In 1958, a significant moment in American civil rights history unfolded in Robeson County, North Carolina. This event, known as the Battle of Hayes Pond or sometimes the Battle of Maxton Field, was a confrontation between the Lumbee people—a Native American tribe—and the Ku Klux Klan. The Lumbee stood united to defend their community against the threats and intimidation tactics of the Klan.
This clash was not just a simple skirmish but a powerful symbol of resistance against hate and racism. It showed that communities could stand together and fight back without violence, changing the course of history in the process.
In this article, we will explore the background of the Lumbee tribe, the rise of the Klan in Robeson County, the battle itself, and why the Battle of Hayes Pond remains important today.
Who Are the Lumbee?
Before discussing the battle, it’s important to understand who the Lumbee are. The Lumbee Tribe is one of the largest Native American tribes in the United States. They primarily live in Robeson County, North Carolina. The Lumbee people have a rich history and mixed heritage, deeply connected to their land and traditions.
During the 1950s, the Lumbee faced discrimination and segregation like many minority communities in the South. Despite their contributions to society and military service, they were often denied basic rights and faced racial prejudice.
The Klan’s Arrival in Robeson County
The 1950s saw a resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan in many parts of the American South. The Klan was a white supremacist group that used fear, intimidation, and violence to promote racist ideas and suppress minority communities, including African Americans and Native Americans.
In 1957, James W. “Catfish” Cole, a Klan leader from South Carolina, began organizing rallies in Robeson County. He openly promoted racist messages against the Lumbee, claiming they were unworthy of equal rights. Cole and the Klan held cross burnings and threatened interracial relationships, trying to intimidate the Lumbee people into submission.
However, the Lumbee community refused to be scared. Instead of backing down, they began preparing to defend themselves.
The Lead-Up to the Battle
On January 18, 1958, the Klan planned a large rally near the town of Maxton, at a field close to Hayes Pond. They advertised this event to spread fear and show power over the Lumbee people.
The Klan expected little resistance. They thought the Lumbee would remain silent or stay away.
But the Lumbee were ready. When word spread about the planned rally, Lumbee leaders quickly organized a response. Hundreds of Lumbee men, many of them military veterans, armed themselves—not to attack, but to protect their community and send a message to the Klan.
The Night of the Battle of Hayes Pond
On the evening of January 18, over 500 Lumbee gathered near the field where the rally was to be held. The Klan had set up their stage, lights, and microphones, expecting to hold a usual rally.
But as the night began, the Lumbee surrounded the area in numbers that far outmatched the Klan. Just as the rally was about to start, Lumbee men began shouting and advancing toward the Klan’s stage. Shots were fired into the air, the Klan’s spotlight was shot out, and chaos broke out.
Many Klan members fled into the woods while others were pushed back by the Lumbee. The Klan’s plans collapsed in confusion and fear. The Lumbee had effectively ended the rally without any serious injuries or deaths.
The Klan never returned to Robeson County after that night.
Media Coverage and Public Reaction
News of the Battle of Hayes Pond spread quickly across the nation. Major newspapers and magazines covered the story, highlighting the Lumbee’s courage and refusal to be intimidated.
The Associated Press called it the “Routing of the Klan,” and the event was reported in The New York Times, Life Magazine, and many Southern newspapers. The Lumbee were praised for standing up to the Klan in a way that used strength and unity rather than violence.
Public opinion was largely supportive of the Lumbee, seeing them as defenders of their rights and community.
Legal Aftermath
Unlike many other clashes involving the Klan, the Lumbee faced little legal trouble. The authorities chose not to press serious charges against the Lumbee men involved in breaking up the rally.
James “Catfish” Cole, the Klan leader, was arrested later—not for organizing a hate rally but for inciting a riot. He was convicted and fined, marking a rare defeat for a Klan leader at the time.
This legal outcome further emphasized the strength and justice behind the Lumbee’s actions.
Why the Battle of Hayes Pond Matters
The Battle of Hayes Pond remains an important event for many reasons:
- It showed that marginalized groups, like the Lumbee, could organize and resist hate groups effectively.
- It proved that community unity and courage could overcome fear and intimidation without widespread violence.
- It strengthened Lumbee cultural pride and identity, inspiring future generations to stand up for their rights.
- It served as a warning to hate groups that they could face serious consequences if they tried to spread terror in communities willing to defend themselves.
Lessons from the Battle for Today
In a world where hate groups still exist and racial tensions persist, the Battle of Hayes Pond offers valuable lessons:
- Unity and solidarity in a community can prevent the spread of hate.
- Standing up against injustice can bring about change, even without violence.
- Speaking out and taking action are powerful tools against oppression.
The Lumbee’s stand is an example for anyone facing intimidation or racism today.
Remembering the Battle
The Lumbee Tribe continues to honor the Battle of Hayes Pond as a defining moment in their history. The site near Hayes Pond is marked with historical plaques, and the story is taught in local schools and civil rights studies.
Each year, the community remembers the bravery of those who defended their people and sent a clear message against hatred.
Conclusion
The Battle of Hayes Pond was more than just a clash between the Lumbee and the Ku Klux Klan—it was a statement of pride, resistance, and justice. The Lumbee people refused to be victims of racial terror and showed that courage and unity can overcome even the most hateful opposition.
Their story remains a powerful reminder that hate can be challenged, and that communities have the power to protect their dignity and future.
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