Father of E. E. Ward Owner Honored at King Arts Complex Gala

At the 28^th anniversary gala of the King Arts Complex, all of the African American judges of Columbus, Ohio, past and present, were celebrated. Among those honored was William H. Brooks, Sr., father of E. E. Ward Moving & Storage Co. owner, Brian Brooks.

Judge Brooks was the first African American judge to serve on the Franklin County Municipal Court in 1962. He also served as Director of Public Utilities of Columbus, Deputy Franklin County Auditor, Assistant Ohio Attorney General and Chairman of the Columbus Civil Service Commission. Judge Brooks was also President of the Ohio Conference and Columbus Branch of the NAACP.

Judge Brooks was a strong proponent of the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. He also successfully argued the case that integrated Columbus movie theaters. Brooks was a dedicated professional and family member. With his wife Mary Adams Brooks, he had two sons, William H. Brooks, II and Brian Brooks. He was a devoted Buckeye fan.

As one of the oldest minority-owned businesses in the nation, E. E. Ward celebrates diversity and the work others have done to promote social equality. We are proud to be connected to such a rich legacy.

E. E. Ward is a bronze sponsor of the King Arts Complex and Brian Brooks serves on the complex’s Board of Directors.