The institution was founded in 1873 by the Freedmen’s Aid Society of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. It has thirty teachers, four hundred
students and a property valuation of $200,000.
]
Of the many notable persons who have rendered valuable service to this
society, only two or three of those who are now in the service can be
mentioned here. Reference is made in the school sketches to the long
years given by the presidents of Meharry Medical College, Claflin
University, and Morristown Normal and Industrial College. To these
should be added the name of Bishop W. P. Thirkield, whose wisdom and
energy in the various important positions entrusted to him have
contributed greatly not only to the work of this society, but also to
the general welfare of the colored people.
The executive officers of the society at present, are two corresponding
secretaries and a school inspector. These three officers supervise the
schools and appeal to the white and colored churches for funds to
support the institutions.
[Illustration: