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History remembers the Boston Massacre in March 1770 as thefirst fight in the buildup to the American Revolution. Five died that
day, including Crispus Attucks, said to be an offspring of an Africanman and a Nantucket Indian mother. Attucks and four others killedthat night became martyrs. York’s Crispus Attucks Association is
named after the man who became a hero as ‘the first to defy, the
first to die’ on America’s road to freedom.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?Before the Crispus Attucks
Center was formed, twostruggling agencies servedthe needs of York’s growingblack community. In 1930,
York’s Welfare Federation, a
forerunner to the United Way,called in New Yorker Dr.
Ernest T. Attwell to bring TheCommunity House and the
Emergency Girls Club
together.
in his own words‘For 40 years I struggled against separate schools, formore learning opportunities for Negroes of all ages.
There were disappointments and victories.’The Rev. Thomas E. Montouth,1968
a history lessonThe call of jobs during the years of pre-Depressionindustrial growth drew thousands of black people
northward. Many stopped in York, the first factory-ladencity on the railroad, north of the Mason-Dixon Line.
The Rev. Thomas E.
Montouth Sr.’s FaithPresbyterian Churchsponsored The Community
House, a forerunner of the
Crispus Attucks Center.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Crispus Attucks established its first center in the former YorkHospital nurses’ building, West College Avenue and Oak Lane, in
1931. The hospital had moved to its current site in 1930.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?Five hundred people attendedthe Crispus Attucks Center’s
opening ceremony on March 9,1931, and more than 3,000
toured during the public eventthe next day. The opening cameafter Dr. Ernest T. Attwell, field
director of the Playground andRecreation Association of
America, came from New York toYork in 1930. His mission was to
pull together York’s two,
often-feuding, agencies into onestrong group.
in their own words
‘The Women’s Clubs bans her. The Girl’s Club ignoresher. The Salvation Army refuses beds to her brothersin black because a white down-and-out man refuses
to be near him. A man without manners has theprivilege of ordering colored girls moved from besidehim in a theater. Her boys have no boys club except apoolroom. The Social Service club does not invite her.The Community Circle changes the game when the
next turn is hers.’Community House officials write York’s Chamber of
Commerce, 1922
a history lessonYork County’s black population doubled between 1920
and 1930 – from 1,416 to 2,977 – as those in theSouth sought work above the Mason-Dixon Line.
Dr. George W. Bowlesserved as master of
ceremonies at CA’sformal opening. He
was head of York’sInter-Racial
Commission, amongnumerous other civicduties.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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For three decades, Helen Reeves Thackston directed York’s firstday-care program for the black community. She headed CA’s
program from 1932 to 1964. ‘Helen didn’t just teach children, shetaught them to be proud,’ Sylvia Newcombe, retired YorkRecreation Commission head, stated in 1979. A neighborhood
park in York is named after Helen Thackston.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?Helen Thackston was the first staffer of what became
a core of CA workers who provided continuity foryears. Edward R. Simmons replaced Chester Hayes,
CA’s first executive director, in 1943 and served until1962. Mildred J. Chapman supervised women’s andgirls’ activities from 1941 to 1965. Wade Bowers
started his long stint as education director in 1952.
the words of others‘During the lean years of the Depression, and for
some time afterward, Helen Thackston received nopay for conducting her pre-school classes. She taught
children between the ages of two and five how todress themselves, to eat properly, to say please andthank-you, to make things out of glue and paper and
Popsicle sticks, and to read and write.’
York Daily Record, 1979
a history lessonAt the time of its founding in 1931, York’s CrispusAttucks Center had a counterpart in Lancaster. Ruby
Baker, director of the Red Rose City’s CrispusAttucks, spoke with enthusiasm about York’s new digs.
Lancaster’s Crispus Attucks organization continues tooperate today, as do about 10 other similarly named,but unaffiliated, centers in the United States. Many of
the centers, as did CA in York, formed to providesocial, service and recreational opportunities for black
people in the age of segregation.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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St. Luke’s sanctuary had been converted for multi-purpose usewhen this calisthenics class was working out in 1946.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
a history lessonCA’s founding officers: W.W. Thackston, president;Henry Hopewell, secretary; Susie Murray, financial;
Chester N. Hayes, executive director. Founding board
members: Clarence Jackson; Dr. George W. Bowles;John Williams; Julia Craig; Mary Turner; IreneHawkins; Basil Biggs; R.B. Dennis; W.H. Felton; LeahHopewell; Etha Armstrong; Charles Copewell; HelenBowles; J.G. Cooper; Joanna Harris. A mixed-race
advisory board also provided counsel.
did you know?
CA’s East Maple Street centercame about this way: St.Luke’s building became
available after its congregationhad helped form the new St.
