SEGMENT: TOWNS & NON-FARM WORK
Alice Martin>UIS Collection K-M>UIS Collection K-M, Segment 11
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- TOWNS
- Mrs. Martin believes there are more blacks in Springfield now than in past. Most blacks were employed, worked in hotels, stores, & few in mines. Were not many black farmers. Mentions Nathan Smith, a black man, owned a lot of property. Nathan Smith was one of early pioneers in area. Most rich folks (merchants) want Springfield to stay like it was & did not want industry to be established. White merchants were not "segregated" (racist?) in Springfield. Discusses Springfield's competition with Peoria which had more industry & commerce. Notes growth of Springfield.
- NON-FARM WORK
- Gives names of several black doctors & lawyers. Mentions Ms. May was first black teacher. Mentions Myerson's Brothers store. Many blacks worked as clerks for the state. Discussion of some discrimination. "White person are in the chair, and much more of them that's qualified than our group."
