Pamphlet - Student Disturbance

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No. 2

ADDITIONAL

LETTERS

FROM

Parents
OF FISK STUDENTS

AND FROM

| Alumni

Together with

- Certain Other Statements

RELATIVE TO THE

Recent Disturbance

AT
Fisk University

February 4, 1925

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SHO COOH OHHH OO OOOOH

Tololtiteitrrtsttctteistettetetetetterrtstst stot

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Tyler, Texas,
February, 1925.

My dear Dr. McKenzie:

Your statement and Miss So haiels letter,
came today. I have been blue since a know.
edge of the affair reached me late last week

Your statement and Miss Seribners gts (A
state just what I told my wife and children
was the status of the case. Alot of. young
hot-heads urged on by DuBois agitation lost
control of themselves. : cael

Knowing student life as I do, not even. my
own children can swerve me the one- -eighth
of an inch in line against, authority.

As Alumni ie the University you have our
heartiest support and deepest sympathy.
Stand firm and hold the reins. The storm will
blow over.

We are sympathizingly yours,

(Signed) T. J. AUSTIN, 85.
MRS, T. J. AUSTIN, 87.:

-.

_ M.I. College, Holly Springs, Miss.,
# February 2a, 1925.

Debiidant F, A. McKenzie,

Fisk University,

Nashville, Tenn.,.

Dear. President MvKengies

It grieved me to hear of the disturbance at
Fisk University.

Allow me to assure you that you have my
sympathy.

IT earnestly trust. that the situation will
mean a brighter day for Fisk and that success
will continue to crown your noble efforts.

. You have my prayers and support for the
things which contribute glory and honor to
dear Fisks name. :

A loyal alumnus,

(Signed) ETHEL C. RIVERS, 24.
6 Chestnut St., Atlanta, Ga.,
February 22, 1925.

Dr. Fayette McKenzie,
Nashville, Tenn.

Dear Sir:

I have received from your office, very re-

cently, clippings from the local newspapers
chore tolieie the incident which occurred there
February 4. I also received letters from your
office written by various leading officials and
from the Vice-Chairman of the Institution.

I feel very sorry that such came about. I
am in sympathy with you in such a time as
you have had. These unfortunate outbreaks
occur in many other places. Although "we
are all sorry, it may be for the best after all.
God suffers his followers to experience such
evils, sometimes on account of the guilty one.
You have my deepest sympathy and continued
prayers. ae

My child remained. TI hope she will al
ways, until she graduates, be under the watch-
eare of a Christian Institution, Fisk Univer-
sity. . pet

Very respectfully,
(Signed) MARY M. GRIMES,

Teacher in Atlanta Public Schools, and mother
of a student.

|

Tampa, Florida,
February 21, 1925.
My dear Dr. McKenzie: ;
Having carefully read the several communi-

cations sent me from your office, setting forth
the high ideals for which Fisk University has

-always stood and from which I pray God she

may never waver, I cannot, for the life of
me, see wherein such regulations (than which
I can conceive of none more ennobling). could
in the remotest manner justify the recent de-
plorable action taken by some. members of

the student bodymisguided irresponsible

youths-who have no conception of the far-
reaching and destructive consequences of their
acts. I wish to assure you. that I am more
than ever (if it is possible for. me. to
be so) in absolute accord with the great
principles for which Fisk University stands,
which principles are solely responsible for
her leadership among similar educational
institutions throughout this Southland. I
am in sympathy and hearty accord with
your determination to perpetuate these
principles. It was because of the lofty ideals,
its thorough training in intellectual and moral
excellence, that I selected Fisk University as

the place for my daughters education. I can-

not tell you how deeply I regretted her ill-
advised departure. Had I one-tenth the in-
formation as to the cause of her urgent tele-
gram for transportation home as I have now,
she would have remained. I trust, however,
that her place at Fisk will be reserved for her
in October, 1925, for she shall return. She
is completing the term at Daytona Cookman
Collegiate Institute, Daytona, Florida. It is
my earnest hope that you may not falter or
in the least become discouraged in upholding:
and perpetuating the Fisk standard, in doing
which I am sure you shall have the endorse-
mentthe God-speed of all right-thinking
patrons and friends of Fiskthe Souths pre-
mier institution for the higher education of
the Negro,

You are fighting for a righteous cause; you
are defending the institution against insub-
ordination, student rule, control of dictation,
whichever designation seems most appliable
but either of which means disaster. ~

Finally, I would commend for your encour-
agement at this time a perusal or recollection
of Rudyard Kiplings If.

me toh OURS very, truly,.<., 43
(Signed) J. A. BUTLER. .
(J. A. Butler, M.D., office 1404 1-2 Central
Ave.; residence 1312 Marion St., Tampa, Flor-
ida.) Ae ay oy
- Father of a student.
7
709 N. Central Ave., Okmulgee, Okla,
February 21, 1925.

Dr. F. A. McKenzie,
Fisk University,
Nashville, Tenn.,

Dear Dr. McKenzie:

I did not realize just how serious the out-
break among the students was, until I re-
ceived clippings and letters from Tennessee
friends some days ago.

I was terribly upset and very much grieved
to think that at this time of all others in the
history of the school, a riot should occur. At
this time-when a million-dollar endowment
had been completed. At this timewhen
plans for enlarging the plant had been sub-
mitted. At this timewhen the thing that

the founders, faculty and all true-hearted
alumni and former students had prayed for
had been consummated: viz., recognition as
a class A college.

I have been hearing from time to time dur-
ing the last few years that many of the. stu-
dents who were coming did not have the Fisk
spirit; that they were restless and did not take
kindly to such restraint and discipline as was
necessary to develop in them the highest
ideals of manhood and womanhood. I had
been wondering if they were worthy of the
many advantages coming to them; if they
would prove in after life a credit to their
Alma: Mater.

The outbreak of February 4, answers. in
thundering tones, No \

I was afraid you might become discouraged
or disgusted and resign just at.a time when
no living man can do for the school what you
through Gods help ,can do. . No living man
has the vision for this particular school as
you have it.

Let me digress here, to say that whatever
of good I have been enabled to accomplish
in life, whatever principles of noble woman-
hood have. been inculeated in my daughter,

Elaine Nixon Busch, have been in a very large

measure due to the training and high ideals
we received while in Fisk.

