1960 Press Photo William L. Shepherd, member of committee for public education

The major factor contributing to peaceful integration in Norfolk was the six-month period when six schools were closed, a member of that city's committee for public education said here Monday. Interviewed in his Roosevelt hotel room, William L. Shepherd said it was not until schools had been closed that Norfolk "realize the futility" of fighting de segregation. So when the schools were reopened, he said integration was accomplished without violence.

Photo is dated 1960.

Photo measures 8 x 10.25 inches.