ABOUT US
Who we are and what we do
Charles E. Pope Foundation is dedicated to honoring the remarkable legacy of
Colonel Wiley M. Pope. He and his descendants have contributed significantly to
the pursuit of freedom and justice. In 1860, Colonel Pope with his wife and thirteen children, ultimately secured Kansas's first
emancipation—three years before the National Emancipation Proclamation.
The Pope family was among the first five families to settle in Quindaro, Kansas, a
community that rallied together to support escaped slaves and promote the ideals
of freedom. Today, the ruins of Quindaro stand as a powerful reminder of their
resilience and unity.
Our foundation, led by Colonel Pope's fifth granddaughter, Lisa King, is
committed to empowering individuals and communities by nurturing the same
spirit of love and togetherness that inspired our ancestors. We celebrate our rich
heritage and strive to inspire future generations to thrive.
In addition to Colonel Pope's legacy, we honor the contributions of our family
members who served in various military conflicts. Our uncle, who was married to
the Drake family, served in the 1st Independent Battery, United States Colored
Light Artillery, known as Douglas' Battery, one of the few Union artillery units
commanded by African American officers during the Civil War. Under the
leadership of Captain H. Ford Douglas, a notable abolitionist, this unit participated
in the significant Battle of Westport.
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Furthermore, we recognize the valor of our uncle who fought in the Spanish-
American War as part of the 20th Kansas Volunteer Infantry, primarily composed
of African American soldiers from Kansas, including the Quindaro area. This unit
played a crucial role in the Philippine-American War, continuing the legacy of
African American service and sacrifice in defense of the United States.
Join us as we honor the enduring legacy of Colonel Wiley M. Pope and our
family’s commitment to freedom, empowerment, and the celebration of our shared
history. Together, we work towards a future where liberty and justice are accessible
to all.
Our Legacy: A Story of Love, Justice, and Freedom
The Charles Edward Pope Sr. Foundation (CEPS) is deeply honored to carry forward a legacy rooted in love, justice, and the unyielding pursuit of equality. This extraordinary story begins with our founder, Lisa R. King, who proudly shares her heritage as the fifth granddaughter of Wiley Pope—a name forever etched in the history of Kansas.
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Wiley Pope’s incredible life is marked by his remarkable romance with Lucy, a legally freed slave. Their love story transcended societal boundaries, culminating in the creation of the first known "Deed of Emancipation" in Kansas. This historic document not only symbolized the legal recognition of Lucy’s freedom but also served as a profound statement of justice and humanity during a pivotal time in our nation’s history.
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A Legacy of Love and Justice
The story of Wiley and Lucy is one of courage, resilience, and the transformative power of love. In an era when inequality and oppression were deeply ingrained, their union stood as a beacon of hope and a testament to the belief that love knows no boundaries. Their actions were not just personal; they carried broader implications for the fight for freedom and justice, setting a precedent that resonated far beyond their time.
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Inspiration for the CEPS Foundation
This legacy forms the foundation of CEPS and inspires our mission to advocate for equality, uplift communities, and create opportunities for growth and empowerment. The story of Wiley and Lucy reminds us of the ongoing importance of standing against injustice and striving for a world where everyone is valued and respected.
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Their legacy is more than a historical milestone; it is a call to action, urging each of us to continue the work of fostering equality, compassion, and understanding in every corner of society.
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Continuing the Struggle for Freedom and Equality
While Wiley and Lucy’s story reflects a monumental achievement in Kansas history, it also highlights the unfinished journey toward true equality. The CEPS Foundation honors their legacy by working tirelessly to address modern challenges, promote social justice, and ensure that their story continues to inspire future generations.
Through our programs and initiatives, we seek to extend the values Wiley and Lucy embodied—compassion, love, justice, and an unwavering commitment to freedom—into every aspect of our work.
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The CEPS Foundation invites you to join us in celebrating this incredible legacy and carrying forward the mission it represents. Together, we can honor the past while building a brighter, more equitable future for all.