8

Last Sunday morning my pastor in his ser-
mon told the story of Gideon and the reduc-
tion of his army in order that he might over-
come the Midianites. You know the story.
It came to me, Dr. McKenzie, that his mes-
sage was given to me to- give to you. Be
strong! | Bel/steadfast! Know that there are
still throughout the length and breadth of this
country the faithful *three hundred who are
with you and the principles for which you are
fighting. The class of students who remained,
the class of students who will come will know
that law and order, and:good conduct will be
demanded of them. The parents who send
their children will know that the children are
getting the kind of training that will make
good men and women and law-abiding, citi-
zens of them. The agitators and knockers
will know that God is God and right is_right,
and right the day will win; and, for a while
at: least, they will stop.trying to misguide the
impressionable minds of the youth who come
to Fisk... A-greater Fisk will rise Phoenix-like
from the ashes of this disorder. and riot, be-
cause only!-the true and tried will remain;
only those desiring. good government will be:
sent, and they, working with you and faculty,
eg make the school what you would have it

e, isd c

I have not said one-tenth of what. Id like
to say, but I must stop,

Although this letter is rambling, take it for

the meaning in it, which is: that I am with

you first, last and always for upholding the
Fisk ideals. han te

God bless you. 2 bis lg
(Signed) MARIA BENSON NIXON, 88.
Ww. M. McGHEE

~ BRIGADIER GENERAL COMMANDING.

ind uxisdiction, State of South Carolina
UL R..K, of Py.
1107 Fairfield St.
Aiken, 8. C.
February 20, 1925.

President F. A. McKenzie,

Fisk University,

Nashville, Tenn.
Dear President McKenzie:

I recived the letter wind the statement

made to you from the different patrons of

Fisk University, expressing their views about
the trouble that occurred on the Fisk campus,
on the 4th inst. I regret very much that such
things did happen, and we are very much in
sympathy with you in the matter, knowing
how hot-headed students will get ,at times
especially when they are being influenced
from outside sources. Our attitude in the
matter was clearly shown, and demonstrated
to this extent, when our daughter Beatrice
wrote us about the affair we did not become
alarmed at all, but in order for us to get the
facts in the case Mrs. McGhee thought it best
to go and see for ourselves, and we would
know. This she did and to show that we had
no intentions of removing our daughter from
the school, for that reason my wife made it
convenient to see you and get your permis-
sion to let our daughter, Beatrice, come home
for a few days, as was advised by the doctor,
So as to avoid a nervous breakdown, and you
willingly gave your consent. She has re-
turned and will be on the campus ready to
continue her studies.

We indeed thank you so much for the con-
sideration. We are satisfied that conditions
in and around Fisk University will soon work
out all right. And for that very high stand-
' ing that you have placed Fisk University in
for the past ten years under your adminis-
tration, it will be impossible for your good
work to be blotted out.

This is shown very clearly in all Fisk stu-
dents. She cannot fail. While some of your
old students may not return this will be to
their detriment, and simply shows a severe

10

case of insubordination on the part of certain
students which in the end will prove to be a
very great hindrance to the students that re-
belled. So we are in deep sympathy with the
president in this trouble, and you also have
my prayers and hearty co-operation, and let
me remind you, sir, of the encouraging words
that were spoken to Elijah on one occasion,
Take courage, they that be for you are more
than them that be against you, and there are
thousands left yet who are clamoring for a
higher education such as is being taught at
Fisk University, and be ye assured that we
as parents are teaching our children to be law-
abiding and to always obey the laws of the
school.

With best wishes for your success, I am

Very respectfully,
(Signed) W. M. McGHEE.

718 Royal St.,
~ Baton Rouge, La.
February 22, 1925.

* Di SPAS McKenzie,

Dear Sir:

After reading the letters which you so kindly
sent me, I now realize the situation which ex-
isted at Fisk during the time of the students
rebellion.

Will you oblige me by permitting my son to
re-enter school next quarter, March 20, 1925?

Sincerely,

(Signed) W. H. PATTERSON.
Father of a student.

Li
hive HIGH scitaor, '
TREN H. PANES Ertheinales,
ed Bet OR, PeD.\Nov ty Box 85,
(ees os Sylva, Nn.
ibiirs suo gxisloReby'94p 1986

Dr. F. A. McKenzie,
Fisk University,
Nashville, Tenn:

My dear Sir:

Am quite gratified in reading some duplicate
letters of interest in regard to your school.

I am yearning deeply within, with intense
interest that co-operation and tranquility may
soon exist as in the past and the strides of
your great institution of learning may tend
onward and upward.

You have my deepest sympathy and co-
operation as far as it is within my power to
serve aS a patron.

My son did not leave your school with the
spirit of rebellion, but of fear. He wishes to
return. But I cannot eee him back until the
fall term.

J wish you to consider his application for
admission at this time.

Yours sincerely,

(Signed) JOHN H. DAVIS. ~

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P. Ss My permanent address is now Sylva,
N. C.. Ihave charge of the J ackson Co. Colored
Consolidated School here.

(Signed) JOHN H. DAVIS.
Father of a student.

12

607 E. Main. Ste,

si MoMinngille, Fenn.

5 Feb,.22, 1925.
Dr. F. A. McKenzie,
Nashville, Tenn. ..

Dear Dr. McKenzie:

The trouble at dear old Fisk has shocked
our little community to a great extent: We
are sorry as a whole. Of course individually
it has been grievous to several. It has hurt me
to think that there are those: who would try
to tear down the great work which you. have
pushed forward with Shc untiring energy.

Some of the students are being swayed by

others instead of following their own minds,

but I am glad that our girl, Miss Clara Young,
has had the courage to stand out and say the
actions of the students are wrong.

Somehow I dont feel that God will suffer
Fisk to lose its prestige. The work of the
Cravgths, White, Spence, Gates, Merrill,
Wrights, Morrows, down to the present admin.
istration with your co-workers cannot sink be-
low the horizon.

There are many who think you are Bich
We hope you will not give up the reins at this
time.

I hope the situation will clear up favor-
ably and all will yet be well. We have two
girls from our school planning to come to Fisk
next year. I am sure there are others making
plans likewise.

I pray Gods guidance and mercy and may

_ all yet be well for the Fisk we love.

Sincerely,
Bek aie BESSIE T. GWYNN, (11).

13
Kernes, Texas,
Route 38, Box 62
President McKenzie,

Dear Sir:

This will inform you that after reading your
communication of a few days ago, I found out
that you were right and I highly commend the
stand that you have taken to raise the Uni-
versity to a higher standard.

I am sending my boy back t ieeBool to stay
and abide by all rules and regulations of the
institution. The only reason he gave me: he
got scared. I want him to be loyal to the In-
stitution and take no part with rebels or dis-
gruntles.

You may rest Seaeae that you will ee my
support for the noble stand that you have
taken. :

Success for your future administration.

Your loyal friend,
(Signed) P, J. WALKER.

410 Brush St.,
Carbondale, Illinois,
Feb. 22, 1925.

Dr. F. A. McKenzie,
Fisk University, A
Nashville, Tenn.

Dear. Dr. McKenzie:

I have read with much concern of the dis-
turbance at Fisk this school year. Because of
my attitude toward the University. and your
principles which I believe, on the whole, to be
adequate and right, . I welcomed your letter of
recent date.

