Timeline: 1940

The census recorded 2,106 Black residents in Champaign County.

John Smith, son of George Smith of Broadlands, known in horse circles for his horse named Pat, sponsored horse shows and underwrote the 4H. However, he faced discrimination at the county fairs and was unable to ride Pat at the University of Illinois Stock Shows. Oscar Witt a white man rode for him.

Pete Bridgewater’s band performed during the 1940s.

1940–1949: Eddie Glover ran the Champaign Colts, a segregated baseball team that played in the Eastern Illinois League. In 1941 the team won the League Championship.

1940s–1950s: The Royalettes, a young women’s organization, engaged in community and civic events, including sponsoring a ‘Christmas in July’ fundraiser  for the new wing of Burnham Hospital.

1940s–1950s: Lus Hite Band was formed with brothers Luster “Lus” Jay Hite on drums and Ernest “Earnie” Hite, Jr. on piano. After playing locally, Lus took the band to California and became famous, playing in and for movies.

1940s–1950s: The Rhythmeers, a singing group, performed.

1940s–1960s: The Champaign Eagles played in the minor league Cornbelt League. The team won the League Championship in 1957. The team was formed by Wardell Jackson.