A Legacy of Justice: The History of the Columbia SC Branch NAACP

On February 17, 1917, under the leadership of the legendary James Weldon Johnson, the Columbia SC Branch of the NAACP was founded, planting the seeds of justice in South Carolina’s capital city. With a mission to fight racial injustice and a vision for a more equitable society, the Columbia SC Branch quickly became a pillar of advocacy and empowerment for African Americans throughout the Midlands.

From its inception, the branch attracted leaders of courage and conviction—individuals who would dedicate their lives to civil rights, education, and the uplift of the Black community. These pioneers laid a foundation that has stood the test of time for over a century.

The Trailblazers

The first president, Butler W. Nance (1917–1923), helped shape the early direction of the branch during a turbulent period of American history. Following him, Dr. J.G. Stuart (1924–1932) and Dr. Robert W. Mance (1933–1941) built upon that foundation, navigating the branch through the Great Depression while advocating for educational and civil rights.

The 1940s ushered in bold leadership under Mr. James M. Hinton (1942-1943) and Rev. E.A. Adams (1944–1952), the latter serving nearly a decade and guiding the branch through the heart of Jim Crow. These were years of profound resistance and resilience, and the Columbia Branch remained steadfast.

Through the 1950s and 60s, spiritual and legal leadership intertwined. Rev. S.J. Henry (1953–1954), Rev. Roscoe C. Wilson (1955–1956), Mr. A.P. Williams (1957–1958), and Rev. J.C. Williams (1959–1964) carried the branch into the civil rights era, standing firm during the Brown v. Board of Education era and the early days of the movement.

Legal Minds and Strategic Fighters

The mid-1960s saw a wave of younger, strategic leadership. Attorney Hemphill Pride (1965–1966) brought legal precision to the branch’s fight, followed by Dr. Benjamin J. Glover (1967–1968)—a scholar and visionary whose influence is still felt in the cultural arts and education communities.

From 1969 to 1970, Rev. William M. Bowman continued the legacy of religious leadership, bridging the church and the community in the ongoing quest for justice.

Long-Term Builders and Movement Sustainers

A new era began with Mr. Frank Washington (1971–1986), whose 16-year tenure marked a time of stability and consistent advocacy, transitioning the branch through the post-Civil Rights Act years into a new social and political reality.

Ms. Adell Adams (1987–1990) became the first woman to serve as president, a pioneering moment for the branch. Her tenure focused on youth involvement and community empowerment. Her leadership bookended the early '90s as she returned to serve again from 1993–1996.

In between her terms, Mr. James L. Felder (1991–1992), a seasoned civil rights activist and legislator, brought fierce advocacy and government insight to the branch’s strategies.

The Modern Movement

In 1997, Dr. Lonnie Randolph took the helm and served for two decades, leading until 2016. Dr. Randolph was a tireless fighter for health equity, voting rights, and justice reform, becoming one of the most recognized civil rights leaders in South Carolina’s history. Under his leadership, the Columbia Branch's voice echoed across the state and beyond.

After him, Rev. Otis Outing (2017–2018) continued the legacy with spiritual leadership during a time of national tension and transition.

A New Chapter

In 2019, Ms. L. Oveta Glover became president of the Columbia SC Branch. A leader with deep roots in advocacy, education, and community empowerment, Ms. Glover has reignited the branch’s commitment to “freedom through action.” Under her leadership, the branch has embraced voter education, youth engagement, digital outreach, and economic equity—all while keeping the historic mission alive. Her work in the “OUR VOTE IS OUR VOICE” campaign has become a model for community organizing and civic participation across the Midlands.

Today, the Columbia SC Branch NAACP stands not only as a historical institution but as a living force. More than a century after its founding, it continues to challenge injustice, celebrate culture, and demand change—driven by a lineage of fearless leaders who have never backed down from the fight for civil and human rights.

Because when the Columbia SC BRANCH NAACP moves, justice follows.

"ON FIRE FOR JUSTICE, ON FIRE FOR PEACE"