Principal Spence

Principal Spence led Fisk University during a desperate period after the Civil War. The school had been founded to educate formerly enslaved people but faced hunger, violence, crumbling buildings, and possible closure. Treasurer George White believed a choir of students could tour the country and raise the money Fisk needed. Spence initially resisted sending them away, especially when their plan seemed uncertain and dangerous. As the bank moved closer to taking the school, he finally authorized the journey with only forty dollars and inadequate clothing for the coming winter. His decision allowed the Fisk singers to carry their spirituals to new audiences, endure severe prejudice, and begin the mission that could preserve their university.