Certainly I regret the eT Ge but ap-
\preciate the fact that out of it shall come the
revelation of. the finer. motives for which you
stand.

Count on me, Sir, as a stand-patter FOF the
school.

+ Yours truly,
(Signed) CHAS. O. ROGERS, 24.
14

x
aS

Box 156,
Marshall, Texas,
Feb. 22, 1925.

President F. t MeKenzie,
Fisk University,
Nashville, Tenn.

My dear Sir:

The letter of Miss Dora A. Scribner, to hand,
and contents noted. I was out. of the city, as
I am principal of a school, when the Jetter
came, I have read, and reread, the general
statement made by you. I indorse your:action
in full. As I see it you are to dear old Fisk
what President A. Jackson was to South Car-
olina, when she passed the Nullification Ordi-
nance. President Jackson told the people that
it was his duty to enforce the laws of the
Union, and this he intended to do at any cost.

After having received the telephone message
from Livingstone Hall, I am proud, sir, your
military instinct was roused, and that you
said the laws of old Fisk must be obeyed, and.
that you intended to stop the riot at: any cost.
and did ~e it.

Dei irae succeeds like TP sda L am gi
ak
to note that the school is getting back to oaks

maley.

Vive le President McKenzie. Vive la Alma

Mater.
{ Very sincerely yours,

(Signed) N. T. MITCHELL, 83.

5
Tillotson College,
Austin, Texas,
February 22, 1925.

Pres. F. A. McKenzie,
Fisk University,
Nashville, Tenn.

Dear Dr. Melonzie:

I wish to thank you fr the acinar let-
ter and a copy of the chapel talk you sent which
with the clippings from the Tennessee paper
that my son sent made me understand the
situation more clearly.

It is to be regretted that students in a school
with such advantages as Fisk would commit
such lawless acts.

The rules and regulations of Fisk are en-

tirely satisfactory to me, and those who are
not satisfied should go elsewhere. I am glad
- my son has returned to school and T hope he
will always remain loyal.

The Great God has a motive for cprkscade
all of his acts. In this instance: his motive
was to remove all of the undesirable students.
I hope to have a daughter under your admin-
istration very soon.

With my sympathy, I hope for your success.

Very sincerely yours,
(Signed) MRS. L. STANLEY.

16

i

cerned.

Office of

MRS. MARY N. JONES,

Grand Worthy Counselor,
efeder: of; Galanthe, Knights of Pythias,
as Jurisdiction of Georgia.

1636 Fifteenth Sinect,

edited Augusta, Ga.
February 20, Aes

Paring dibcdis MeBarinlil, tacts. tats #
Risk (University, 9(}- ywivouiesh
Nashville, Tenn.

Dear, Sir:

~our averveKta of! the 13th: inst.: received
and read with care. At the end I found no
suggestion made for a reply, but I feel that it
would be.a lack of courtesy, on my part, to
remain silent. at such a crucial moment. I
had-read of the catastrophe before; but I had
read nothing coming from such a reliable
source as this.

-I-can only say that _I.am sorry; I am deeply
grieved; adequate words, are not at my com-
mand with which to express the deep feeling
that envelops my soul and body; and my head
is bowed as with | a huge force pressing it
down.

I sympathize with you and with all con-
I believe, with my whole heart, that
you did what you thought was best in the
crisis. God only knows what is best at all
times. I trust God will continue to lead and
guide you and that all will be well in the end.

I am as ever yours,

(Signed MARY K. COOK, N. 11.

VW
A .siiio Salina, Kansas,
February.24, 1925.

Dear Professor :
Yours to hand, contents noted with care.

I regret very much to hear of the situation
at the university, the boys had become re-
bellious, and destroying the property of the
school. There was not any other course for,
you but the one you did take.

I do hope it will be settled without serious
damage to the school.. I endorse your course.

If anyone had used their influence in work-
ing the students up to such a spirit and caused
them to rebel against the school administra-
tion, he or she was absolutely wrong. From a
letter I received a few days before I received
yours, I think I see who it is that is largely to
blame for the trouble.

I would be glad to hear from you soon in

regard to the situation. You have my sym-
pathy and best wishes. iw DE

Yours truly,
(Signed) JAMES DePRIEST, Ne aks
P. S.It does, not matter what their griev-
ance was, they are not justified in destroying

the school PEAR EHS
om Se *

i

. not true to fact.

8203 12th St.,
Meridian, Miss.,
Feb. 24, 1925.

Dear Miss Scribner:

I apppreciate so much the information
given in your letter regarding. the real facts
in the case about Fisk. Somehow I just
couldnt believe the facts as given by the
newspapers.

4 give, my note of confidence in Dr. Mc-
Kenzie and in speaking for myself I can say
that I have always believed in him.

I was fortunate in being able to get a copy
of the Nashville Globe and I decided that
from the account given, all statements were
So many questions have
come to mind since the outburst that I seem
to be able to think of nothing else but seek
to find answers.

It seems to me that no person of intelli-
gence would raise his voice against Dr. Me-
Kenzie and the work he has done for the
cause of higher education among my people.
I have only words of praise and gommenda
tion for him.

I shall always oppose any propaganda used
against Fisk and those who have affairs in
charge. Even though I regret that such vio-
lence was used in the outbreak, I feel that it
can quickly be forgotten. Remembering that
such set-backs are only temporary, I take

* hope.

The majority of the members of the great
Fisk family are behind the present administra-
tion. The misguided are in the minority.

) Yours truly,
(Signed) H. N. MONTGOMERY, 20.

19
syeenee (nations. Ala.
March, 2, 4P25.

Dyk. Ap McKenzie,
Fisk U nivrsity, seek
Nashville, Tenn. us

\

Dear Dr. McKenzie:

I regretted very feat to hear of the trou-
ble you have had at Fisk. Immediately after
the outbreak, I relied on my daughter for in-
formation concerning it. I did not give her
any advice as to how she should act during the
disturbance. She stood with the Administra-
tion and I heartily endorse her actions and
those of any other girl in Jubilee Hall who
stood with the Administration.

The outbreak, the spirit of the men who
instigated it, and the results which followed,
are to be greatly regretted, but as regrettable
as these are, it would have been better for
you to have stopped it as you did rather than
to have it reach Jubilee Hall. Who could say
what would have happened or what would not
have happened had that rebellious crowd gone
into Jubilee Hall after ten oclock at night
doors open, lights out, and any and all the
boys who wanted to, go into Jubilee Hall, thus
leaving the girls with no other protection than
a mob spirit. Let us thank God that they
did not get to Jubilee Hall.

You have my sympathy, and I think with
the dissatisfied element removed, Fisk will
move on as rapidly as it did before.

