Race relations

Abstract Harry Golden (1902-1981) was a well-known journalist, founder of the Carolina Israelite, best-selling author, and civil rights advocate for the oppressed. After a rocky career as a stockbroker, Golden moved to Charlotte in 1941 to pursue a career in journalism. This collection contains materials relating to his professional career, to include original manuscripts, photostats, research, correspondence, essays and articles on various subjects, and audio/visual materials. Materials are in good...

Abstract North Carolina’s oldest public housing development, Piedmont Courts, was located on the corner of Seigle Avenue and 10th Street in Charlotte. Slated as affordable housing for lower income whites, the first tenants moved in during 1940. As desegregation spread during the 1960s, black citizens were able to move into Piedmont Courts as well. By the 1980s, Piedmont Courts had become dilapidated, and criminal problems and drugs were plaguing the community. The city received millions of dollars to...

Abstract James Saxon Smith (1909-1982) served as the mayor of Charlotte from 1957-1961. His term coincided with the Charlotte sit-ins that began on February 12, 1960. Mayor Smith is credited with Charlotte’s official approach to integrating public areas in the city by establishing the “Mayor’s Friendly Relationship Committee” (MFRC) in response to sit-ins at various lunch counters in Uptown Charlotte’s department, variety, and drugstores. Smith appointed Dr. John R. Cunningham to chair the committee....

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Ralph Johnson (1904-2001) was a prominent Black businessman in Davidson, North Carolina. He owned and operated Johnson's Barber Shop on Davidson's Main Street from 1921-1971, where he served many Davidson College students, community leaders, and Secretary of State Dean Rusk. This collection contains materials relating to his life and career, mostly consisting of photographs. Other items include biographical information as well as published articles. Materials are dated c1921-c1971.