The Terry Family Legacy: From Roanoke to the World Stage | Clark Historic Site

From One Room to Global Reach
 By: Charlotte A. Clark-Frieson aka "Wilkie Clark's Daughter"
In a small Southern town where opportunities for African American enterprise were often limited, the Terry family built something extraordinary — an enterprise that would grow from humble beginnings into a nationally and internationally recognized manufacturing powerhouse.
In the heart of Roanoke, Alabama—during a time when opportunity for African American enterprise was limited by both custom and law—a remarkable story of vision, discipline, and determination began to unfold.
Less than a mile from what is now Clark Funeral Home, Jessie A. Terry and his wife, Velma Heard Terry, laid the foundation for what would become one of the most successful African American-owned manufacturing companies in the United States.
What began in a modest, one-room operation would grow into a business that reached far beyond the boundaries of Randolph County… and ultimately, far beyond the nation itself.

Humble Beginnings: A Vision Takes Root
On August 1, 1963, as documented in The Roanoke Leader, Terry Manufacturing Company opened with just 25 employees, producing ladies’ blouses.
Operating under modest conditions but guided by a commitment to excellence, the company quickly distinguished itself through quality workmanship and disciplined production. Each garment reflected a standard that would come to define the Terry name—precision, pride, and continuous improvement.
From these humble beginnings, something extraordinary began to take shape.
​A Family Built on Education and Purpose
At the center of this success was not just a business—but a family.
Jessie A. Terry and Velma Heard Terry instilled in their household the values of hard work, education, and unity. Their vision was carried forward by their three sons:
  • Roy D. Terry
  • Rudolph Terry
  • Reverend William Terry
All three attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, and each earned a Master of Business Administration—a remarkable achievement that positioned them to help expand the family enterprise with strategic insight and leadership.
Together, the Terry family combined practical experience with advanced education, creating a powerful model of generational progress and excellence.

Growth, Expansion, and National Recognition
​With strong leadership and a clear vision, Terry Manufacturing grew rapidly.
What began as a small garment operation evolved into a large-scale manufacturing enterprise, providing employment opportunities for numerous individuals in the Roanoke area and beyond. The company became known for its reliability, efficiency, and ability to meet demanding production standards.
In time, Terry Manufacturing secured major government contracts and expanded its reach into national and international markets. The company’s work would include the production of garments on a global scale—reportedly including apparel associated with the Olympic Games.
At its height, the Terry family stood among the ranks of African American multimillionaire business leaders, a rare and significant achievement—particularly for a company rooted in a small Southern town.

Impact on Community and Legacy of Empowerment
Beyond financial success, the Terry family’s impact was deeply felt within the community.
Their business created jobs, opened doors, and demonstrated what was possible for African American families in an era when such opportunities were often denied. They became a source of inspiration—not only in Roanoke, but for all who believed in the power of ownership, education, and perseverance.
Their story stands as a powerful example of economic empowerment, showing that success could be built from the ground up—even under the most challenging circumstances.

Beyond Business:  A Commitment To Civil Rights
While the Terry family achieved remarkable success in business, their contributions extended far beyond economic enterprise.
Members of the Terry family were actively engaged in the Civil Rights Movement in Roanoke and Randolph County— standing alongside local leaders, including Wilkie Clark, whom they regarded as a mentor in civil rights.
They participated in marches, community organizing efforts, and the ongoing struggle for equality, demonstrating that their commitment to progress was not limited to business success, but extended to the advancement of their community as a whole.

A Legacy That Endures
Like many great enterprises, the story of Terry Manufacturing would experience later challenges. Yet, those chapters do not define the legacy—they add depth to it.
What remains undeniable is what the Terry family accomplished:
  • They built.
  • They employed.
  • They led.
  • They inspired.
From a one-room beginning in Roanoke, Alabama, they created a business that reached the world.
And in doing so, they secured their place in history—not only as successful entrepreneurs, but as pioneers of possibility.
Historical Documentation📜 Featured Artifact:
The Roanoke Leader – August 22, 1963
Documenting the early days of Terry Manufacturing Company and its initial workforce.