About the Branch

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded in 1909 in Niagara Falls, NY. In 1917, an initial meeting to organize the Elmira Branch of the NAACP was held. Mrs. Cornelius Matthews organized the meeting to start the chapter. At this
first meeting, James Armstrong was elected president. Meetings were held at local churches. In 1920, the organization applied for and received charter membership from the NAACP. Three presidents served during this charter period.

The branch lacked a clear focus, and the purpose of the NAACP was not well understood. Efforts were mainly on scholarship funding. After the founding members passed away, no one continued the programs, leading to the organization’s decline.

Mrs. Grace Higgins Mann, president of the Negro Progressive Club in Elmira, proposed merging
the club with the NAACP. In September 1942, the club was revitalized and received a charter as the Elmira Branch NAACP.

In 1972 the Elmira branch was reorganized as the Elmira-Corning Branch NAACP to support black victims of Hurricane Agnes in flooded areas that were reluctant to ask for help.

The Elmira-Corning branch, though small, is highly active and influential. It embraces national NAACP initiatives locally by sponsoring programs, collaborating with community organizations, recognizing individuals, and working with law enforcement and government.

 

The branch has a strong scholarship program in partnership with corporations, organizations, and individuals, aiding trade school trainees, high school graduates, and college students. It has received
numerous NAACP awards, including several Thalheimer Awards.