T.H. Barton Letter to Supporter About Denying 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:rg