REPORT

OF THE

EXECUTIVE BOARD

OF

FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION

FOR THE

Aid any Elevation of the freedmen,

READ AT THE MEETING OF THE ASSOCIATION,

Fifth Month 1lith, 1864}

“PHILADELPHIA:
MERRIHEW & THOMPSON, PRINTERS,
No. 243 Arch Street.

1864.

 
REPORT.

During the prevalence of the existing civil war, which has
desolated large portions of our country, and destroyed the lives
of many thousands of its citizens, it has been our privilege to
witness a great social revolution, in which four millions of
bondmen—descendants of the African race—have received a
guarantee from the government of their natural right to life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. :

Degraded by 200 years of slavery—during which their lot
has been to toil without reward, generally at the most labo-
rious and unskilled labor, debarred by law from the light of
knowledge, constrained to the habitual violation of the most
sacred instincts of humanity, and accustomed to the severance
of the tenderest ties of relationship—these newly-made freed-
men have suddenly presented to them the hopes and aspira-
tions of freedom, with its incentives to voluntary labor and
accumulation—to the pursuit of knowledge, and of all those
improving influences which elevate man in the scale of being.

The perils and sufferings incident to such a great social
revolution are aggravated by the desolating warfare carried on
in the midst of the scenes of their former oppression. In the
unprecedented scarcity of the necessaries of life and the miser-
ies growing out of the barbarities of war, the negroes are suf-
ferers in common with their former masters, and with the
large class of non-slaveholding whites. The armies which
have alternately swept the border States, while they have
opened the avenues of liberty to the uncomplaining negro, and
sent him forth from the prison-house with his limbs unshackled,
and his heart raised in thankfulness and praise, have left him
without the appliances for successful labor, or an opportunity to
work ayailingly even for a scanty support. Most of the able-
ae <&

bodied men are immediately taken from their families into the
employ of the Government, while large numbers of women
and children, with the aged and infirm, are congregated in
temporary camps, sheltered by the abandoned tents of soldiers,
or other insufficient protection from the weather; in some lo-
calities they are the victims of infectious diseases, destitute of
adequate medical attendance or supplies, and in many instances
without kindly sympathy and intelligent counsel which could
be made available in their extremity.

This state of things, which has existed toa greater or less
extent since the commencement of the war, has been a mute
appeal to the benevolence of the people of the Northern States,
which was not long in finding a response. The hearts of thou-
sands of men and women went forth to their aid, and not a few
from New England, the far West, and from our own city and
State, found place among them as ministers of good, and dis-
pensers of the open-handed charity of others; opening in some
degree an avenue through which the debt we all owe to this
abused race may be repaid by acts of Christian sympathy —
and kindness. aie

It was in view of these requirements that the first organized
effort was made by our female friends, on the 15th of 4th mo.,
1862, acting under the title of the “ Women’s Association of
Philadelphia for the Relief of the Freedmen.” They were
subsequently aided by a Finance Committee of men and, with
the exception of a short recess in the summer of 1862, have
continued their labors to the present time,

In their first annual report, dated 4th mo., 1863, they report,
as furnished, with the aid of auxiliary associations, and con-
tributions from Friends in various parts of the Yearly Meeting,
2,700 part worn, and 4,378 rew garments. ‘T'wenty-seven
cases containing, in addition to the clothing, several pieces of
uncut goods, comfortables, blankets, books, pictures, toys;
medicines, farina, and dried fruit for the sick ; thimbles, needles,
thread, buttons, &c., were sent to Washington, Yorktown,
Gloucester Point, Port Royal, and Craney and St. Simon’s
Islands ; also to Cincinnati, to be forwarded to the South-west.

The contributions in money to that date amounted to
5

$2,903.01, which was almost exclusively appropriated to the
purchase of material for clothing.

The Small-pox “ Contraband” hospital at WW adbibitins was
indifferently supplied with nurses, and the compensation offered
by Governmant being insufficient to secure them, the associa-
tion furnished the necessary funds, and sent two experienced
colored men, whose services were very valuable, both in taking
care of the sick, and in teaching the art of nursing to the
colored inmates of the camp.