Paul’s church on South GeorgeStreet. In 1939, St. Paul’s, then
at King and Beaver streets,
had burned down, and itsmembers joined with St. Luke’sand Augsburg’s congregations
to build a new house ofworship that stands today. YorkCity Hall was erected on theformer St. Paul’s site in 1942.
The Crispus Attucks
Center moved to 1902-vintage St. Luke’sLutheran Church, 125 E.
Maple St., in 1944, seenhere near the end of its
center use in the late1960s.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Queenie Rhoades and CA Executive Director Edward R. Simmons
hold a painting of renowned contralto Marian Anderson, who was
no stranger to York residents. She performed in York in 1941.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
a history lessonContralto Marian Anderson
and tenor Roland W. Hayes,billed as the foremost black
singers in America,captivated an audience of600 at the William Penn
High School Auditorium in1941. The singers’
repertoire ranged fromNegro ballads and spirituals
to interpretations of Frenchand Italian compositions. A
newspaper reported that themixed audience of whiteand black music lovers
provided equal doses ofapplause and requested
numerous encores.
did you know?In 1944, community leader Dr. George W. Bowles
noted that York was making history in opening its newcenter on East Maple Street. ‘Today in Germany,because of the arrogant bigotry of the so called
superior race, no such dedicatorial ceremony wouldbe possible,’ he said. The Crispus Attucks Associationwas a character-building organization, and charactermattered. Such was missing in Germany. ‘The loss of
a firm national character and the degradation of anation’s honor,’ he said, ‘is the inevitable prelude to
that nation’s destruction and decay.’
The sanctuary of the formerSt. Luke’s church providedroom for a variety of
activities, plus its stage putthe spotlight on all kinds ofevents. Here, Philadelphia’s
John Davis pumps York-made iron in 1947.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Some Crispus Attucks Association activities took place outside its
East Maple Street Center. Here, seven-year-old Robert Woodyard,son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Woodyard, York, wins the flower box
division in a garden contest sponsored by CA’s Pinafore Club in1948. The second-grader was the youngest of 12 children.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?Tillman Sease, Mel
Ransom, William Myers,Lois Lambert, Abe Ritter
and Carrie Ford wereamong college graduates
benefiting from CA’sprograms in the center’s
early years.
the words of others‘York’s elementary schools are mostly segregated, but
athletes from both black and white schools competeagainst each other on the field in 1941. Boy and girlteams from the Smallwood School win the annualelementary school track and field meet staged at
Small Athletic Field. ... A list of the competing schools
gives a glimpse at the schools in York: Smallwood,Ridge, Franklin, Noell, Pine, Roosevelt, AquillaHoward, McKinley, Jefferson, Central, Garfield,
Stevens and Hartley.’
James McClure’s ‘Almost Forgotten,’ 2002
a history lessonJoanna ‘Aunt Jo’ Harris served on CA’s first advisory
board. To honor her, a lane near her West PrincessStreet home received the name Aunt Jo Lane in
1980.
Hannah Johnson, 14-year-olddaughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Marshall Johnson, York, poseswith some of the zinnias androses that won her top honors
in CA’s contest for flowergardens in 1948.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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The period between 1944 and 1960 represented the most
memorable moments of the center’s first 50 years. These staffmembers, pictured in 1953, provided a framework for the CrispusAttucks Center during many of those years: Standing, from left,
Edward R. Simmons; William D. Barber; Wade Bowers. Sitting,
from left, Helen Thackston; Hilda Carter; Mildred J. Chapman.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?USO activities for black
servicemen in World WarII took place at the
Crispus Attucks Center.CA sponsored dances,
mushball games anddinners and also sent
junior and seniorhostesses to dances at
Fort Indiantown Gap. TheUSO at CA faced the
same challenge as other
such homes away fromhome for servicemen: a
shortage of hostesses. Anumber of young women
attended college or
worked in defense plants.Still, more than 100
senior and juniorhostesses were available
at CA when the need for
them arose.
the words ofothers
‘What the Negro leadersof this community arehoping for is that thepurchase of the new
Crispus Attucks home is
the beginning of a betterunderstanding of theproblems we have created
for the Negro and awillingness on our part as
well as on the part of theNegroes to attack thoseproblems together in the
spirit of our common
brotherhood and commoncitizenship in our
democracy. If there is anycharity involved, it is thecharitable attitude of ourNegro citizens toward our
shortcomings.’
The Gazette and Daily,upon the East Maple
Street center’s opening,1944
Crispus Attucks’ Midget Leaguechamps in 1953. Team members:
from left, Teddy Hartzog, Billy Moss,Charles Crist, Lee Calhoun and Joe
Watkins.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Participants show off their puppets at CA’s East Maple Street
Center in 1953.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in his own words
‘In the future Negro people will have many new doorsof opportunity open to them. To you boys and girlswho hope to spend your time marching, what will yoube able to do with your new opportunities? It will notfit you to accept a job in the diplomatic service or in
an engineering firm. You must have a firmbackground. No matter how hard the dog barks, themountains do not fall down. That requires hard work.In all your doings, then, think clearly before acting.’
