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WDBJ September Showdown Interview with R. O. Nelson
(WDBJ Television, Roanoke, VA)

Dr. R. O. Nelson, Superintendent of Schools in Newport News, explained how several black applicants to white schools were directed to fill out the forms provided by the state Pupil Placement Board. Because the city of Newport News and Warwick County merged on July 1, 1958, the newly created school board requested a delay in proceedings in federal district court on the cases of black plaintiffs seeking admission to white schools. Judge Walter D. Hoffman presided over the case.
About the film
  • Date: July 13, 1958
  • Sound: Yes
  • Duration: 02:26
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