The second year’s proceedings of the Women’s Association
have been the subject of a report just published, and in this
connection it will only be necessary to state that their receipts
during the year, exclusive of the funds received from this
Association, have amounted to $8,890.51, which have also been
expended chiefly in procuring suitable materials for clothing.
With the aid of 84 auxiliary sewing circles they have com-
pleted 18,212 garments, mostly adapted to women and chil-
dren; most of these garments have been distributed through-
out the various localities where a pressing necessity for this
kind of aid became apparent. This aggregate, exceeding
20,000 garments in the two years of labor, though bearing so
small a proportion to the vast numbers of the suffering people,
has been the means of relieving much destitution, while it has
promoted among the members of this useful organization a
feeling of love and mutual regard, strengthened by the con-
sciousness of being united in a wood work,

It was, however, soon found that much more was required
than an attention to the physical wants of the freedmen; and
it was with this view, as also to promote the efficiency of the
Women’s Association, that on the 6th of the First month of.
the present year, a number of Friends of both sexes formed
“ Friends’ Association for the Aid and Elevation of the Freed-
“men.” .

The affairs of this Association have been mainly intrusted
to an Executive Board composed of Friends of both sexes, to
a Collecting Committee who have been actively engaged in
soliciting funds, and to a Committee on Education who have
especially kept in view the claims of the schools already estab-
lished among the freed people, and the establishment of indus-
trial and other schools as opportunity might offer.
6

By an address issued early after the establishment of
the Association, Friends in other sections, and especially
throughout the various Quarterly Meetings composing our own
Yearly Meeting, were informed of our movements, and invited
to co-operate by the formation of auxiliary Associations, or by
the collection of funds to be intrusted to our disposal. In
response to this, which was read at the close of a number of
the Monthly and Preparative Meetings, we have received some
contributions and evidences of increased interest in the cause
among our friends in the country, and we are not without hope:
that the subject may yet take stronger hold upon. Friends in
the rural districts, and that they will more generally co-operate
in this concern. 97

The Treasurer of Friends’ Association for the Aid and Hle-
vation of the Freedmen, reports the following amounts received
up to this time:

From City Contributors. .........s0-seeeese Ucankuarescavecunusap sbucesbel inten Sik $5,936 00
« Friends and others of Trenton, N. J...ccssscccccescsesercesserscenecers 135 90
ae “ of Middletown, Del.......sessossses dissUeios toeun dee eb dekectte! See
“ -a Friend of Lancaster Co., Penna.......seeecseeeesscesees teshecbbesanbi’ 20 00
«“ Friends of Middletown Monthly Meeting, Pa......... y wedaccts tuneyy 158 55
ee ni Kennett ~ ee et omsveuseebuned fosnevewes oO ae an
« " London Grove “ MMe uky vel Ubisacaeaeesney 251 75

+ 46 is Camden o . Deliisciabsuiapsed clipes vaO reo
(act yi att and others of Westchester Preparative Meeting...... 156 00
iu & and others of Bart rs Ree tata lgs 36 00
“ é¢ Newtown dy Oe geen 32 00
“« ss FOV OMHAME SN Force ie eevecesd sve eesecedscetevenden -' + 26°00
“ Ke and others of Meriden and Wheatland, N. Y. Prepa-

BALIVIE: MOCLIN GR. siisiaiis chil consvoicinor ve sv seompnaie-y uwbennes nie leene
Bo and others of Penn’s Grove Preparative Meeting, Pa. 25 00
“ “ es Falls Monthly Meeting, Pa................... 173 16
i “ “ Piles-Grove Preparative Meeting, N. J... 70 15
dbrik “ “ Darby Monthly Meeting, Pa............. wee 200 00
“ “ “ Fallowfield Ai) ash kennel ondeids RAD
“ “ ot Farmington Monthly Meeting, N. Y. ..... 40 00
is “ &“ Alloways Creek Preparative Meeting... 35 00
« “ ' “ Centre Monthly Meeting, Del................ 130 00

ant “ “ Richland Preparative Meeting, Pa......... 64 00
“ " “ Bristol ef ¢ svobroveie MR4ed

