November 17, 2014 John E. Harmon, Sr., Herman Russell and Maynard Jackson not only created the model for economic empowerment for blacks in their community, but their legacy has been perpetuated by what is occurring in Atlanta today. Herman J. Russell, one of Atlantas most important business figures, known best for his role in starting one of the countrys largest minority-owned companies, passed away Saturday, November 15th, following a brief illness at the age of 83. The Summerhill native owned several businesses throughout his career, starting at age 16 when he purchased a dilapidated home for $125. He most notably founded H.J. Russell & Company, a local construction firm that helped build many of the citys most important structures, in 1953. He also was a key member of the Civil Rights movement and broke down barriers for minority entrepreneurs. As the founder of one of Americas most successful construction and real estate businesses, Mr. Russell shattered countless barriers and created greater opportunities for all, but especially for African-Americans, Mayor Kasim Reed said in a statement. When history catches its breath, Mr. Russells life work will place him among the most significant heroes of the Civil Rights Movement because of his unwavering contributions and commitment to the progress of this city and nation. Few men have done more to make Atlanta a place where people of all races and backgrounds can bring and build their dreams. H.J. Russell & Companys portfolio is massive. It includes public projects such as the Georgia Dome, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Philips Arena, and Turner Field. His company helped erected much of the citys skyline such as Coca-Colas headquarters, 191 Peachtree Tower, Atlanta City Hall, and the Georgia-Pacific building, among others. H.J. Russell & Company also assisted in the construction of the Atlanta Police headquarters, Fulton County Jail, nearly a dozen Atlanta Public Schools buildings, Atlanta History Center, Atlanta Symphony Hall, the Carter Center, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and many other structures. And thats just what his firm did in Atlanta — not to mention what the construction magnate built across the nation. Russell retired from H.J. Russell & Company in 2003, at which point his son, Michael, succeeded him in running the business. Michael Russell continues to run his fathers company, along with his two siblings, Jerome and Donata. “As a son, I’m honored to carry on the family business and community activities my father started with my brother Jerome and sister Donata, current H.J. Russell & Company CEO Michael Russell said in a statement. His life inspires us to continue to strive to help others and be the best we can be.” H.J. Russell & Company is currently involved with the construction of the $1.3 billion Atlanta Falcons stadium development. In addition, his company continues to manage concessions at several American airports, including services at Hartsfield-Jackson. [H.J. Russell] left his mark on our city’s skyline as one of the builders and developers who constructed some of our region’s iconic structures, Fulton County Chairman John Eaves said in a statement. The firm he built continues to shape what this city will look like for decades to come. Before he died, Russell held board seats for the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, Citizens Trust Bank, Georgia Power Company, Wachovia Bank, the Georgia Ports Authority, and other influential organizations. He released his autobiography, Building Atlanta: How I Broke Through Segregation to Launch a Business Empire, last April.
Posted on: Mon, 17 Nov 2014 22:08:33 +0000
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