In 1962, tensions were high across Bartow County as community leaders stepped forward to fight for equal rights during the Civil Rights Movement.

While nationally, names like the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and Medgar Evers stood out as pioneers for the movement, it was a group of nine African-American men from the county who started a movement of their own.

William Roberson, of Cartersville, reached out to Arthur Carter, William Wade, Walter Johnson Sr., Luther Jackson, George Hendrix, Rev. L.L. Kelley, James Tinch and Bradley Wyatt and asked them to become advocates for the local black community.

The relationship between blacks and whites in Bartow County wasn’t as explosive as other places, but there were injustices that the men hoped to address through the proper channels.

“At that particular time people didn’t take kindly to people asking for what they felt they justly deserved,” said Carter, who is one of the last remaining founding members.

But Carter and his organization, the New Frontier of Bartow County, was willing to take on the challenge.

On Feb. 22, 1962, the group became official.

From the onset they played a pivotal role in the community for African-Americans who anted to be heard by city and county leaders.

“In time we were able to accomplish what we wanted to accomplish,” Cater said.

When they began 50 years ago, the New Frontier’s mission was to “work for the betterment of all citizens of Bartow County, to work for better job opportunities for all citizens of Bartow County and to assist in educational progress.”

Ralph Lowe, who has been a member since 1963, said the group was united in its desire to make a difference.

“Initially when it started there were some exclusions racially for blacks and the idea was the elimination of those targets at that time,” Lowe said.

And over the course of the years the organization’s reputation grew and they began to see the fruits of their labor.

“To me, everything has changed for the best,” said George Brown, who also is one of the organization’s oldest members.

There are currently about 26 active members in the organization.

They are always seeking new members. The club is exclusive to men and only those who are registered voters.

Over the years, the group has seen itself transition into a different role.

Lowe said along with the transition has been a change in some misconceptions about New Frontier.

“Down through the years we have replaced those misconceptions,” Lowe said. “We’ve always gotten more compliments than complaints.”

In the community, the organization is known for its annual Community Dinner held around Thanksgiving each year. They also mentor youth, help the needy and give scholarships.

“We’re kind of the champions of the underdogs,” said organization President Bryan Canty. “I believe we have a certain credibility in the community. That’s a huge milestone.”

As the organization prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary Canty said New Frontier will continue to evolve to meet the needs of those in need in the community.

In addition to providing help, New Frontier also wants to encourage citizens to become active participants in what goes on in their community and in the country as a whole.

“One of our mandates is we encourage people to vote,” Canty said. “There is no better way for your voice to be heard than in the ballot box.

Although their role has changed since the Civil Rights Movement, Canty said the organization is still and always will be an advocate.

“As long as someone is being discriminated against, there will always be a place for New Frontier,” Canty said.