Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

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African American Album Volume 2

1970s - National Events

This decade ushers in the conclusion of the emotionally-charged school desegregation plan in Charlotte. Watch Judge McMillan discuss the impact desegregation has had on the Charlotte community and how the Chambers family was affected by the Swann case.

Date of Event:

The Rosenwald Schools

From 1917 to 1932, Jewish philanthropist Julius Rosenwald donated millions of dollars to build schools for black children throughout the rural South. He gave half the money needed and required that the black and white community work to raise the other half. Rosenwald, president of Sears, Roebuck and Co., helped build more than 5,000 schools in 15 states. There were 813 of the schools in North Carolina. Twenty-six were in Mecklenburg County.

1969 - Vietnam War Protest at Johnson C. Smith University

October 16, 1969 - Vietnam War protest at Johnson C. Smith. Students at Johnson C. Smith University protest against the Vietnam War. Photo caption: During the war, a larger percentage of African Americans serve in combat than are in the general population.

Date of Event:
October 16, 1969

Sterling School

Sterling School began as Pineville Colored School and served students in southern Mecklenburg County. By 1958, the name had been changed to Sterling School. The school still operates today as Sterling Elementary School.

1969 - Conerned Parents Association

May 1969 - The Concerned Parents Association responds to the integration ruling.

  • The Concerned Parents Association, an all-white group, is formed in response to Judge McMillan’s order. 
  • More than twenty thousand parents sign petitions against the judge. 
  • Anti-busing protester - sign reads: "Congressman Jonas! Start Impeachment Proceedings against James B. McMillan."
Date of Event:
May, 1969

Plato Price School

Plato Price School served children and adolescents in the western part of Mecklenburg County. It housed students from first grade to graduation. The school was closed as part of the school system’s integration plan, and the building was eventually torn down.

1960s - National Events

During this turbulent decade, Charlotte's African Americans are active participants in the battle for civil rights. Urban renewal begins in earnest with the demolition of Charlotte's Ward neighborhoods. Learn about the push for desegregation in Charlotte's hotels and restaurants, as well as other public facilities. The enforcement of court-ordered school desegregation and the impact of the Swann case are predominant news.

 

Date of Event:

1969 - Judge McMillan Orders School Board to Eliminate Segregated Schools

April 23, 1969 - Judge McMillan orders the Charlotte school board to eliminate segregated schools.

Date of Event:
April 23, 1969