CA Executive Director Edward R. Simmons, on
protest marches, 1949
a history lessonYork’s black community headed into the 1950swithout the considerable leadership of Dr. George W.Bowles, who died in 1951. For decades, he and theRev. Thomas E. Montouth had been the foremost
spokesmen in the York area on issues affecting blackpeople.
Crispus Attucks Center congratulated the more than 100
volunteers who contributed time to the center. Pictured here, CA’sboard in 1953: George A. Webb, Sr., bookkeeper; WadeRobinson, Thomas Chatman; Dr. O.H. Kimbrough, president;
Irene Grimes, secretary; Rodger Woodyard; George A. Palmer; J.Fred Moore. Absent: Mrs. Rosetta Washington; Mrs. H. Pappe.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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The CA girls basketball team scored a 30-2 record in 1953.Sitting, from left: Betty Calhoun, Mary Jackson, Stumpy Rhoades,
Loma Martin, Marie Ritter. Standing, from left: Moe Muldrow,manager; Sylvia Colston; Jannie Harley; Audrey Folk; William
Barber, coach. Rhoades and Calhoun served as co-captains.
Crispus Attucks newsletters pointed out that the crowds at
Crispus Attucks game were often larger than those attending local
high school events. The Crispus Attucks boys basketball team lostonly to Harrisburg in compiling a 34-1 record in 1953. Teammembers, sitting, from left: George Wilson, Leon Walker, Art Carr,Dave Sweeney, Ike Way. Standing: Moe Muldrow, manager;
Robert Mosley; Dan Williams; William Ferguson; Tom Montouth;Clyde Williams; William Barber, coach. Absent: Herman Walker.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in his own words‘This is the season for many contests and
tournaments giving participants the opportunity to testthe various skills that were developed during the year.
However, it is not good reasoning for participants toenter these contests only when they feel that they areclassified as championship timber. As a matter of fact,
champions are made not born. In fact, everychampion has, one time or another, suffered
humiliating defeat.’CA Executive Director Edward R. Simmons, 1952
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Crispus Attucks Pinafore Club members enjoy tea in 1953.
Members here include, seated, from left, Mae Jenkins, SadalNimmons, Mrs. Jones, Thelma Kell, Virgie Charms, Mrs. Simmons,
Mattie Chapman; standing, from left, Rosetta McKinney, MildredChapman, Vivian Homes, Sylvia Woodyard, Creola Liggins andBeula Green.
Irene Grimes presents ping pong tournament championshipawards to eight girls in 1953. Receiving awards are, from left,Pauletta Morton, Mary Jackson, Joan Stokes, Lorraine Ashe,
Sandra Green, Helena Posey, Leona Williams and MildredChapman, women’s and girls’ department supervisor.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?A burning debate found its way onto the pages of theCA Herald in 1950: Should there be a pool table for
girls at CA? Some responses:Don Riveria: ‘In a democracy there should be no
discrimination against persons because of sex. The
question should have been, “Do you think there areenough girls in CA who want to play?”
Almarie Smallwood: ‘No, I don’t think pool is a goodgame for girls. Just to come to the center to play pool
would not seem nice.’
Dorothy Hayman: ‘Yes, I think that the center shouldput a pool table in the girl’s room ... I think we would
enjoy it.’
Lawrence Sweeney: ‘Heaven forbid. What willwomen want next? ... It would make them look
manish. It’s bad enough to have them running aroundin overalls.’
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Music played a key part in the Crispus Attucks Center’s programsfrom its earliest days. Director Emanuel Washington, front row,
center, is shown with the Community Chorus of York in this
undated photo.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?Wade Bowers earned a
bachelor’s degree in music
theory from MorehouseCollege in Atlanta, performedas a professional singer andpianist for five years beforeturning to civic work at the
Harlem YMCA and elsewhere.The tenor started his 20-yeargig with Crispus Attucks in1952. He was called out of
retirement in 1992 to serve asinterim president of the local
chapter of the NAACP.
the words of others‘When we sang, he made it our calling. I can still
remember many of the songs we used to sing. Wesang in Italian and in other languages. We sang songsfrom operas. He gave us songs that carried us
through. He demanded that we get the best and bethe best that we could be.’
