Lenny Springs (Finding Aid)

Lenny Springs

1947 -

Favorite Color: Black

Favorite Time of Year: Fall

Favorite Vacation Spot: Hilton Head, South Carolina

Interview Length: 114 minutes

Interview Date(s): July 11, 2005

Interview Location(s): Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Abstract

Lenny Springs talks about his parents' backgrounds. Springs then details events surrounding his uncle's involvement with the NAACP in South Carolina in the 1950s. He then recalls the sensorial aspects of his childhood. Lastly, Springs describes his work ethic and competitive nature during his teen years. Lenny Springs talks about his formal education in segregationist South Carolina. Springs then discusses the racist reputations of South Carolina governors, Benjamin "Pitchfork Ben" Tillman and Strom Thurmond. He then talks about the racial inequity during his high school years, receiving discarded supplies from the white schools. Lastly, Springs describes race relations in rural South Carolina in the 1960s. Lenny Springs talks about his move to Atlantic City, NJ after high school. Springs then recalls his experiences and mentors at Voorhees College in Denmark, SC, and his subsequent tour of duty in the Army in Vietnam. Lastly, Springs discusses his path after his military experience and his decision to pursue a career in banking. Lenny Springs details his role in the banking industry and the need for economic empowerment in the African American community. Springs then discusses his involvement with the national NAACP and Vernon Jarret's brainchild, ACT-SO. He then talks about his legacy, family, and how he would like to be remembered.

26 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)