Interview with C. L. Timberlake, July 8, 1978

Interview Summary

C. L. Timberlake recalls first meeting Clements in 1932 and the early years of their relationship, giving an account of Clements' time as a football coach. He describes his involvement with every campaign Clements ran: 1945 Congressional race; 1947 gubernatorial campaign; 1950 campaign for U.S. Congress; and his 1956 campaign for re-election. Timberlake discusses the 1955 Kentucky gubernatorial primary between Bert Combs and Happy Chandler, and then reflects on Clements' failed 1956 re-election campaign, and the weight of the African American vote in that election. He discusses the state of segregation in Kentucky during Clements' gubernatorial administration, saying he "threw all his weight behind integration," and explaining the legislation efforts surrounding the issue. Timberlake answers a succession of questions about the state of Black colleges in Kentucky under Clements as governor, also addressing Clements' relationship with Rufus Atwood, and leadership in the African American community at that time. He discusses Clements hiring the first African Americans to government positions in the state.

Interview Keyword

Earle C. Clements United States politics Educators Governors Politicians Legislators Bert T. Combs Happy Chandler

Interview LC Subject

Clements, Earle C. (Earle Chester), 1896-1985 Minorities--Political activity Kentucky. Governor (1947-1950 : Clements) Political campaigns Legislators--United States African Americans--Segregation Politicians--United States Timberlake, C. L. Timberlake, C. L.--Interviews Integration

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Interview Usage

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