February 1, 1960:
After passing by Ralph Johns' store on Market Street, Ezell Blair Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), David Richmond, Joseph McNeil, and Franklin McCain enter the Elm Street Woolworth's at 4 p.m., purchase school supplies and "sundry" items. They then approach the lunch counter and order coffee at 4:30 p.m. They are refused service. The four remain in their seats until closing at 5 p.m.


When it happened, I wished I could have been there. Still do. If I'd ever put together a personal pilgrimage, this Woolworth's would be on it. Now I have seen it: it's a block down from the theatre. It will someday be a museum.

Bless them, and all who act for the good of us all with their hearts, putting their bodies where it matters, and taking the consequences. . . .