Jake and Mary Jacobs celebrated 70 years of marriage last year, overcoming significant challenges to reach this remarkable milestone.
In 1940s Britain, Mary, a white woman, met Jake, a black man, who was one of the few black people living in the area at the time. Despite the societal hurdles and her father’s strong disapproval, Mary was determined to be with Jake.
Mary and Jake first met at a technical school where she was studying typing and shorthand, and he was training in the Air Force. After their initial meeting, they began corresponding, and Jake later moved to the UK for better job opportunities.
At 19, Mary accepted Jake’s proposal, but her family disowned her. They married in a registrar office in 1948, with no family present.
Their early years were filled with hardship, as they struggled with financial instability, racism, and a lack of support. They also faced personal heartbreak when their first child was stillborn.
Over time, however, their situation improved, with Mary securing a teaching job and Jake working for the Post Office.
Despite the struggles, including Mary’s father never fully accepting Jake, the couple’s love endured. Now in their 80s and 90s, they continue to cherish their 70 years together.
