But on Hayes Pond, the state’s public position was clear.

The Klan had created the problem.

This helped isolate Cole further.

He could not easily portray himself as the defender of local white society when the governor, local officials, and many white residents wanted him gone.

The Klan’s social power depends on the belief that it speaks for a broader silent majority.

Hayes Pond damaged that claim.

The Lumbee rejected it.

Local officials rejected it.

The state government rejected it.

The national press mocked it.