Back in the 1960’s, for black folks, getting insurance was kind of like getting the right to vote — the system was set up to prevent it from happening, and it took some brave pioneers to change that.
Fred L. Davis was that pioneer, launching the Fred L. Davis Insurance Agency in 1967, on Airways Boulevard in Orange Mound. Less than a decade later, Eldridge “Pete” Mitchell would start his own agency in 1975. Both men would remain icons in Memphis until their deaths — Davis passed in 2019, and Mitchell died in 2021.
The recent acquisition of the Fred L. Davis Agency by Pete Mitchell and Associates signifies more than just a business deal; it represents the convergence of two legacies built on service, integrity, and a deep commitment to Memphis.
Fred L. Davis, a true trailblazer, founded his agency in 1967, a time of immense social change and challenge in America. He shattered barriers as the first African American policy writing agent in six states and the first Black member of the Independent Insurance Agents of America. Davis’ influence extended far beyond insurance; he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the sanitation workers’ strike, embodying the spirit of activism and social justice that defined the era.
Meanwhile, Eldridge ‘Pete’ Mitchell established his agency in 1975, rooted in the values of local service and independent representation. Over the years, Pete Mitchell and Associates grew into a trusted name, providing comprehensive insurance solutions to individuals, families, and businesses across Memphis and beyond.
The acquisition of the Fred L. Davis Agency by Pete Mitchell and Associates brings together these two remarkable stories, weaving a tapestry of shared values and a commitment to serving the Memphis community. It is a testament to the enduring power of legacy and the potential for growth and collaboration.
To gain a deeper understanding of this historic moment, we sat down with George Hilliard, CEO of Pete Mitchell and Associates. In this exclusive interview, Mr. Hilliard shares his insights on the acquisition, the legacies of Fred Davis and Pete Mitchell, and the future of the combined agencies.
Lee Eric Smith: What motivated Pete Mitchell and Associates to acquire the Fred L. Davis Insurance Agency?
George Hilliard: The acquisition was primarily motivated by the brand and the employees. Fred L. Davis had built a well-known and respected brand over the years, with a strong presence in the community.
The other thing is the people. Mr. Davis had some really knowledgeable people at his agency, with more than 30 years of experience. You just don’t find that anymore in the insurance field. The fact that we already represented many of the same companies made it a natural fit.
Smith: How did Fred L. Davis and Pete Mitchell navigate the challenges of being Black entrepreneurs in the insurance industry during their early years?
Hilliard: Both of them struggled when they started these agencies. They started these businesses when black people just couldn’t get agencies. They had to go to white people just to be able to even get a license. And even once they got their license, (many major insurance carriers) would not allow them to write business for them. It was a tough time.
Smith: People don’t understand the difference between an independent agent and State Farm or Allstate agent.
Hillard: We are actually entrepreneurs. We are not company people. (Davis and Mitchell) actually started these businesses from scratch. And the product that you sell is insurance. But back then, many companies wouldn’t allow black agents to write for them. The history on that goes back into years and years of discrimination, challenges, struggles. The Hartford Insurance Company was the only one at the time would underwrite for Mr. Davis and Mr. Mitchell.
Smith: You mentioned that Fred L. Davis had a ‘brand?’ How would you describe that brand?
Hilliard: I look at longevity. I look at relationships. Everybody knows Fred Davis because he was very community oriented. He was really out in the community, he did a lot of great things in the community and we want to carry on in that tradition. Eventually, it will all be Pete Mitchell and Associates, but we will always acknowledge Fred L. Davis and his agency. We still want his legacy to be a part of our legacy.
Smith: In your view, how does insurance fit into the broader conversation about building wealth, especially within the Black community?
Hilliard: Insurance is critical for wealth building. If you own anything of value, you need to protect it. This isn’t just about physical assets—it’s also about liability protection. In our community, there’s often a gap when it comes to life insurance and passing on wealth to the next generation. Many times, we don’t insure our lives as we should, and that’s a missed opportunity to build and preserve wealth. Insurance ensures that your assets are protected, and that’s a vital part of moving from poverty to wealth.
For some small business owners, you can’t even bid on certain jobs or contracts if you don’t have liability insurance in place. This insurance doesn’t just protect your business from lawsuits; it also opens doors for more work. Without it, you’re limited in the opportunities you can pursue. It’s not just about protecting what you have; it’s about enabling you to get more.
Smith: And that’s where a local independent agent like Pete Mitchell and Associates comes in.
George Hilliard: The primary advantage of working with us is that we’re an independent agency, meaning we have the flexibility to represent multiple insurance companies. This allows us to find the best policies for our clients, whether they have a marginal driving record or need high-end coverage. We serve everyone—from the average person in the community to executives at major corporations. Unlike captive agencies that are limited to one company’s products, we can shop around to find the best fit for each client’s needs.