Longtime teacher/administrator
Dr. Julia Hines-Harris’ memories of Bowers
For years, Wade
Hampton Bowers III, aformer professional
musician, headed CAmusic and educationalprograms. He died at the
age of 87 in 1993.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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The sign with the Crispus Attucks Girl Scout troops says it all. Thetroop took a three-day field trip to New York and Canada in thesummer of 1954. Well, not all. The CA Mother’s Club sponsoredthe trip.
In 1956, representatives of Charles E. Williams American Legion
Post 794 present flags to Crispus Attucks Girl Scout Troop No. 83.Members of the troop in those years included J. Mae Hines, M.
Hawkins, B. Lambert, P. Liggett, N. Jean Miller, E. Morton, P.Morton, L. Williams, J. Cuthrell, D. Posey, M. Kirkland, J. Rice, J.
Simmons, C. Williams, K. Taylor, G. Thomas, A. Sexton and E.Young.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in their own words‘How to make love.’
‘As of January 1 all persons not having membershipcards will not be eligible to participate in organized
activities at the center. Excuse the misleading title butunder such a popular heading we are assured of a
wide reading – aren’t we devils?’
CA Herald, December 1949
‘Teen-Town socials and dances: Girls wear nylons, nosocks or blue jeans; boys wear jackets and no
overalls. Act like ladies and gentlemen.’CA Herald, March-April 1951
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Intermediate students at Crispus Attucks Center enjoy movies,
games, music – and treats – during Christmas festivities, 1954.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
the words of others‘Those who went to C.A. in those old days, very rarely
got into big trouble, because they had a foundation,even though everything at home was not so rosy.
They always could go to C.A. It was a place for joyand happiness, where you could learn something, and
a place just to keep warm.’
York City Schools teacher/administrator Dr. Julia Hines-Harris, about CA in the 1950s
‘As the burnished leaves of autumn fell, basketball
found itself in full swing. The Girls and Boys team are
well into their schedules and members have foundthat winning a game is quite a tasty dish as far aseating the fruits of competition is concerned.’
James Spells, CA Herald, 1952
did you know?In the 1950s, the Rev. Thomas E. Montouth, CA
library committee chair, selected books for the center
using Martin Library’s discount. A selection follows:J.A. Rogers’ World’s Great Men of Color
Francis Ullman’s Girl Alive Anna May Jones’ Leisure Time Education
Robert C. Weaver’s The Negro Ghetto
Willis Richardson’s Negro Plays and Pageants Richard Wright’s Black Boy
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Mary Lou
Kirkland andJonathan ‘Joe’Stokes
perform
pantomime inthe teen talentshow.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in their own words‘We would get excited about issues such as wanting
the Teen Town dances to last until late in the evening.Or we argued to have them turn the lights down. We
knew they wouldn’t go for it, but tried anyway. I stayedthere until I went off to college in 1958. It was an
exciting place to be.’
Teacher/administrator Dr. Julia Hines-Harris, about CAin the 1950s
‘C.A. was a focal point for keeping the family together.It kept the kids off the streets and allowed parents to
send their children to a place they felt was positiveand safe.’
Civic leader Wm. Lee Smallwood, who still thinks of CA as his home away from home.
The Crispus Attucks Center’s annual report for 1955 showed adance routine at the Teen Town Talent Show. Hoofers are, fromleft, Ruth Hunter, Elizabeth Nelse and Mary Lou Kirkland.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Before the South Side Steppers came the Ballet and Tap Dance
classes at Crispus Attucks Center, then located on 125 E. MapleSt. This photo was taken in 1959.
The center served older girls, too. Here, Helynn Spencer, right,Troop 491 Girl Scout leader, discusses troop business with, fromleft, Mary Sims, secretary; Geraldine Wright, president; and
Leonora Spells, treasurer. This photograph was taken in 1961 – tohelp celebrate the 30th anniversary of the center.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?In 1962, Executive Director Edward R. Simmons left
CA after 20 years to take a position with the stateHuman Relations Commission. One by one, HelenThackston, Mildred Chapman and other core staff
members retired. If the years between 1944 and 1960were CA’s golden years, the next 15-plus years would
be marked by changes in executive directors and staffand declining membership and programs.
a history lesson‘CA’s philosophy of recreation is the supreme
importance of the individual and the significance ofour democratic ideals. People who play together can,
and will, find wholesome avenues for living andworking together in peace and harmony.’
Executive Director Edward R. Simmons, 1960
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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By 1971, Crispus Attucks’ 125 E. Maple St. center, required majorrepairs. The turn-of-the-century former St. Luke’s Lutheran Church
was not built for the rigors of basketball and other sports events.‘Basically it was falling apart. The auditorium was on the secondfloor, a long flight of stairs up, the only large room in the place. It
was used as gymnasium, meeting place, concert hall. Theactivities were on the first floor and in basement, but you could
hear noise from the top floor all the way down,’ York resident Alice
Bowers recalled. Here, Jesse Manning’s drawing of CrispusAttucks hangs in CA months before it gave way to a new center.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?Excerpts from a CA fundraising brochure, 1971:‘York is no different than a lot of other communitieswhen it comes to having racial difficulties. ... We are
faced with the culmination of something that has beennurtured for generations. There is no overnight
solution, but there is a starting point. In York it is theCrispus Attucks Center.’