Very respectfully yours, .

(Signed) L. J. WATKINS, 93.
(Father of a student.)

20

.}_-___.+-

ing about?

Hidelt & to th Neue Aisdeigeia Brae 6g iy
Fisk Graduate and published i in The at

American and the Guard (Texas).

Be! shall appreciate very eh pee you 1 re-

lease the following article to all members of.
your association, I.am far, from being a. man
of money, but. if there are any,. reasonable

changes for this BOTYACR: I shall; be, eld to. pay:

To: Every Piskite: to Every Colored Perduis of

America:

A number. of years nee, the Ca al Asso-
ciation for the advancement. of colored. people
was organized for _a number of. specific pur-
poses, which we are very well acquainted. with.

One of the greatest fights being waged by
the N. A. A. C. P. toward the realization of
its aims has been and is its fight against mob
violence and lynching. The best men of both
the black and white races of our country have

_ lined up in support of this great organiza-

tion because of its aims; aims which would be
not only for the benefit of colored America,
out for all America. These men have fought
mob violence and are still fighting it. The
Dyer Anti-Lynching Bill gives evidence of
what the best whites think about mob violence

and the support it has received from the col- .

ored people, certainly expresses their view,
All of us are in agreement when it comes to the

question of the suppression of mob violence

and lynching, but what are we doing to help
those who are fighting it? Each has his way
of rendering this co-operation. Some give
money, some give moral Support and some give
active service. Any one of the three is as
important as the other. The three must go
together or the battle is lost. All great and
relatively permanent changes in history bear
this out. All of us know this thoroughly.

Now I come to the point which I am con-
vinced is the point which all of us must up-
hold and actively support, regardless as to
whether we are giving our money, our moral
support or our active service. We, ourselves,
must exert every ounce of mental, physical
and moral energy within our bodies and souls
to prevent mob violence among ourselves.
What am I talking about? Just go back to
June 2, 1924 at 8:00 P.M.to Fisk Univer-
sityto Memorial Chapeland you will have
the answer to the question, What am I talk-
If you dont know, it will pay

21
you to find out what happened then. Let it
be enough for me to say that an address was
supposed, to have. been given by one of our best
educated. men, but instead. we heard a cunning,

ill-timed talk charged to the brim with true or
false statements, which would prey upon the

weak and radical-tending minds of certain stu-
dents and henchmen, who were to: go forth

and declare to the world that the deliverer
What was the result of that

was at hand.
night of June 2, 1924, at Fisk University?
The result; or the beginning of the result, took
place several days agoat Fiska disgrace
to the students of Fiskto clear-minded col-
ored students everywhereto those men and
women, black and white, who are continually
fighting mob violence. You know what hap-
pened several days ago at Fisk. It was pub-
lished by the white paperson the front page.
Students of an institution of higher? learning
students who really condemn mob violence
students who are supposed to be far enough
advanced to think for themselves are reported
to have taken part in a mob demonstration
to have permitted their minds and bodies to
become poisoned by henchmen working for
the power behind the throne, who now sits
comfortably in his home, while some little
weak-minded students sit in jail. Wake up stu-
dents of. Fiskcolored students everywhere
colored men and women everywherefor the
sake of the race and its advancement dont al-
low your minds to fall prey to the wiles and
radicalism of those of our group who. are
supposed to. be leaders.
yourselves, Dont be a subscriber to those

false ideals being broadcasted by certain peo-

ple through their henchmenthe false ideals
that put Russia in the condition which it is
in today. Dont put to naught, by participat-
ing in mob demonstrations, the fight good men
of our race and good men of the whites are
fighting. If you have a fight to make, fight
it out like intelligent, clear-minded mennot
like ignorant, weak- minded, bloodthirsty. reds.
If you dont, youre sure to bring destruction
upon all of us. I repeat, for the:sake of the
race and: its advancement, dont fall prey to
that. radicalism. coming. from a certain: source
which you know as well:as I do.

I guess. you wonder. why I write this. Tis
because I am, a -Fiskitea graduate of 1924
and uncompromisingly against mob demonstra-
tions, and the causes, by all, people at all times.
I know, what Fisk ,has come through during
the past, ten or fifteen, yearsin fact,. since
its, beginningand I know it: now has a mil-
lion dollar endowment | fund.

22

Think it out for |

ol realize | also

that no man is capable of taking an institu-
tion which is all but sucked-in by debt and
within the short space of ten years bless it
with an endowment fund of one million dol-
lars and at the same time run things 100 per
cent according to the wishes of all people. In-
finite power is necessary for the accomplish-
ment of this and no maneven though cer-
tain people think certain men should have it;
has infinite power. Mans mind is finite and
must be satisfied swith! finite accomplishments.
Therefore, Fiskites, and all colored men and
women, let us rejoice over the Million Dol-
lars and, see, Batt the MEX few years, will
bring. atiss a

WILBUR: TARVER, 22
4 Box. 152, Parmele, N. C.

\

Savannah, Ga.,
February 22, 1925.

My dear Miss Scribner:

oy was very glad to receive your letter giv-
ing the desired information that all Persuns
related to Fisk waited Kes hear.

re have regretted habe our family affairs had
to come to the public in such a manner.

I eavipsiiy. trust that in a very: short. time,
conditions will be:adjusted to the satisfaction
of all concerned and: hehe: the union will be
stronger.

Remniber? me to. all and! remember I am
for Fisk in storm: as well as in peace, or even
moreso: There is:always:a time to. show our
love and appreciationif not in time of
trouble, when?

Very sincerely,

ge CORNELIA 6: McDOWELL,
(H. Ec. 15)

ao
*
%

ei ce I dlesti Ne Ge:
February 20, LORE fe

My dear Miss Scribner:

We only heard, imroiigh! your: opti of the
sad and serious condition of affairs in and
at. Fisk... Our. hearts, are filled with sorrow.

(oy

Fifty-two years ag, 1878, I entered our
Dear Old Fisk, then in the soldiers barracks.
I selected Fisk because I desired to attend
a school whose motto was, as I understood
it: Let all things be done decently and in
order. If I had desired it, I am sure, I could
have secured a free scholarship in a state
school, university so-called. But when I heard
of the rowdyism, near-riot condition there,
though not a professing Christian then, Fisk
was my choice. |

We, my wife and I, have. no respect, (and
this was our, attitude throughout.our student
life in. Fisk), for. young. men or. women who
enter Fisk or any other. school, knowing. the
rules and regulations, and then welt dis-
regard or disobey them.: Lt

The negro s best asset in the present age is
found in law and order based on Christian
Love. As to: Before Idbe:a slave, we re-
joice that we are accounted worthy to be: the
bond-slaves of our Master, Jesus Christ.)

