On March 15, 1940, a group of dedicated citizens gathered at the courthouse in Raeford to take the first steps toward bringing electricity to these rural areas. With the guidance of a representative from the Rural Electrification Administration (REA), they unanimously agreed to form the electric cooperative that would become Lumbee River EMC.

Among those who signed the founding document were Marshall Newton, J.A. Roper, Mrs. Lucy Smith of Hoke County, J.E. Morrison, C.A. Alford, J.R. Caddell of Robeson County, Dan McGirt, Mrs. T.P. McGirt of Scotland County and J.McN. Gillis of Cumberland County. Their commitment marked the beginning of a new era for rural electricity, and their vision has continued to impact the lives of many to this day.

The First Steps Toward Electrification

Chartered on June 27, 1940, Lumbee River EMC took its first steps toward electrifying rural areas when the first power lines surged into Robeson County. The cooperative’s first substation, located just west of Red Springs near Highway 71, was energized on April 5, 1941. The arrival of electricity in the area marked a monumental shift for the 409 members served in 1941, who were soon able to say goodbye to hand-churned butter, kerosene lamps, and wood-fire stoves.

The provision of electric power revolutionized the way people lived and worked in these communities. Homes became brighter, more comfortable, and more efficient, while businesses experienced a new level of productivity. The availability of electricity also opened the doors for new homes, new businesses, and greater opportunities for growth and prosperity.

A Legacy of Service and Commitment

Lumbee River EMC was founded with a clear purpose: to serve its members. From its humble beginnings, the cooperative has grown into an organization that now serves more than 61,000 members. Throughout its 85-year history, Lumbee River EMC has remained committed to its original mission—delivering reliable, affordable, and safe electric power to the communities it serves.

As Lumbee River EMC celebrates its 85th anniversary, the cooperative reflects on the generations of people, progress, and power that have shaped its legacy. The vision of a few determined individuals, who believed in the rural American dream of having access to modern conveniences, has grown into an enduring institution that continues to empower members today.

Celebrating 85 Years of Progress

This year, Lumbee River EMC invites all its members to join in celebrating 85 years of growth, service, and community impact. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of those early founders, the cooperative has been able to fulfill its mission of improving the lives of rural families, bringing light to homes and businesses, and fueling progress in the region.

Lumbee River EMC’s journey from those first 409 members to serving more than 61,000 today is a testament to the enduring power of cooperation, vision, and community spirit. As we look forward to the next 85 years, Lumbee River EMC remains steadfast in its commitment to serving its members, fostering growth, and powering the future.

Here’s to 85 years of people, power, and progress—and to many more years of bright futures ahead!