The Fisk Jubilee Singers were originally started as a fundraising effort for Fisk University. Fisk University is a Historically black University that was founded in 1866 by the African Missionary Association. In 1871 the college faced financial troubles. In order to prevent bankruptcy, George L. White, The universities treasures and musical director, decided to put together a choir made up of 9 members. There was 5 black women who names were Ella Sheppard, Maggie Porter, Minnie Tate, Jennie Jackson, Eliza Walker. Along with 4 black men who’s names were, Isaac Dickerson, Ben Holmes, Greene Evans, Thomas Rutling. The Fisk Jubilee Singers traveled the country in attempted to make money for their school.