+ Assuring you that we support President Mc-
Kerizies. administration; because we believe it
is what owr and all. a ae: tos

We are, J
om _Faithfully, yours,

(Fiene B. a8 and MRS, OUSLEY, oP & 83.

24

' Joseph: Keasby Brick School,
8 Bricks, North Carolina,
Berney, a 1926.

Miss. D: a Seribmer, 3
Fisk. ag a ;
Nashniles Tenn.

Dear Miss! Scribner:

_ We: are. aitved over nha ivan at Fisk
but are not downhearted. Our. confidence in
Dr... McKenzies. administration is, immeasur-
ably strengthened. BRS

We are looking toa greater FISK, There is
still. rapture of the forward view.
oak outs sincerely,

Sianed) JOHN H. GORDON 16,
JULIA I. GORDON hr
Box 156, Marshall, Texas,
February 28, 1925.

f
Miss Dora A. Scribner,
Fisk University,
Nashville, Tenn.

Dear Friend:

I do not believe there is a colored man liv-
ing that could have done for dear old Fisk
what President McKenzie has done. All honor
to him, and for himself and Fisk, he is build-
ing a monument more durable than bronze,
and more sublime than the regal elevation of
the pyramids, which neither the change of
seasons or the flight of time will be able to
destroy.

I am preaching and teaching, and as a result
I.come in: contact with the agitator and the
place-hunter,, ; ;,There.was a man here that
wanted, the place that' I hold. When he had
been in the community, I could tell it from
the action of some of the students. . Some of
the students disobeyed the rules of the school.
I attempted to counsel them. They would not
heed my advice. I suspended them at once.
A jumping or a fence-breaking. cow. will ruin
a herd. President McKenzie has more pa-
tience than I have: However, he was trying
to save those that knew not what they did.
There is a time with my group: when forbear-
ance ceases to be a virtue. Yes, w will stand
by the president. The poet says: _

Be still, sad heart, and cease repining, . ae
Behind the cloud is the sun still eckaae esate

This very upheaval may bring into lime-
Hatt the agitators, and the world may get
to see the ones that -have been throwing the
rocks. and hiding their. hands.

The Negro college is on trial. And in the
language of the immortal Lincoln It will not
do to trade horses while we are crossing a
stream.

This bunch of disgruntled and dissatisfied
would-be leaders has had a movement on some
time to discredit the work of President Mc-
Kenzie. The Lord is not in their plan. A
greater Fisk will come forth. The president

has been weighed in the balances, and not |

found wanting. The war is on, fight to a
finish, pay but little attention to flags of
truce and gifts, for the reason they may con-
tain a Trojan horse.

I am a 100 per cent Fiskite. If you think I
can serve the cause in any way, command me.

Sincerely yours,
(Signed) NELSON T. MITCHELL, 83.
26

ilies ae

ny -" February 7, 1925.
Dear Dr. /MeHedzite

I was particularly solicitous when I. read
of the latest.crisis at Fisk. .I was afraid that
under the stress of the moment you might
repudiate all of your good endeavors and curse
the day that you ever came to Fisk. I was
very much relieved when I read your state-
ment to the press still making in that hour
of trial, a plea for Negro education. It takes
a magnanimous soul to plead for those who
have their sabers drawn and swords un-
sheathed ready to do violence not only to the
soul but. even to the body. Certainly you
have made yourself a martyr for Negro educa-
tion and you drink the bitter dregs of the
cup from which most of us are unable to
drink. Whether I always agree with your
method or not I do agree. with your resolute
purpose and I shall never be guilty of un-
friendly criticism. In these critical hours
which try the.souls of men you have my. deep-
est sympathy which I know that I can give.

Yours sincerely,

T. THOMAS WARREN, 21:

27
Fayette County Training School,
Somerville, Tenn.,
March 2, 1925.

Dr. F. A. McKenzie,
Nashville, Tenn.
Dear Dr. McKenzie:

I have just now been able to understand the
cause of the recent disturbance at Fisk. I
feel compelled to offer you my sympathy.

4

My daughter, Margaret, who had entered
- her. second year at Fisk when she had to come
home on account of the illness which termi-
nated in our great loss of her; loved Fisk.
The principles it stood for, the kindness of
her teachers, especially Miss Cook, and Dr.
Spencers untiring - efforts to help her, ine
ean never forget.

When we sent our children to Fisk we felt
that we knew what Fisk stood for in the de-
velopment of a splendid class. of Christian
men and women whom the race needs. If stu-
dents fail, it is not because. Fisk. does not. put
before them high ideals of education, culsure
and refinement.

Your kindness and interest in my little son,
when he was there (for he was very young),
his father and I appreciate. It is hard for

youth to understand why teachers and parents

have to set a standard for them to go by.
It is.no uncommon thing for leaders to be
misunderstood and misquoted.

It is no uncommon thing for students to be

misled, and grasp at shining air bubbles that
burst when touched.

We as leaders are not infallible but I am
certain that no man in your position, ap-
_ proached properly, will fail to give a reason-
able hearing to a matter presented properly.

I regret that the young men who stepped
aside, had not more experience with the prob-
lems of their parents. I regret that they do
not know human nature.

The trouble with most schools is timidity

in the handling of socializing. Study and so-
cializing were not meant to go together.

Sometimes our daughters are of a serious
temperament, and school life to them means
much, others have to be taught that Life is
real and Life is earnest.

28

Fisk has always been to my mind the ideal
school for the chosen few of the race who.
might be able to meet the requirements. It
does not deserve to be viciously attacked. It
does not deserve to be misrepresented. Its in-
fluence over the race has been too far-reaching
and of too long standing.

It is the duty of every parent to support
Fisk who ever sent a child there, and who
has ever been there to see the painstaking
care of those in charge.

Parents ifiesto realize that their children are
not free from mistakes and not uphold them
in wrong but line them up to be obedient, re-
spectful and studious, and if they are that,
seldom will any trouble arise that cannot be
amicably adjusted. pus

I write this because I feel it my duty to
one who was very kind to my children at:Fisk
University, and I am certain that in order to
develop proper leaders of the race out of

our pupils, parents, teachers and pupils must

work together.

God never puts on us more than we can
bear. When one is sure that he is right, he
can only go ahead, and the peace of God
which passeth all understanding will keep
you in all your ways.

Very sincerely,

(Signed) MRS. W. P. WARE,
\ ; Jeanes Supervisor.
Mother of two former students,
ORC Y Tes Tenn.

29
Agnes Irwin School,
Lancaster, Ky.,
Hoch March 2, L925:
Dr. F. A. McKenzie,
Fisk University.

My dear Dr. McKenzie and to. whom it may
concern:

The seriousness of the situation at Fisk
was called to my attention by an article in
the Courier-Journal.

