Franks, James Daniel
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Franks, James Daniel
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Often going by his middle name, J. Daniel Franks worked at Davidson College as a janitor during the mid-20th century and was remembered for his dedication, strong work ethic, and positive relationships with the campus community.
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James Daniel Franks was born on October 3, 1908, in Laurens County, South Carolina, to Cash and Martha Franks. Preferring to go by his middle name, Daniel Franks married Margaret Louise Simolton on July 27, 1937. Together, they raised a son and a daughter in the town of Davidson.
Franks worked in a textile mill before becoming a janitor at Davidson College during the Jim Crow era. Franks was known his dedication, clean work record, and good humor. His commitment to education and belief in the college as a place for cultivating responsibility and independence resonated deeply with students and the campus community. In 1955, Franks was even featured in the Tribute to a Janitor series in the Davidsonian article where students highlighted his four years of dedicated service in the lower halls of West as well as his character and contributions. Those who knew him attested to his positive relationships with students and faculty and admired his dedication to the college.
Daniel Franks passed away on June 23, 1985, and was laid to rest at the Christian Aid Society Cemetery on the Davidson College campus.
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October 3, 1908
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June 23, 1985
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1940 Federal Census, Ancestry.com
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1950 Federal Census, Ancestry.com
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Marriage Certificate of Daniel James Franks and Margaret Franks on July 24th, 1937,” in North Carolina, U.S. Marriage Records, 1741-2011, Ancestry.com.
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Jim Marshall, “Tribute To A Janitor,” The Davidsonian, December 9, 1955, 4.
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“Mrs. J. Franks,” The Charlotte News, November 6, 1954.
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“Mr. Daniel Franks,” The Charlotte News, June 26, 1985.
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