1950s Segregation in Downtown Hickory, NC

I never knew the words segregation nor discrimination until well into high school, although my family had been immersed in the practice of both for generations. My parents were particular who they allowed to care for their young children, and one of the trusted souls was my aunt Pauline Mitchell. She had a son my age: in fact, Pete and I were born in the same hospital two days apart, shared the same nursery there and many hours and days as we grew up. Neither of us could even pronounce the word segregation. But I have a vivid memory of my first scrape with it during a trip to Sears Department Store in downtown Hickory with my aunt's family during the late 1950s.

Pete and I were thirsty. We rushed to the two water fountains at the back of the store. He began drinking from one and I from the other. Suddenly, everyone began to laugh at me. I looked up at a sign that read "Colored." I was shocked at myself, embarrassed, and afraid for my health. Did the water taste any different from Sears' "White" fountain? I didn't think so. Was I going to be taken to jail or to the hospital? It didn't seem so. Everyone chuckled, and we went on our way -- to the Center Theater, Woolworth's, Murphy's or the corner drug store.

I've thought about that day for many years. I've wondered whether anyone else ever noticed my mistake. The water was clear; it was cold; it was refreshing. The memory is refreshing still. And now I can share it with all.