On September 7, 1923, in response to rising racial tensions, Johnstown Mayor Joseph Cauffiel ordered all Blacks and Mexicans who had lived in the area for less than seven years to leave. By some reports, more than 2,000 people were forced out under threat of imprisonment. News reports, some by Black journalists and activists, prompted a state investigation and turned public opinion against Cauffiel, who lost reelection.

Photo: Mike Wintermantel

Photo: Mike Wintermantel

West Taylor, Pennsylvania · USA