Cofield, Curtis, 2005 March 23
Scope and Contents
Curtis Cofield came to New Haven in 1965 to serve as Pastor for the Immanuel Baptist Church, on Chapel Street. Cofield describes the challenges of being a pastor of a predominantly middle-class, African-American congregation in the midst of the Civil Rights movement. His congregation, he explains, did not expect him to be radical and Cofield took a moderate liberal stance on many issues. He discusses the intimidation he experienced from the Black Panthers and other more radical groups. He opposed the violence and destruction that he believed characterized their message. Cofield labored to bridge gaps in the community through inter-congregational collaboration. He talks a bit about the May Day demonstrationsand the attempts to improve racial relations in their aftermath. He also talks about the economic aspects of the Civil Rights movement.
Interviewer: Johnson, Emily
Length (min): 31
Dates
- 2005 March 23
Creator
- From the Collection: New Haven Oral History Project (New Haven, Conn.)
Conditions Governing Access
As a preservation measure, original materials may not be used. Digital access copies must be provided for use. Contact Manuscripts and Archives at beinecke.library@yale.edu to request access
Extent
1 Computer Files (.wav)
1:02:52 Duration (HH:MM:SS.mmm)
Language of Materials
From the Collection: English
Part of the Manuscripts and Archives Repository
Yale University Library
P.O. Box 208240
New Haven CT 06520-8240 US
(203) 432-1735
(203) 432-7441 (Fax)
beinecke.library@yale.edu
Location
Sterling Memorial Library
Room 147
120 High Street
New Haven, CT 06511