Dr. McKenzie, please accept my sympathy
for your distress, and the seeming lack of
gratitude on the part of those whom you are
trying to help most:

As to the general situation, it appears to
me that the Negro is on trial as never before
to prove himself capable and deserving of
the best in education. Having been given a
million dollars for the best academic instruc-
tion, the younger generation are about to
prove that the confidence expressed thereby
was misplaced. It therefore devolves upon
Fisks thousand alumni to prove themselves
by rallying to Dr. McKenzies support, and
from what I know of them I believe they will
do so.

reat information on the situation, especi-
ally as to the thinking of the alumni, will
be gladly received. In all things you may
count on my heartiest sympathy and co-opera-
tion.

Yours for the cause,
(Signed) SARAH E. WITHERS, 08.

30

ter with others. of us of the alumni.

STATE OF ILLINOIS

Division of Insurance

Springfield, Illinois,
February 20, 1925.

Prof. Dora A. Scribner,
Fisk University,
Nashville, Tenn.

Dear Miss Scribner:

Have just finished reading your letter en-
closed, with the statement of the President,
sent from the Presidents office. How helpful
it is at this time, as-you were always a help
and strength to us.all.. Am very much
tempted to run down and talk to you for a
minute, for if I could get away at this time
conveniently, that is what I would like to do.

So much has been said, and so much is
at stake that to see you, Miss Parmenter, and
Miss Cook would help me so much.

People are changing so and the young peo-
ple are so disappointed in the changes, that
they can not adjust themselves happily to con-
ditions. This is true North as well as South.
It is true of the office of the Division of In-.
surance at, the. Capitol Building here where
I am beginning my ninth year the first of
March. The spirit in here has changed very
much since I have been here. People in so
many places seem to have lost sight of their
ideals.

Thank you ier sharing that beautiful let-
Presi-
dent McKenzie I do not know, only to meet.
I am continuing to pray for Fisk during this
crisis and for you and the others there that
we love so dearly, and who have helped to
shape the good in us for life and for ser-
vice.

Very sincerly,

(Signed) ALICE WILLIAMS TABORN, Col.,
710.
904 S. College St., Springfield, Illinois.

-

31
-
|
THE GALVESTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS: :
West District Gain: i di |
W.N. Cummings, Princip ort
1828 ies Ky,
Galveston, Texas,
es March 4, 1925.
Dr. F. A. MeKenzie, .. bata
President, Fisk bioped a
Be Tenn. PES
Dear Dr. McKenzie:
I hope that the higher powers will uphold
you in your stand for moral Se
You have my full sympathy.
Yours very sige
(Signed) W. N. CUMMINGS, N., "82.
)

82

392 S. Lauderdale St.,
Memphis, Tenn.,.
March 4, 1925

Dr. F, A. McKenzie, __
President of Fisk University.

Dear Friend:

I have-received.a letter from Miss Scribner,
also a pamphlet concerning the recent trouble
at Fisk. I regret very much that such an
affair was possible at our great University.
I love the institution, and hope nothing has,
or ever shall happen to hinder its progress.

Fret not. thyself because of evil-doers,
Delight thyself also in the Lord, and he shall
give thee the desires of thine heart. __Bible.

~ You have my synipathy and prayer that the

trouble may be amicably adjusted, and no

harm. may come to the University because of

it. ine
"Very truly,

. Yours for success of Fisk,
(Signed) v W. BROUGHTON,

33
Columbia, Tenn.,
March 4, 1925.

Prof. F. A. McKenzie.

Dear Sir:

I was very glad to get the leaflet you sent
me, giving the opinions of Alumni and patrons
in regard to the recent uprising at the Uni-
versity.

It is very gratifying to the friends of higher
education among the Negroes to know that
those who have enjoyed the advantages of
Fisk,-so heartily support you in your efforts
to maintain high ideals and strict discipline.

Some might say that it would have been
better for you to have taken the offensive
earlier in the session and dismissed the lead-
ers of the rebellion before it made such prog-
ress; but I'think you acted wisely in permit-
ting matters to come to a head.

This has been a very trying experience for

you, but we are warned. that: They who -

would live godly in as present world will
suffer persecution.

Confident of your vith Gxt by the Board
of Trustees, and in the ultimate re- establish-
ment of authority at the University, I remain,

Your friend,

(Signed) D. D. LITTLE.

34

~

Extract from Letter of Mrs. Helen Ricks Lon-
* don, 14, to Miss Scribner.

March 2, 1925.

You know how proud I am of Fisk and its
ideals, and how Ive always appreciated the

* sacrifices that have made it the wonderful

institution it is,it must always be.

I am praying it will all come right. It will

For right. prevails.

Understand my genuine ee and devo-
tion to its interests.

Sincerely,

(Signed) HELEN RICKS LONDON,

35
THE GALVESTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

East District School
H. T. Davis, Principal.

Galveston, Texas,
March 2, 1925. \

Dr. F. A, McKenzie,
President, Fisk University, :
Nashville, Tenn.

My dear Dr. McKenzie:

I am always for law and order. I regard
you and the faculty at Fisk as the regularly .
constituted authorities for the preservation
and enforcement of law and order at Fisk.
Whatever grievances, imaginary or otherwise,
those who come under your authority may
have, these ai ewe ee should be sien ina
regular, lawful way.

I was successful in having ma enta keep two
students at Fisk until we could hear from
you. You shall have my support until I am
convinced you and the faculty are wrong.
Students have no right to take matters of
this kind in their hands tosettle. That is for
the faculty and the Board of Trustees to-do,
and I am reasonably certain that a just com-
plaint will be listened to and settled right.

Yours sincerely,

(Signed) H. T. DAVIS, 96,
Principal, East District School.

36

Seeniamanaiiiiie haat

Bd voy [it South moun iby, 3 Mev
OC ake ody os gir Re tg ae 1925,

Miss Dora. erindcrels ti ueibiasw a ots
FiskoUniversityy sd Ratti) bus solg sa} of bad
Nashville, Terin.: favasH to mobenizl oft to

My dear Miss, Seribner:

Your letter dated the 14, 1925, is ad
I note. what, you haye - to, say,., Fa was once. a
student at Fisk myself, as you,no. doubt will
remember, and of course I am somewhat con-
versant with the, moods. of our people.

I had heard something, of the administra-
tion at Fisk before. It seems that some of
the alumni are not satisfied with some of the
things that are going on there, or have been
done. I also saw in the daily paper here in
Sioux City, an account of the trouble that you
were having.

You may be assured that my heart goes out
in deep sympathy for those of you who have
given your all for the uplift of our people,
for what more can a man do than to give his
life for you? If the students would conserve
some of that energy that they are using to
fight some of their enemies, perhaps it would
be more effective. We oftentimes treat those
who love us by far worse than we do those
that hate us.

