T he  Gum Springs Historical Society is now in its twentieth year of operation.  many things have transpired since its birth in 1984.  The communtiy of Gum Springs is ever changing, ever evolving.  It is in a lofe or death stuggle for its survival.

This struggle has raged for many years so the need for a catalyst in which to house and preserve the history of Gum Springs is ever present.  Calvin L. Ferguson wanted to have a museum for Gum Springs to preserve its history.  Community members came together and formed the Gum Springs Historical Society.  Thus was born a stepping stone to creating the Museum.

Calvin did not live to see the many accomplishments of the Society.  Two years after the Society's inception he passed on to his reward.  The Society has been accomplishing its goals step-by-step.  It has provided informative information on the evolution of Gum Springs, its importance to African Americans and to our nation.  Providing information is but one of the Society's many responsibilies. 

Thirteen years ago I stood on a field at the intersection of Sherwood Hall Lane and Fordson road executing another of the Society's goals.  It was the dedication of the Historical road markers for Gum Springs.  At the event I stated that the road markers were the precursor to the establishment of the Gum Springs Museum.  I am pleased to report, mission accomplished.  The Gum Springs Museum and Cultural Center opened its doors in the fall of 1996.  Even though another goal of the Society has been accomplished, the war is not over. 

In the past twenty years I have served eighteen years as the Society's President, one as Vice President and one as Treasurer.  I am proud of the Society's accomplishments, however there is still much to do and time is short.

On this our twentieth Anniversary, I would like to thank the many supporters and members for without you none of this would be possible.