_« “ “Merion “ +f ales 30 00
‘“ 4“ “ in the vicinity of Buckingham, Pa......... 91 00

ee

\ Total. eeoeorededesse reeeerer SEERA te setanees Senter ssackineedonnonaveneeeneniee 86
7

'. Our attention has-been much engaged in an examination of

the field of labor before us, with a view to ascertain how far

an industrial or agricultural colony should be established and

maintained under our charge; and we have endeavored to

husband our resources until our views should be more matured
upon this and other subjects connected with the work, yet we

have not failed to extend all the aid in our power in special

locations in which suffering and want have come to our know-

ledge, contributing to the support of schools among the freed

people, and furnishing such supplies as were most needed.

'. Our attention having been called to a freedman’s camp, ten

miles from Alexandria, Virginia, in need of a school, we have

recently employed and sent as a teacher to the locality our

friend Sarah Ann Cadwalader. We have supplied her with

most of the requisites for her undertaking, and are recently

informed by letter of her arrival at Camp Rucker, the scene of

her duties. Though the situation is not free from difficulties _
and embarrassments, her efforts promise to be of much service
to the freed people collected there.

The communities of freedmen under the care of Lucy Chase,
at Norfolk, of Susan H. Clark, near Fortress Monroe, of Emily
Howland, at Camp Todd, Va., earnest workers for their im-
provement, also those collected in large numbers near Prairie
Grove, Iowa, have been profited by the judicious distribution
‘of the supplies sent out by this Association, as testified by let-
ters from which some extracts are appended.

With a view to ascertain how and where we can work most
availably in furtherance of the objects we have in view, our
friends, Henry W. Ridgway and Josiah Wilson, have recently
made a tour through portions of Gen. Butler’s department, the
results of which will be reported by them at the present meet-
ing.

With a view to increasing the interest in the cause in behalf
of which we have assembled, and informing our Friends upon
the nature and extent of the work before us, we have selected
from the letters received by our Corresponding Secretary, some
extracts which we append, and to which we ask the attention of
all.
8

Lucy Coase, Norfolk, Va., 3d mo. 27th, writes as follows:

“T am very glad to hear that you are turning your plough into wiad? .
fields. I would suggest to you, that you would establish among contra-
bands Industrial Schools. I think you would do well, yea, very well, if
you would send out here, or elsewhere, or every where, young men to
establish and superintend shoe-making and cobbling. If you would, as
far as practicable, dispense your charities directly through your agents,
you would feel a satisfaction that you cannot now feel. Charity is still
needed here, as well as elsewhere. The negroes who earn wages, do not
receive enough to buy clothing for their families, and there is still, and
will continue to be, a large pauper community. Still I can but feel that
the crying need is in the West. If judicious persons administer to the
contrabands there, you might well feel that a penny spent there, would
do more good than two spent here. Yet the need here is never met,
and the Norfolk poor I am utterly unable to assist. :

Seven hundred negroes came in a body a few days ago, each with some
tie sundered, but joy, exultant joy abounding, and sweet and peaceful
satisfaction enriching the heart of every tired wanderer. To-day, one
of our ladies tried to urge an aunt to send to the Orphan Asylum two
young children, who were under her care. She said she promised her
sister she would watch over them, and of her last crust they should
surely have half. A woman in our neighborhood said, to-day, that on a
recent visit of hers to the rope-walk, she spied her mother, whom she
had not seen for twenty years! ‘Oh, yes, I reckon I did know her, and
I took her right to my home, and I’m going to keep here there, too.’
Another woman lost a beautiful grandchi’d a day or two ago. When I
spoke of the white folds of its raiment, she said, ‘Oh, yes, I made a nice
little shroud for him; and now he’s splendid, and genteel encugh to meet —
his Saviour.’ lve been the mother of fourteen children,’ the good
woman said, ‘and I’ve seen three die in my lap. I never cried. No, in-
deed. I always thanked the Lord when he took my children away. I
washed ’em, and I dressed ’em, and I put ’em in the box. and I nailed it
down, and my old man put it in the ground; and I went right to the
ironing-table and to the cooking-stove, and I thanked the Lord. I had
suffered too much to want them here, aud I knew they would suffer, and
I know the Lord did all things right. No, indeed, I never cried when
my children died.’

