Description
On November 26, 1967, Dr. Thomas William Matthew of the National Economic Growth and Reconstruction Organization (NEGRO) acquired
two South Los Angeles bus companies from Frank and Herbert Atkinson. Atkinson Transportation Company (ATCO) and the South
Los Angeles Transportation Company originally began in the 1920s as extensions of streetcar lines. They were merged to create
the Blue and White Bus Company of Watts (Blue and White). The Blue and White Bus Company was an African-American owned company
created out of a merger of two local bus companies and operated from 1967 to 1971. After much hardship, the bus company was
taken over by the Southern California Rapid Transit District (SCRTD) in September of 1971. The collection consists of materials
related to the Blue and White Bus Company of Watts collected by Rapid Transit District including correspondence, Public Utilities
Commission hearings, financial and service studies, and newspaper clippings.
Background
On November 26, 1967, Dr. Thomas William Matthew of the National Economic Growth and Reconstruction Organization (NEGRO) acquired
two South Los Angeles bus companies from Frank and Herbert Atkinson. Atkinson Transportation Company (ATCO) and the South
Los Angeles Transportation Company originally began in the 1920s as extensions of streetcar lines and were merged to create
the Blue and White Bus Company of Watts. This new bus company was African-American owned and ran from 1967-1971.
Extent
1.25 Linear Feet
(3 boxes)
Restrictions
For permission to reproduce or publish, please contact the LACMTA Research Library and Archive. Permission for reproduction
or publication is given on behalf of the LACMTA Research Library and Archive as the owner of the physical items. The researcher
assumes all responsibility for possible infringement that may arise from reproduction or publication of materials from the
LACMTA Research Library and Archive collections.
Availability
Open for research. Advance notice required for access. Contact LACMTA Research Library and Archive to make an appointment.