The 1930s were a time of massive change, but rural areas lagged far behind their urban counterparts. By 1925, 85% of urban residents had access to electricity, while fewer than 1% of farms in North Carolina had power by 1930. It was a reality that left many rural families struggling in the dark, both literally and figuratively.

Dr. A.H. Kerr, affectionately known as “Hub,” saw the transformative power of electricity firsthand. As an agricultural leader and visionary, Kerr knew that electrification could revolutionize life on farms and in rural communities. He once said, “Electricity is not just a convenience; it is the bridge to a better, more productive life for those who need it most.”

But bringing power to rural areas was no simple feat. Early efforts, like the Sampson County Electric Membership Corporation founded in 1935, faced numerous obstacles. Promises from larger utility companies to expand into rural areas often fell short, and the fledgling cooperative faced competition from corporate giants like Tidewater and Carolina Power and Light. Despite these setbacks, Kerr and his associates never gave up.

The founders of what would become Four County EMC worked tirelessly, navigating federal bureaucracy, advocating for funding through the Rural Electrification Administration (REA), and rallying support from their neighbors. In a letter to the REA, Kerr expressed the urgency of their mission: “If indefinite delay continues, it would appear that there is no chance of the farm folk being given the same opportunity with electricity that other folks are receiving.”

“Electricity is not just a convenience; it is the bridge to a better, more productive life for those who need it most.”

By 1936, the cooperative gained new momentum with leaders like Bladen County agriculture agent James Powell and farmer Julian Keith. Together, they reignited hope for rural families, many of whom had signed petitions affirming their willingness to pay for and use electricity if only given the chance.

Looking back, it’s clear how far we’ve come. The efforts of Kerr and others turned the tide, ensuring that rural electrification wasn’t just a possibility but a reality. Today, we celebrate their vision and perseverance—a reminder of the days when the countryside was dark and the determination of a few brightened the future for generations to come.

Let’s honor their legacy by remembering those humble beginnings and the incredible journey that has brought us here. Truly, from the struggles of 1930 to the light-filled homes of today, we’ve come a long way.

Source: Lighting Rural Communities: Celebrating 75 Years of Reliability, Innovation, and Service. Copyright 2012 by Four County Electric Membership Corporation. Written by Jefferson Weaver.