‘1944-1960: Membership peaked and then began a
gradual decline. Due to the lack of finances and withhard use, the building deteriorated. There was
difficulty in hiring and retaining staff. Programmedactivities diminished. Yet, Crispus Attucks Center
remained the sole resource available to the majority ofblacks in York.’
‘The ‘60’s brought about big changes. ... As localagencies dropped their color restrictions, the upwardly
mobile black families left Crispus Attucks Center andfiltered to the vastly superior facilities, programming
and staff offered by the white agencies.’
‘The thinking was that the other agencies would
quickly absorb the total black community. This was not
to be. Only a small percentage of blacks feltcomfortable.’
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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This aerial view shows the newly constructed 605 S. Duke St.Street Crispus Attucks Center, lower middle. The site was formerlyoccupied by Calvary United Presbyterian Church, which merged
with Calvary and Trinity United churches.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in their ownwords
‘The new Center, as part of
the redevelopment of theneighborhood, will signifythat the community doescare about its low-income
citizens and minority
groups.’Fundraising brochure, 1971
did you know?A six-month fundraising campaign in 1971 netted
$645,000, contributing toward a $1.3 millionconstruction cost of the new Crispus Attucks Center,
lower center in photo. Elliott Breese, general managerof York’s Caterpillar plant, served as general
campaign chairman of a 22-member committee. IrvinA. Kittrell served as the center’s executive director.The cornerstone on the new center is dated 1973.
the words of othersLooking ahead
‘Are you in earnest? Seize this moment.What you think you can do, begin it!
Boldness has courage, power, magic in it.Begin, and the mind grows heated.
Begin, and the job will be completed.’
Sadie Orr Dunbar, Crispus Attucks Herald, 1971
The Jewel-Tone GospelSingers performed at thenewly opened CrispusAttucks Center on SouthDuke Street.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Elliott Breese, York’s Caterpillar Plant general manager andCrispus Attucks’ campaign chairman, addresses a gathering at the
new 605 S. Duke St. center. William Wolf of Wolf Supply, a keymember of the campaign committee, wrote Breese: ‘In my mind,
the biggest single factor in the success of the Crispus AttucksBuilding Fund drive was your acceptance as general chairman.’ Dr.
Frederick D. Holliday, York City schools superintendent, is at left.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in his own words‘... The mission of Crispus Attucks is to improve the
quality of life for the citizens of York, especially thosewho are Black and oppressed. Major emphasis is to
improve health and employment opportunities,education and recreation for the Center’s participants.
‘In addition, it is the Center’s aim to teach the less
fortunate to become their own advocates andmediators. ... We can change the way things are. And,
of all the institutions in York, Crispus Attucks is thelogical choice to improve the quality of life among the
disaffected.’
York City Schools Supt. Frederick D. Holliday, CAannual meeting, 1975
the words of othersI got my freedom (excerpted)
‘I got my freedom when my brothers fought for thisland,
I got my freedom when they made those gallant laststands.
I got my freedom when my brothers were fighting to
be free,They were fighting for themselves, also for you and
me... .I got my freedom the hard way, I tell you no
lie,
If I ever have to give up my freedom I will rather die.’Samuel Beard, CA Herald, 1971
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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This cover from Caterpillar World features Crispus AttucksAssociation’s Executive Director Bobby Simpson, a former Cat
worker. Simpson is largely credited with transforming CA from astruggling center when he took over in 1979, to an aggressive
community development agency today.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?By 1979, Crispus Attucks, with a turnover of a half
dozen executive directors in seven years, had fallenon difficult times. ‘We needed a strong personality to
clean up things, to restore a sense of pride. Theanswer was right there sitting on the board, Bobby
Simpson,’ Board President Dan Elby recalled in 1994.‘He didn’t have fancy credentials behind his name,but other things can be more important; a sense of
life’s experience, leadership ability, the courage totake a risk and a big heart. Bobby had it all.’
in his own words‘Someone asked me what was the greatest speech
I’ve ever heard, and I’ve heard many great speechesby famous people... . (T)he speech which mostimpressed me was by a very poor, humble anduneducated lady, and the speech was short and
simple, yet it had a lasting impact on me, and it came
from my mother. She simply stated no one owed youa living in life, get it for yourself. This is what I live by,and what we try to instill and encourage our people at
Crispus Attucks to do ... .’
