Newsome Family Collection

Newsome Family Collection

Clifford James "C.J." Newsome's life was dedicated to promoting Atlantic City tourism throughout the country, especially tourism to the often-overlooked black communities in the Northside. Born in Augusta, Georgia, he moved to Atlantic City in the 1920s. In 1929, he was a founder of the Atlantic City Board of Trade (ACBT), which became the Black Chamber of Commerce, promoting Atlantic City as a place for African-American conventions. He successfully brought African-American businesses and conventions to the resort where dollars were spent on the Northside, far from Boardwalk hotels from which they were barred. The ACBT lost most of its influence with the advent of the civil rights movement as businesses along the beach opened up to diverse clientele. Though the Board of Trade's influence waned after desegregation, Newsome kept it running until his death, always seeking to attract more people to his hometown. He married first, Carrie E. (1903-1975), and second, Gertrude. He and his family operated Newsome's Guest House at 126 North Indiana Avenue, one of many Northside rooming houses that welcomed African-American guests. In addition, Mr. Newsome worked for Atlantic City Mayor Thomas Taggart in the 1940s and for the city Police Department. A leader of St. James A.M.E. Church, he belonged to many civic and fraternal organizations. He served as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler of the Elks for 19 years. In 1941, over 100,000 people lined up on the city's Northside to see an Elks Parade, a product of Newsome's efforts.