Beverly Randolph Snow’s life story is a testament to the resilience and determination of a man born into slavery who overcame immense challenges to become a successful entrepreneur and restaurateur. Born in Lynchburg, Virginia around 1799 on the estate of Captain William Norvell, Snow was of mixed parentage, often referred to as a mulatto in various newspapers of the time. Despite the circumstances of his birth, Snow’s journey is one of remarkable achievement and unwavering perseverance.
The provisions of William Norvell’s last will dictated that Snow was to be given to his daughter Susannah Norvell Warwick, with the stipulation that he be freed at the age of 30. It was under this arrangement that Snow began his path to freedom and entrepreneurship. The Norvell family allowed Snow to operate a small oyster house on Lynch Street in Lynchburg, where he was permitted to retain a portion of the profits. It was during this time that Snow married a young free woman named Julia, marking the beginning of a partnership that would endure the trials and triumphs that lay ahead.
In November of 1829, Snow was finally freed, and he and Julia made the decision to leave Virginia, a state with stringent restrictions on free blacks, and relocate to Washington, D.C. It was in the nation’s capital that Snow’s entrepreneurial spirit truly flourished. Setting himself apart from most free blacks of his time, Snow was educated, wealthy, and successful, earning a reputation that some described as “perhaps even a bit snobbish.” His success was a testament to the strength and resilience of Washington’s free black population.
In Washington, D.C., Snow established a popular oyster restaurant known as the Epicurean Eating House, located at the corner of 6th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. However, his success also made him the target of white resentment and envy. The infamous Snow Riot of 1835 stands as a stark reminder of the challenges Snow faced as a black entrepreneur in a racially charged society. Large mobs of white mechanics, incensed by rumors of Snow insulting their wives and resenting his business success, rampaged through the District, seeking to destroy the property of and terrorize free blacks. The riot culminated in an attack on Snow’s restaurant, where the mob not only vandalized the establishment but also consumed all the whiskey and champagne within.
Following the harrowing events of the Snow Riot, Snow, and Julia managed to escape from the rioters and sought refuge in Toronto, Canada. Undeterred by adversity, Snow once again embarked on a path to entrepreneurship in his new home. His first venture in Toronto was a coffee shop at the corner of Church and Colburn Street, which proved to be successful. Subsequently, he opened the Epicurean Recess and, in 1848, the Phoenix Saloon, followed by the Exchange Saloon in 1856.
Tragically, Beverly Randolph Snow’s remarkable journey came to an end when he passed away in Toronto on October 21, 1856. His legacy, however, lives on as a testament to the indomitable spirit of an individual who defied the constraints of his time to achieve success and leave an enduring impact on the history of entrepreneurship and resilience.
In conclusion, Beverly Randolph Snow’s life story serves as an inspiration—a testament to the power of determination, entrepreneurship, and resilience in the face of adversity. His journey from slavery to successful entrepreneurship stands as a reminder of the enduring human spirit and the ability to overcome even the most daunting challenges. Beverly Randolph Snow’s legacy continues to inspire generations with its message of perseverance and triumph in the face of adversity.