I would not think much of the President if
he had no ideas of his own. Some seem to
complain because the conditions are not as
they were forty years ago; they even tell us
that this old world is a much different thing
from what it used to be.

I am a very little man and I know that 1
do not know as much as some of the people
who are making such a great furore. But I
refuse to follow them, for I must be shown
that you mean to do, or have done with evil
intent, the things that have been charged. Of
course, perhaps you have done things that
were not to the liking of some of our finer
selves, but we often unintentionally offend the
other fellow. I think that some things are
real childish, and certainly not serious enough
to wreck Fisk for, to say the least. I have a
little boy not quite two years old and he asks
me every evening when I come home from

OT
work to build him a house up to the sky, as I
have taught him to say, and before I have
the blocks that high he knocks it down; so
you may know that I must grow very 1m-

patient. So you must continue until you have |

built Fisk University up to the sky. Dont
give up the ship, for you will show that you
are a weakling if you dos he that puts his

hand to the plow and turns back is not worthy |

of the Kingdom of Heaven, so I'am told.

Do not let the students run the University,
for if you do we do not need you.

So with malice toward none and with char-

ity for all, let us strive to bind up the wounds
of our dear Alma Mater.

Yours very truly,
(Signed) THOMAS W. STEWART, 711.

38 .

DOUGLASS HIGH SCHOOL
Mounds, Illinois :

4

March 8, 1925.

President F. A. McKenzie,

Fisk University,
Nashville, Tenn.

Dear Doctor McKenzie:

Quite recently I heard and read something
about the trouble at Fisk. My information at
this time is very meager. However, I think
I can see thru it all.

I have this to say: When I was in dear
old Fisk I could understand your high ideals
even if I did fail to measure up at times. I
knew that your one great aim was to raise the
University to its highest possible attainment. |
I felt that. the needs of the University re-
quired your guidance in your own way. It is
my belief that you are as true-hearted and
whole-hearted as a man can be. I regret that
some people do not understand you.
wholly understood in his greatest efforts?
You are a real friend to the needy and I do
not think a student should go to Fisk who
does not need. You make everything plain
enough to all students who enter, therefore
they are wrong who refused your guidance.
If I had sons and daughters I would send all
of them to Fisk, for Fisk stands for the high-
est ideals. You are my ideal president, Dr.
McKenzie.

Best wishes for your continued success, I
am,

Very truly yours,
(Signed) C. W. RANSOM, 21.

39

Who is |
604 N. Kelham St.,
Oklahoma City, Okla.,
March 2, 1925.

Dr. F. A. McKenzie,
Fisk University, poin 22aipuod
Nashville, Tenn. fo 7

Dear, President McKenzie:

It has teek my whole determination to
write you since the outbreak of the student-
body there, for I have an interest. over there,
but have been listening with hope to hear that
the students had returned as they considered
what they were losing:S: Now I trust that
everything is going. well again. ae

I was so sorry to know that inet a few
smart boys wanted to have things their way
in the administration of the school, and caused
all of this shame and disgrace to come upon
such a high and noble University. as. Fisk.
And here, Dr. McKenzie, rest assured that you
have our co-operation and sympathy.

I have been busy writing my boy letters of
consolation and instruction as all parents
should. do. .-Home training means much to
our boys and girls; home is the place to shape
the destiny of our children, for as they are at
home, so they go out from home.

I was on the campus at Fisk dant: May and
was, greatly enthused, Everything was fine.
I certainly enjoyed my short visit there and
was treated with great courtesy by the Presi-
dent and faculty.

So let us impress upon you our congratula-
tions in your firm stand for the administra-
tion of Fisk University.

Yours truly, .

(Signed) MR. and MRS. ABRAHAM. WARD
(parents of a student).
R. 10, Box 155. er alae

P.S.: We are ene to know that Herod
was so much for the principles of right that
(as he wrote us) in spite of the walk-out of
students, he remained in school. We feel
proud of him.

40

W. A. RAYFIELD & CO.,
Architects

Birmingham, Ala.,
March 2, 1925.

Dr. F. A. McKenzie,
Fisk University,
Nashville, Tenn.

Dear Dr. McKenzie:

I have been reading-with much interest the
several reports about the disturbance at, Fisk.
I am glad to know that things are shaping
themselves in better form for a greater Fisk.
As a teacher for eight years: at Tuskegee
Institute, I know what it means by discipline
and leader for young men and women. While
I am a graduate of Howard University, there
has always been a sympathy for Fisk and At-
lanta, and the stand you took for order and
principles of Fisk was correct. My daughter
would have been in Fisk today if there had
been a place for her in your institution, and
we both (Mrs. Rayfield and myself) have re-
gretted many times that the school was
filled, and we sent her elsewhere. Fisk stands
for Christian principles and is so well located
for our people in the South. |

Allow us to extend to you our co-operation
in your effort to bring the great principles of
Fisk as you see them. We are with you, and
if we can be of any help to you, call on us.

With our best wishes for your position,

Yours very truly,

(Signed) W. A. RAYFIELD,
Architect.
(Graduate of Howard University.)

41
Spelman College,
Atlanta, Ga.,
March 2, 1925.

My dear Dr. McKenzie:

Just a line from a graduate to express to
you my deepest regret in the very unfortu-
nate affair at Fisk. Congratulations to the

students who had the manhood and woman-
hood to stay at their posts.

I heartily approve of the administration and
the discipline it stands for. May God give you
the courage and fortitude to carry on the
great work you planned.

Very sincerely yours,

(Signed)
MRS. MADELINE SMITH DAVIS, 14.

42

Si thx

er ne ee ee ee

| {

a ae ae

FISK SUPPORTERS PROPERTY BURNED

Evidence Found of Oiled Rags in Destroyed

_ Automobile 32

Dr.o We Wha@umlin, AES Te US who
supported the faculty of Fisk University at
a public mass meeting held following a strike
of students at the school, reported this morn-
ing that another attempt had been made to
burn him. out? when his automobile and
garage, were destroyed by fire at 3 0clock
this morning: He resides at 1710 Jefferson
Street. Gel .

. Dr. Sumlin said he returned from a call at
12:30 oclock and put his car in the garage.

_ About 8 oclock he was awakened by smoke

entering the house. He said he made an in-
vestigation and found traces of oiled rags

: that had been thrown in his ear and ignited.

Directly. after Dr, sid issued a state-
ment. censuring the striking students of Fisk
for their action the first attempt was made
to burn his home. The fire was extinguished,
however, before any appreniable damage was
done. 5

The oinverads M said the diwaiapts to fire his
property had not changed his attitude and
that now he was just as much for what was
right as at first.

pape Neshivil le: Banner; Feb. 21, 1925).

