The 1920's in Springfield were a time of great industrial growth, and like many, Hattie Moseley migrated from the south in search of jobs, freedoms, and opportunities. But what Hattie found in Springfield in 1922 were the same conditions, including a very active Klan.

Hattie became dedicated to fighting segregation and promoting the civil rights of every American here in Springfield. She was known for organizing sit-ins at the lunch counter at Woolworth's downtown. She also boycotted Fulton School, a segregated Blacks-only school, and fought for its desegregation.

Though the 19th amendment passed in 1920 extending women the right to vote, many African-American women would remain disenfranchised. The 19th Amendment did not eliminate the state laws that operated to keep Black Americans from the polls. Hattie became heavily involved in registering Black voters, especially women, in the community to have their voices be heard as the Civil Rights movement was closing in on ending this discrimination.

Hattie Moseley died in July of 1965 at the age of 66, just one month short of President Lyndon B. Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act into law, giving every American, regardless of sex or color, the right to vote. She was a true pioneer in the Civil Rights movement.

Her life and contributions were recently celebrated with the creation of a mural in downtown Springfield on the WesBanco building on Main Street near Fountain Avenue. This mural of Hattie honors her work, her determination and celebrates not only her fight, but its victories.

Hattie Moseley is buried in Ferncliff Cemetery in Section Y.