55 and Time to Jive

Nathaniel Lowery (aka "Nat the Cat") worked as a DJ at  WWIT radio station in Canton during the 1950s. He had a large fan base of multiracial listeners, during the height of the segregationist sentiment in the South. Through the use of a mutual interest in music he helped to bring the black and white community together in Canton. 

His family also has ties to the desegregation movement in Haywood County. His wife, Alice, was partially responsible for the integration of the Colonial Theatre in Canton.  

Nat also worked at Champion Paper Mill, which was another staple of the Canton community.  The mill was responsible for employing many Haywood County residents regardless of race or ethnicity.  

Between his involvement in the radio station, the desegregation movement, and the Champion Paper Mill, Nathaniel Lowery created strong ties to the Canton community which he is remembered for today. Not only was he well known throughout the community, but he contributed to racial cohesion in the community through his radio show.  This exhibit is created in an effort to honor the ties that Nat the Cat created.