While romance may seem lost in the modern age, this was not the case in the early 20th century, when love was deemed sacred, beautiful, and peaceful. This era was of handwritten letters, heartfelt declarations, and exchanging roses with promises of forever love. Such timeless romances weren’t just reserved for the silver screen—they existed in real life, too.
Like Ned and Nell’s love story in Edwin Bancroft Henderson’s captivating and engaging autobiography, The Grandfather of Black Basketball: The Life and Times of Dr. E. B. Henderson. Known for his pioneering work in bringing Black athletes into mainstream sports, especially basketball, Henderson’s legacy goes far beyond the court. Amid his groundbreaking achievements, he cherished another part of his life just as dearly: his love for his wife, Mary Ellen.
In Dr. E. B. Henderson’s autobiography, the author has dedicated a whole chapter to Ned and Nell’s adorable love story. The couple’s love radiates from the letters they exchanged throughout their lives and the pet names they gave each other: Ned and Nell.
Given his significant role in African-American history, Dr. E.B. Henderson was a man of intellectual acumen who led an earnest life, which Nell’s softness and tenderness complimented. During his student days, girls were taboo, and he came from a working-class family; he was primarily focused on achieving academic excellence.
But fate had other plans for this man, so he met a girl during recess. Although it was purely for academic purposes, he was invited to another meeting, so their story began. At that time, relationships and marriages were very different and challenging; families chose another family that matched their class and social status to find their life partners and spouses.
Nell and Mary Ellen belonged to the social elites of Washington; both of her parents were educated, socially and politically involved African Americans. They saw the potential in E.B. and so gave him their blessings to court their beloved daughter.
Ned and Nell’s relationship continued for six years of courtship, followed by 66 years of blessed marriage. But it was not a smooth ride; they also faced many challenges. E.B., deeply in love with Nell, understood that providing her with the life she was accustomed to required more than his modest salary. Though society’s rules dictated that Nell would have to give up her teaching career upon marriage, E.B.’s heart would not allow him to let their love suffer.
Ned tirelessly pursued every opportunity, from enrolling in medical school to learning chiropractic care and steadily climbing the ranks in his teaching career. His love and devotion to Nell and their shared efforts to save for a future together helped them fulfill their dreams. As their savings grew and his salary doubled, they were ecstatic to see that love overcame their limitations.
In 1910, they made plans to unite their hearts and lives through marriage, ready to embrace a future where their love would blossom into the life they had always wanted.
Ned and Nell’s story is a beautiful reminder that love is not a sacrifice for ambition but rather the driving force that fuels it. Learn more about their inspirational story in Edwin Bancroft Henderson’s magnum opus biography, The Grandfather of Black Basketball: The Life and Times of Dr. E. B. Henderson. Get your copy now.
