Hays, Brooks

Description

Article in U.S. News and World Report based on excerpts from Hays' book A Southern Moderate Speaks Inside Story of Little Rock ...The withdrawal of troops ended a chapter in the Little Rock story. The rest of the story is a part of still-unfolding history. . . . But however the story may conclude, the rule of law must prevail" him "a new Arkansas story"; generally he asked for one. Since September, however, there were few moments of levity in our conversations. On this occasion Sherman came to the point quickly. "Get Secretary Brucker on the phone," he said to his secretary, and we had a three-way talk. The Secretary explained what they had in mind about ultimate withdrawal, before June, of all the troops from the high-school building, leaving only a few men stationed at Camp Robinson across the river. Adams asked me to prepare the city and school authorities for this gradual "phasing out" of the force at the school building, leaving the policing at that point to the local authorities. Guardsmen Stay at Central High This was a consummation I had devoutly hoped for-the complete withdrawal of the military-though I had never recommended it until all who had a right to be consulted were sure that it would not jeopardize the safety of Negro or white students. I called Josh Shepherd and Clyde Lowry, members of the businessmen's group, asking them to consult the school board and the mayor and to give me the composite judgment as...

From Collection

Brooks Hays Materials

Record Contributed By

University of Arkansas