Pinkett Business

In 1932, in the midst of the the Great Depression, Flaxie’s father founded John R. Pinkett Inc. He intended to use the knowledge and experience he gained working for others to build his own insurance firm. Pinkett established his business at 1302 New Jersey Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. in a one room basement. The enterprise prospered and eventually grew to include real estate and property management.

Combining altruism with entrepreneurship, the Pinkett firm provided ready access to open housing for hundreds of families in the District of Columbia. Additionally, the booming business provided valuable training and experience to African-Americans seeking an entry into the corporate world. Under the leadership of Flaxie Pinkett, the company became the first insurance and real estate firm in Washington, D.C. to be fully owned and operated by an African-American woman.