produce.
As an adult, Adams became a private duty nurse at Glendale Hospital in Glendale, Md., later becoming the first African-American to work for the Visiting Nurse's Association in Alexandria.
During the 1950s and 60s, Adams worked for the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association. The regents and vice regents of the association have ordered the planting of a crepe myrtle tree at Mount Vernon in honor of her birthday.
Adams was also very active in her church, and is the only remaining charter member of the Northern Virginia Baptist Association's Women's Convention. She also worked with the Fairfax Central Baptist Sunday School Union, and was named a worthy matron by the Pride of Fairfax, Order of the Eastern Star.
She has also worked with the William H. Randall Civic Association.
In honor of her birthday, Alexandria Mayor William Euille issued a proclamation from the city. She also received greetings from President George W. Bush, Gov. Mark R. Warner, Congressman Jim Moran and Sen. John Warner.
Adams was predeceased by her husband, Clarence, who died in 1981, and one son, Eddie. She has one granddaughter, one great-granddaughter, two godsons and many other relatives and dedicated friends.
Birthday greetings can be sent to her at 7017 Jube Court, Alexandria, VA 22307.