Chew C. Sawyer 1918-1973

Chew C. Sawyer was a mid-twentieth century African-American entrepreneur. He founded Sawyer Realty Company, which later became Cornette Realty; Arnette Construction Company; Future Insurance Agency; and Sawyer Rental Agency. In 1956, Sawyer founded and was the first president of Mutual Federal Savings and Loan, the first African-American savings and loan in Memphis. Sawyer built and financed many homes, including his home on the historic Parkway system.