Bobby Simpson, in speech at Jackson Elementary
School
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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A Crispus Attucks Day Care Center brochure shows worker Kathy
Bob enjoying tea time with some youngsters. The brochuresstates that if a child has a maximum opportunity for meeting his or
her own needs, with the help of an adult who perceives thoseneeds, he or she will be prepared for natural advancement.
‘He/She cannot help growing up!’ it states.
Building with mini-connectors develops small muscles andeye-hand coordination. And children at the CA day-care center,
serving toddlers to 14-year-olds, had fun, too. In this undated
photo, those served by the day care include: Meagan Fromm,Brian Grooms, Dinah Sanders, Abdul Buchanan and Luis
Sotomayor.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?Crispus Attucks Center resumed offering day care for
preschool children in 1974 – a program started by
Helen Reeves Thackston in 1932 and operated underher direction for decades.
a history lessonOn its first anniversary, the Crispus Attucks Early
Learning Center received high marks from the stateDepartment of Welfare’s Office of Day Care Services.The highest praise comes for the teachers who are
‘constantly involved’ and ‘neither remote orlackadaisical in their program participation.’ Dolores
Borom directed the program, which operated under anadvisory board headed by Timothy Warfield.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
8/18/2019 Crispus Attucks anniversary special section
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This page from a Crispus Attucks Early Learning Centerclassbook, 1976-1977, shows teacher Kathy Weibel’s class of 8-
to 11-year-olds.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in his own words‘He told me he was hired to run the schools, not as a
civil rights leader. He told me I was here to runCrispus Attucks the best I could and to let the chips
fall where they may.’
Bobby Simpson, about mentor Frederick D. Holliday
did you know?Dr. Frederick D. Holliday, who left hispost as head of York City Schools in1981, tutored Bobby Simpson for two
hours every Wednesday for nearly
three years. Holliday was a CrispusAttucks member for seven years.
a history lesson‘Long as in freedom’ cause the wise contend, Dear to
your country shall your fame extend, While to theworld the lettered stone shall tell,
Where Caldwell, Attucks, Gray and Maverick fell.’Crispus Attucks Herald, 1971
SedneyPabon
captured theMiss CrispusAttucks crown
in 1980.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
8/18/2019 Crispus Attucks anniversary special section
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Michael Jefferson, employment director,
posed a question at Crispus Attucks’annual meeting in 1988. ‘My girlfriend,
Shirley Lambert Poe – will you marryme?’ After applause, someone shouted,
‘She hasn’t given an answer yet,’someone called out. Ms. Poe was
standing, covering her mouth with hands. Ms. Poe’s answer: ‘Yes.
Yes.’
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in their own wordsThe Crispus Attucks time schedule for success‘If you’re early, you are on time. If you’re on time,
you’re late. But, if you’re late, you’re fired!’
CA Employment Center sign, 1992
‘Our staff is here because they want to be. That’sdifferent from someone who wants a job. We, as astaff, have to give blood, sweat and tears. ‘The kids
who come into Crispus Attucks have to work for their
memberships. They have to clean this building. Theyhave to put their hands on it.’
Bobby Simpson, 1992
a history lessonIn 1974, Roy O. Borom became the first black person
to serve on York City Council. Borom had come toYork to head CA six years before. ‘The current role of
the Crispus Attucks executive director shouldencompass a commitment to engage the larger
community in a mutual identification and alteration ofthose external forces ...,’ Borom said, ‘that representbarriers to the equal opportunity and full citizenship
status for Negroes and other underprivilegedcommunity residents.’ Wm. Lee Smallwood and Ray
Crenshaw also later served on council. Crenshawbecame the city’s first black mayoral candidate in
2001.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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First Lady Barbara Bush gives high-fives outside Crispus AttucksCommunity Center. She visited in 1988 and 1992. ‘These
youngsters have had an experience that a lot of kids in thiscountry wish they had ...,’ CA Executive Director Bobby Simpsonsaid, ‘It’s something they will remember the rest of their lives.’
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
the words of others‘Here’s a center that has pulled itself together and is
doing something about drug abuse, affordablehousing, and day care. They’re taking the whole
community and trying to solve an enormous amount
of problems and that’s very exciting. ‘I think this will bea pilot program the rest of the country will want to
copy.’
Barbara Bush, during one of her CA visits
in his own words‘Due to the unique aspects of the facility, the childrenhave met with many visitors. They have entertainedtours from the Soviet Union; entertained and were
entertained by the Up With People cast; met
numerous commonwealth government officials; metpeople from other foreign lands; shared a latemorning with Miss America 1990: and, met – a
favorite among the children and staff alike – the FirstLady, Mrs. Barbara Bush.’
