In 1938, the Colored Carnival Association (now Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association, or MAMGA) was incorporated under the trusteeship of W. L. Russell, D.D.S., J.T. McKinnis, a local mortician, Sam Besteda, Jr., a local tailor and J.A. Franklin, M.D. Dr. Russell, a respected dentist and civic leader was the first president and served for 50 years, vigorously supporting the Mission Statement to:  “promote knowledge, arts, sciences; to create and cultivate interest in the celebration of carnival activities at Mardi Gras and to encourage its members to participate in all events that will enhance our civic and national betterment.”

In 1938, the Colored Carnival Association (now Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association, or MAMGA) was incorporated under the trusteeship of W. L. Russell, D.D.S., J.T. McKinnis, a local mortician, Sam Besteda, Jr., a local tailor and J.A. Franklin, M.D. Dr. Russell, a respected dentist and civic leader was the first president and served for 50 years, vigorously supporting the Mission Statement to:  “promote knowledge, arts, sciences; to create and cultivate interest in the celebration of carnival activities at Mardi Gras and to encourage its members to participate in all events that will enhance our civic and national betterment.”