60 years ago, they sat down at Nashville lunch counters — and sparked a movement against segregation

They convened just after noon at the Arcade on Fifth Avenue North, braving a forceful snowstorm. They came well-dressed in collared shirts, heavy dress coats and ties.

They walked in, dozens of highly composed young black men and women, to the lunch counters at three downtown Nashville drugstores.

They were determined for change and prepared to make a point. Even when no one wanted to listen.

When they entered, others fidgeted. White store clerks claimed spots at the counter to prevent the black students from taking a seat. Employees scrambled to put up hand-written signs. Closed, one read.

But the students didn't disperse.

Sixty years ago today — on Feb. 13, 1960 — more than 100 young African Americans, along with a few white supporters, staged the very first demonstrations to desegregate Nashville lunch counters.

They came from local universities: Fisk, Tennessee A&I and the American Baptist Theological seminary. They entered the Woolworth, Kress and McLellans.

They wandered through the stores, some purchased candy and other small items, then they occupied the lunch counter seats.

They asked to be served. When they were denied, they stayed, in silent protest.

It was the beginning of a movement.

Inspired by an impromptu sit-in by students in Greensboro, North Carolina, just two weeks earlier, these Nashville students followed suit in passive opposition that lasted nearly three months until Mayor Ben West heard the cry for integration on the courthouse steps.

The city's sit-ins marked the first organized efforts in the South.

They began something momentous.

Nashville's demonstrations, sustained and successful, emboldened and mobilized others across the country. Participants suffered verbal and physical abuse. They were arrested, fined and incarcerated. Still, they held steadfast.

They fought for the end of racial segregation.

They fought for equality.

They fought for their civil rights.

During the next several months, The Tennessean will publish historic photos and front pages from the movement culminating in Diane Nash’s historic request from the courthouse steps that led to integration.

Reach Jessica Bliss at 615-259-8253 and jbliss@tennessean.com or on Twitter @jlbliss and please support local journalism.