Longtime Associate Director Bob Hollis, ‘The World and I’ publication, 1992
‘Crispus Attucks is like the U.N. Every nationality thatis in York can come through these doors and feel
comfortable.’Bobby Simpson, 1992
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Crispus Attucks opened a Youth Mini-Mart in 1990 at its 605 S.Duke St. center to teach participants how a business operates andto provide an alternative learning setting. Students working
regularly and displaying a good attitude could gain points. Thepoints, translated into dollars, could be used for the personal
money management part of the program. The center and York-
based McCrory’s Stores oversaw the project.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
the words of others‘For eight weeks, Jamus Bryant learned accounting,
inventory, merchandising and marketing.
‘Today will be the 14-year-old’s first day on the job.‘Jamus is among 100 middle school students enrolledin the Crispus Attucks Association Drug PreventionProgram that are learning how the free enterprise
system works by operating the new Youth Mini-Mart.‘ “This will give me a better chance at getting hired at
a store when I get out of school,” ‘ Jamus said.
York Daily Record, 1990
in his own words
‘We want to dispel the myth that the association is arecreation center. The problems in our community aremore serious than recreation. It is our responsibility totake care of the community. Too many times, it is tooeasy to push that responsibility off on someone else.’
CA Executive Director Bobby Simpson to Economics Club, 1990
A history lessonBlack people gained many firsts in the 1970s and1980s: Frederick D. Holliday became York’s school
superintendent and Doris Sweeney city schools firstblack female director. Thomas Chatman became
York’s police chief. Roy O. Borom gained a seat oncity council. Bobby Simpson chaired York’s Chamber
of Commerce. Prothonotary Mattie Chapman became
the county’s first black elected official.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Sharon Oden was
the first person tosign a lease-purchase through
Crispus AttucksCommunityDevelopment Corp.
in 1991. Six York-area banks worked
with CA to providethe loan.Celebrating the sale
at 513 S. Duke St.are, from left,
Melinda Higgins, Historic York Inc., executive director; ElaineMiller, Drovers Bank mortgage office; Oden; Oden’s friend
William Orr; and Lance Jamison, property manager.
Crispus Attuck’s South SideSteppers, working here on their
routines in 1993, have wonnumerous state and national
drill team titles. Members musttake responsibility courses,
learning good manners,importance of following theGolden Rule and respecting their elders. The shadow of 7-year-old
Burgundi Miles is the tallest.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?The name of Aunt LovieJamison, longtime CA
volunteer who wasconsidered to be themother of everyone,
graces the South DukeStreet Center’s snack bar
and an annual award
granted to communitymembers. Jamison wonthe first award named inher honor in 1993, and
Dolores Brown capturedthe Aunt Lovie Jamison
Personal Inspiration Awardthe next year for her
dedication, cheerfulness
and service to theassociation despite
serious health problems.After winning the award in
2002, Don Gogniat,
retiring from the CA board,said he even likes sayingthe name of the award,
‘Aunt Lovie.’
in his ownwords
‘We have been aroundCA for a long time. One
of the biggestchallenges we face as
an agency is to bring in
the next generation ofleadership, at both theboard and staff level, tocontinue what we have
started.’
Board President Dan Elby, active in CA since 1975, commenting in
1994 on his relationship with Bobby Simpson and Ray Crenshaw
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Children at Crispus Attucks Community Center recite a creedstressing education and a positive self-image at a ground-breaking ceremony for a $2.5 million education wing in August1992. Bobby Simpson, Crispus Attucks Association executive
director, listens to the youngsters. Crispus Attucks broke ground toadd 21,000 square feet to its structure at 605 S. Duke St. thatincluded classrooms that later housed YouthBuild Charter School,offices, game rooms, two computer centers and a senior citizenswing.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in his own words‘This new wing will focus on the preparation of our
youth for leadership roles in the community. Here atCrispus Attucks, we are constantly exposing our youth
to the positive aspects of our culture.... We all know
the importance of education; it is something no onecan ever take from you.’
CA board member Ray Crenshaw, 1994
Did you know?Crispus Attucks Summer Day Camp Creed
‘I am a positive individualready to navigate my life
in positive channelsThe world owes me nothing.
It is up to meto achieve
to live my lifeto plan my destiny
My plan is to succeed.’
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Longtime Crispus Attucks Associate Director Bob Hollis reads toTamasha Whitaker, Shayla Crenshaw, Tagee Nesbit and Kevin Hall
at the CA Early Learning Center in 1994.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did you know?Some parents send their children to the center
because they are looking for a multi-racialenvironment. ‘They recognize that this is what their
children’s life will be like in the future both in theschool and the workplace,’ Bob Hollis stated in a CAnewsletter, ‘and they want them to understand how to
deal with it.
