Dr. Robert Walter Johnson House and Tennis Court

The Dr. Robert Walter Johnson House is a two-story American Foursquare residence with a green clay tennis court on the property that served as a training venue. The court was renovated in the 2010s to maintain its condition as a functional athletic facility.

The facility was established in the 1930s by Dr. Robert Walter Johnson, the first African American physician at Lynchburg General Hospital. This location became instrumental in developing Black tennis careers during an era of racial segregation.

The house served as a welcoming refuge for African American performers and athletes during segregation, offering lodging when other places turned them away. Visitors like Duke Ellington found hospitality here at a time when many establishments refused to accommodate them.

The site is easy to reach by car and located in a residential neighborhood, so it is best to confirm visiting hours before arriving. The location is compact, focusing on just the house and court on a single property.

From this modest property came the first Black Wimbledon champions, an achievement particularly remarkable during the era of segregation. The court proved that African American athletes could compete and win at the international level when given opportunity and coaching.

Location: Virginia

GPS coordinates: 37.41190,-79.15060

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:41