Newton Isaac Collins, Sr.

You might know the name Newton Collins as the namesake of Easton Park’s elementary school, but it’s worth diving into the extraordinary story of the man behind the name. Newton Isaac Collins was a former slave who became a successful businessman and landowner who used his purchased land to build homes, churches and schools for his community. Given his life-long love of education, it’s fitting that his name graces the elementary school here at Easton Park, but many people might not realize that Collins actually played an important role in the development of our neighborhood. A deal was made with Collins’ heirs granting an easement across their land for critical utilities, allowing Easton Park to be built.