In his own words‘Bob (Hollis) has been through more than anyone
should go through in a lifetime. He has been mentallyand physically abused for 13 years. He has been my
right-and left-hand man.’Bobby Simpson, 1988
‘I don’t think money can buy what Crispus Attucksgives.’
Bob Hollis, 1988
A history lessonThe 39,000-square-foot Loretta Claiborne Building onSouth George Street opened in 2001. The CA-ownedproject, costing about $5 million, housed classroomsfor Penn State York and York College; York HospitalCommunity Health Center; and other businesses.
Today, CA’s Boundary Avenue Project also includesthe commercial Greenway Tech Centre and the Junior
Achievement-occupied Himes building.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Dorothy Orr reads to children during her day as director of theCrispus Attucks Early Learning Center in 1996. When asked about
the most rewarding part of her job, she said, ‘To see a child learnsomething and retain it.’ The most difficult part? ‘Stayingprofessional and being able to smile through it all.’
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in her own words‘Staff turnover is usually very high in day care. But,
we have at least 10 people, who have been here for15 to 20 years. This tells you about the character of
the people at Crispus Attucks; we stick togetherthrough the good and the bad.’
Dorothy Orr, Crispus Attucks Early Learning Center
director
A history lessonU.S. Census figures show that 10,270 black people
lived in York in 2000. Blacks make up more than 25
percent of York’s population. Countywide, 14,095blacks make up 3.6 percent of the population in 2000.
Eight-year-old Montez Parkerreaches for a piece while playingLuke Warner at Crispus AttucksCommunity Center in 2000. The
twice-weekly program engages theminds of 20 or so players. Grelan
Holmes, South George StreetCommunity Partnership
Americorps, oversaw ‘The Game ofLife.’ ‘My focus is trying to help youth think properly. It’s the thoughtprocess,’ Holmes said. ‘If I can get some kids who can learn how
to think through the process of chess, once they learn tostrategize, and they learn they can apply it to everyday life they
won’t be so impulsive, and they’ll learn the consequence of theiractions. They will take time to look at the big picture.’
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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Mary RoseDolce andJabbar Seasewere pleasedwith the towerthey built in
Dolce’spre-school classat CrispusAttucks EarlyLearning Center.
The teacher was one of 50nationally selected for a nationalchild-care teaching award in 2006.The award recognized teachers formaintaining high quality child-carepractices and dedication to theirstudents.
Jay Johnson, Victor Soto, and Davone Bethel paint railings on aSouth York Street property in York in 2002. The three werestudents at Crispus Attucks YouthBuild Charter School. Bethelcalled Youthbuild a great program where everyone worked as ateam.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
did youknow?
In 1979, CA’s annualbudget was $300,000;
today, it’s $6.2 million.The Boundary Avenueproject is designed tohelp the organization
survive on its own. CA
also is planning tobuild a new day-care
center across thestreet from its current
location. As for the
future, ExecutiveDirector BobbySimpson’s dream is to
have a completeschool on the CA
campus, kindergartenthrough grade 12. The
school would offerstudents a solid
education, he said, sothat they could enterany college they want
anywhere in thecountry.
In her own words‘You can just see ... that they
really want to help you.’India Thompson-Beatty, 18,assesses CA’s Youthbuild
Charter School staff
A history lessonCA’s reach extends beyondYork’s black community. In
2004, of the 317 peopleresiding in CA-owned
housing, 58 percent wereblack, 37 percent Hispanic
and 5 percent white.
For complete series, see w2.ydr.com/news/blackhistory. Photo and story credits: Crispus AttucksAssociation;York County Heritage Trust; James McClure: “Never to be Forgotten,” “Almost Forgotten.”
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The Steppers perform during RiverFest activities in Wrightsville in2004.
making historyby james mcclure and ted sickler
CelebratingCrispus Attucks75 years • 1931-2006
in her own words‘They must keep it going. It’s what brought us over.Where others had the YM or the YW, we had C.A.
They always did the most for us they could.’Former teacher/administrator Dr. Julia Hines-Harris,
casting a vision for children and youth at CA
A history lessonA 1971 fundraising brochure stated: ‘The Center was
established in 1931– a time when blacks wereexcluded from other agencies. Through the efforts ofa black man traveling from community to community,a group of local white citizens purchased a vacant
Nurses’ Home and donated it to the black population.Crispus Attucks Center has served as the hub ofYork’s black social, civic, cultural, educational and
recreational activities for 40 years.’Make that 75 years.
The Crispus Attucks South SideSteppers perform as part of Black
History Day at Hannah Penn MiddleSchool in 1996. The day’s events
included guest speakers IsiahAnderson from Crispus Attucks
YouthBuild, and Otis Williams of theNyumburu Cultural Center at theUniversity of Maryland; jazz and blues
music; and a fashion show of African clothes modeled by Hannah
Penn students.
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