The story of Dorothy and Jerry Bacon, their ancestors and descendants and their role in the history of Springfield, is an amazing example of resilience and fortitude.

Both Dorothy and Jerry were involved in the emerging movement for civil rights and were leaders in the early struggle to break Springfield's color line.

Dorothy worked to combat the segregation and injustice she saw in the community, and became secretary of the NAACP and Democratic committeewoman in her precinct. She fought for the desegregation of schools and helped Perrin Woods Elementary become the first desegregated school in Springfield.

Dorothy and Jerome Bacon are buried in section 28 of Ferncliff Cemetery.