Freedmen's Bureau Records: John Scott to R. M.
Manly, March 13, 1869
Summary:
Scott alludes to the ongoing problems in Staunton with finding space for school
rooms, noting that he and his school were "driven out" of the church they were
using by the minister himself. Scott asks about the Peabody Fund and if they
would be able to get money to build a school house on land already owned by the
black community.
AMERICAN MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION
The American Missionary Association, (Central
Office, 53 John Street, New York) has been working twenty years for the African
race. Since the beginning of the Rebellion it has turned special attention to
the Freedmen. Whatever a wise Christian benevolence prompts in their behalf, by
way of Common Schools, Normal Schools, Orphan Homes, Relief of the suffering,
and direct religious effort, the Association undertakes, to the full extent of
the means furnished by the friends of the colored people. The Teachers and
Missionaries last year numbered over 500.
Rev. R. M. Manley
Richmond, Va.
Mar 13, 1869
Staunton, Va.
Dear Sir
I have already stated the trouble that I have had in regard to the colored people about a school house. I never before was turned out-doors by any-body until the school with their teacher was driven out of the church by the colored minister.
And the school will never be very successful until there is a school house here.
We want a building large enough to accomodate 800 scholars. Now how can we
obtain it. The colored people ar already in debt - having just purchased a
cemetery for $1200 and the baptist denomination are now
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trying to
build a church.
I have made application to the Gov't for aid and find the appropriation exhausted.
The colored people have land here, now, can any money for the building of school houses be obtained from the Peabody fund on any condition, and if so, on what condition.
Have you any circulars or printed information.
There is I suppose an Agt. in this city, but I am entirely unacquainted with the business methods of applying for this fund or with the specific object of it further than the newspaper acct of such a fund having been left for the benefit of schools in the country.
If it can be properly used for such a purpose I would like to obtain something for a school building.
Very Respectfully
John Scott
