We are proud to recognize Delores Aldailer Barham-Owes-Richter-Smith, a woman whose determination, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit helped break barriers in Norfolk, Virginia.
Daughter of George Bingham Barham and Christine Barnes Barham.
Granddaughter of Bingham Barham—George Preston Brett and Mary Eliza Barham; Christine Barnes—Lewis D. Barnes and Elizabeth J. Cotton.
Great-grandparents were Bingham Barham—Andew Barham and Ann Kindred; Christine Barnes Barham —John Cotton and Martha Cotton.
Siblings: Mae Etta Barham Freeman (Guy Freeman), Joe Bingham Barham (Eunice Hill), Blanche Barham Lanier (Earlie Lanier), Rachel Barham Davis (Mathew Davis), Stella Christine Barham Mason (Eddie T. Mason), Mavis Barham Ricks (Walter Lee Ricks).
Education: Public Schools of Como, NC and Southampton County, VA
Delores built her career as a skilled seamstress, but her story is also one of quiet courage and determination.
In the early years of her career, she worked in Norfolk doing clothing alterations in a men’s clothing shop. One day, after years on the job, her employers told her she had altered 200 pairs of pants in a single day and suggested she might be able to do even more.
That moment became a turning point.
Delores later recalled thinking that if she was capable of doing that much work for someone else, she could do it for herself. She made up her mind that she would open her own shop.
In 1962, Delores opened Owes Custom Dressmaking, Alterations and Fabrics at 230 W. Bute Street in Norfolk. At the time, there were no other Black-owned businesses in downtown Norfolk, and very few women operating businesses in that area.
Even securing a storefront was difficult. When she attempted to rent a vacant space, she was initially told she could not lease it because she was Black. Undeterred, she spoke directly with the building owner and negotiated an agreement that allowed her to move forward.
With determination and persistence, she opened her shop anyway.
Word spread quickly about the stylish and talented seamstress who had opened a business downtown. Customers followed her as she relocated over the years, and many remained loyal to her work decades later.
Delores was known for her gentle manner, strong work ethic, and skillful craftsmanship. In addition to running her business, she organized fashion shows featuring her own designs that drew large crowds each year.
She also volunteered her time helping with students in Norfolk Public Schools and became a charter member of the Norfolk Metropolitan Club, an organization supporting Black businesswomen.
Her leadership and impact did not go unnoticed. She was honored by the organization as Business Woman of the Year.
Looking back, Delores once reflected on her journey and the recognition that came with it. Although others viewed her as a civil rights pioneer for opening a business during a time of segregation, she explained that her motivation was simple:
She just wanted the opportunity to work for herself and do what she loved.
Her decision to do exactly that helped pave the way for others.
During Women’s History Month, we proudly celebrate Delores Aldailer Barham-Owes-Richter-Smith for her courage, determination, and the legacy she leaves for future generations of the Barnes-Blow family.
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It is good for us as a family to acknowledge and remember Deloris and celebrate her achievements during Women History Month.