T.H. Barton Letter to Supporter About Denying Voting Rights to African-Americans

Senatorial candidate T.H. Barton, of Lion Oil Company, expresses his views on deying voting rights to African-Americans.June 5, 1944 Mr. C.E. Webb Cotton Belt Good Will Club 718 West Fifth Street Pine Bluff, Arkansas Dear Mr. Webb: You are a man after my own heart and I just can't help but believe that the fine people of Arkansas are going to take the same stand you are taking in your letter to Governor Adkins. This is the most momentous question that has arisen in our political life in Arkansas since the days of the Carpet Baggers and I do not think that the small expense entailed in calling the special session, or that the little trouble it might cause some, should prevent it being done. I am going to insist that this matter be corrected by whatever is the correct way of doing it and I am advised that the only way it can be fully and completely settled is by having the Legislature meet and change our primary laws. I havelived all of my life in the South. I came from Texas to Arkansas, having lived here about twenty-four years. Both my grandfathers wee in the confederacy. I have been a democrat all my life, and I want to remain one, and I cannot appreciate any men in our state not squarely facing this issue. I have had many fine people call me and write me with re- gard to this end and I believe that our citizenship is going to demand a straight forward, honest action about it. I thank you for sending me the copy of your letter and I am thankful that we have men who are honest enough in their convictions to express themselves as clearly as you have done. I send you my thanks and kindest regards. Sincerely, THB:r