43
UPHOLDS PRESIDENT OF FISK
UNIVERSITY

Dr. W. F. Waters Issues Statement Regarding
_ Rebellion at Institution

, The following statement with respect to the
recent student rebellion at Fisk University,
has been issued by Dr. W. F. Waters, former
secretary of the Rock City Academy of Medi-
cine, and himself a graduate of three colleges.

Since the Fisk rebellion, resulting in the
destruction of property belonging to the uni-
versity, and threats and attempted intimida-

tion against a citizen, and destruction of

property belonging to him, because of. his
stand in defense of law and order, I have held
my peace though conscious of the fact that it
was my duty to speak out. But desiring to
be perfectly fair to all and believing that pub-
lie statements should be made after due de-
liberation, and considerately, dispassionately
and without prejudice, I thought that until
the fire of passion and the whirlwind of con-
fusion which swept before the cave in which
the man was secluded the still voice of rea-
son would not be heard.

The Fisk incident has been much dis-
cussed both pro-and con and many causes
given of the trouble. But so far as I know
the one deep and underlying cause of the
trouble at Fisk has not been dealt with. It
is this: The deep undercurrents of the sea
of humanity, as manifested by the tendencies
of the times, that steadily and progressively
move on toward universal democracy. Stu-
dents of affairs must take knowledge of these
currents and tendencies. Autocrats in all
forms of government, whether in church,
schools, or state, cannot longer permanently
existand not even can an autocratic family
government be peacefully maintained to-
day. The recognition of and insistence upon
the principle basic of governments that they
derive their just powers from the consent of
the government today both unsatisfactory and
unstable. Students of universities are no ex-
ceptions in this respect to humanity outside
these institutions, and while the citizens not
in school insist that taxation without repre-
sentation is tyranny, those within schools to-
day think that education without representa-
tion is tyranny. Such facts must be faced,
however undesirable they may seem to edu-

44

-

FP ereengensteti

cators. These tendencies then toward pure
democracy led the Fisk students, as they
have those of other universities, to seek to
put into practical application the basic goy-
ernmental principle mentioned above, and
with ambitions fired by the exploits of re-
formers, martyrs and heroes both true and so-
called, about whom they had been studying
in books, possessed with a zeal which was not
according to knowledge, they went about to
establish their own government, not submit-
ting themselves unto the government of the
university. These fundamental principles of
government will have to be finally taken into
account in school as well as state, for school-
ing is nothing unless it be a training in citi-
zenship. s

T have taught in colleges and am in the
deepest sympathy with faculties and_ their
heads; I have pursued courses in several col-
leges, graduating from three institutions
of learning and thus, being longer a. stu-
dent than a teacher, I am also greatly in sym-
pathy with students and love them in honor
because of their destiny in the state and in
society at large. These facts are not cited
in extentuation of acts of violence com-
mitted by students, for it is evident that au-
thority of heads of schools are of prime im-
portance, and law and order must be rigidly
maintained. Even should it be granted that
in some of the demands of the Fisk students
who rebelled against rightful rule there was
a measure of reasonableness, the methods
they employed in attempting to reach their
desires were rebellious and revolutionary and
therefore most decidedly unreasonable, un-
patriotic and wrong. Should they have ob-
tained their demands through such means the
very fact that they did so through riot and
violence would have shown these particular
persons unfit to advise with the faculty re-
garding school rules and laws. But it must
be borne in mind that the fact that these
rebels of Fisk were not capable of representa-
tion in the government of the university does
not conclude that there are or were not other
students whose advice and counsel might not
be worth while.

Now, I wish it to be most distinctly un-
derstood that I am in hearty accord with
President McKenzie in the firm and just stand
he was forced to take in matters at Fisk.
He did what he thought best and in the best
way he felt it ought to have been done. Who
would dare do less as a president of a college?
Any one reading or hearing the chapel con-
versations given the students during this try-

45

ye
ing time at Fisk cannot help but see that Dr.
MecKenzies heart is right: | He: has the ten
derness of a father toward the students; the
spirit of a martyr, and the disposition of Uh
Son of God, the lowly Nazarene.

He and his faculty working ph with
his committee of ,a. greater. Fisk, shall, cer-
tainly. bring on the happy. time. when. this
famed and faithful university. shall indeed be
a greater Fisk, with greater privileges: for
students, greater. loyalty . upon: their part,
greater. appreciation of the faculty | and
its head, greater, wealth at its command,
and. greater realms in manhood. and woman-
hood . produced through God, for. humanity.
Noble gentle benefactor and friend of both
thy race and mine, ready are we not only
to give expressions of endorsement. and ap-
preciation of thee and thy great work of love,
but to stand: back of: thee with every power
oe we can pcg ages even unto ee if need
e f

08 DR. W. F. WATERS.

(The Nashville Banner, March 4, 1925)

46

STATE BEGINS INVESTIGATION OF
- BLAZE AT FISK |

Probe Will Continue Several Days, Say
Officials.

An investigation of the fire which damaged
the cafeteria and book store at Fisk Univer-
sity Wednesday night, was started Thursday
by the state fire prevention department.

Deputies from the state department re-
mained on the ground throughout the morn-
ing and reported that many persons in the
vicinity were quizzed concerning the fire.

Deputies who visited the scene declined to

give their opinion of the fire, but announced

that the investigation would probably last
several days,

That the fire was of incendiary origin was
the opinion expressed by certain officials of
the city who are assisting the state authori-
ties in- their investigation.

A rebeni, strike of students at the univer-
sity, caused by the refusal. of Dr.. McKenzie
to resign as head of the institution, furnished
grounds for investigating the fire, officials of
the state department said.

Recently a near riot was caused at the
school, resulting in. the dismissal of several
students and bringing about the strike...

The fire, which caused only a loss of about
$1,800, was discovered by a student return-
ing to one of the dormitories shortly after 9
Dp. ma.

When the flames were extinguished, a num-
ber of students in sympathy with President
McKenzie stood guard over the burned area
Wednesday night.

Dr. McKenzie was non-committal when
asked if he believed the fire of incendiary ori-

gin.

(From The Nashville Evening Tennessean,
March 5, 1925)

47
FISK SUPPORTER STRUCK ON HEAD

Dr. ee F. Waters, Negro dentist, 900
Twelfth Avenue, South, reported to the police
department that he was assaulted and ren-
dered unconscious Thursday night ats 11
oclock on Grand.Avenue, near Thirteenth

Avenue. Dr. Waters says he was passing the

mouth of an alley when some one jumped out
an hit him over the head with a blunt instru-
ment. He was rendered unconscious and it
was more than an hour before he recovered
and called for help. With the exception of
the blow on the head, Dr. Waters was un-

injured. He was not robbed.

Dr. Waters-is one of the Negro lexdons of
the city who has supported the side of the
faculty at Fisk University following the re-
cent walkout of a majority of the students.

(From The Nashville Banner, March 6, 1925)

48