All the charity of the North could be judiciously expended here. Of —
the absolute poor there are enough to absorb it. Yet the need is greater
in the West. I will not be too selfish to deny it. The warm weather is
at hand, and most of the needy can withstand their needs. I long to
have you noble people of New York and Philadelphia, put your wealth
into new channels. Open work-shops here, pray do, and that at once.
Let a woman be sent to one to work a few hours, till she has earned a
garment, and then give her a ticket for one. Open the way for every one

to earn everything he receives. Work is the great need. How can we
_ ask people to pay us for clothing when they have no money, and can

y
9

make none? Government does wonderfully well. It feedsall. It offers
land anda cabin to each. It pays small wages to those who use the
spade, and it does its full duty. But it cares for the body only. It cannot
make men and women. It does its best to compel each able-bodied per-
son to work, but it necessarily leaves many available avenues of industry
unopened. hese Northern philanthropy can command.”

From Harriet Jacoss, Alexandria, Va.,3d mo. 22d, 1864.

“JT have been laboring among the Freedmen for the past fifteen
months. In looking back on the miserable condition in which I found
them, and contrast it with to-day, I am convinced the negroes are not so
far behind other races as they are represented to be, if only justice is
meted to them. When I came to this place, I found, in a few miserable
dwellings, old foundries, old breweries, old mills, and a school house,
thousands of men, women and children crowded together, the small-pox
raging among them; sick from other diseases; dying, on the average, from
five to seven a day, without bedding, without a change of clothing, with-
out nourishment, without the commonest necessaries for the comfort of
the sick and dying. These painful sights have almost disappeared ;
though I find many who need help, it is not a general thing. All who
come in from beyond our lines are very destitute. We give them cloth-
ing. The old and infirm must be fed and clothed—the orphans must be
remembered—the hospitals must be supplied. We have seven thousand
colored people in our midst. I would not have you believe the above
mentioned represents the larger portion of this people; far from it. Not
one-third are dependent on others where they can work; they are fast
learning to think and act for themselves. I can see the results—it takes
time for them to realize that they are free men and women.

At the present time Government issues less than four hundred rations
to colored people in Alexandria.

Within the last eight months seven hundred small houses have been
erected by the Freedmen in this place. We have ten colored schools,
which are all well attended; and it is encouraging to see how eager they
are tolearn. The largest achoal house was built by the Freedmen, and »
they own it as their property.”

From Lavra Towng, St. Helenaville, S. C., 3d mo. 27, 1864.

‘“‘T am happy to be able to report a decided improvement in the health
of our island, and, nearly every person on it having been through the
small-pox, we are free from apprehension regarding any such time of
suffering among the people as last winter was. This disease has pre-
vailed very widely, and we hardly see a face not marked with it. Neither
vaccination, nor having had it before, prevented its occurring violently
in some cases. There were many instances of devotion to the sick, and:
disregard of personal safety among the people, but so much ignorance
and prejudice, that the ey of the disease was fostered, and its fatal-
ity greatly increased.

_ The progress of the people towards enlightenment and comfort is very
10

cheering. When I came here, about two years ago, the cabing were un-
swept and unscrubbed, unlighted, except by slips of ‘fat’ pine, called
‘lighters, and totally unfurnished with dishes, spoons, &c., except where
those taken from the residences of the masters had been hidden away.
Now the people use kerosene lamps in many cases, and have neat
shelves with tin and crockery. They have even window-sashes in some
of the more ambitious cabins. One man said to me, ‘ Oh, I didn’t neber:
feel so happy till I wake in de night and saw de moon shining in, till 1
could see most like de day time.’ Their old cabins have only board
shutter, which they keep close shut at night, summer and winter, and
consequently this man had grown old without ever before seeing the
moon shining through his window-pane, to cheer the night. An old
woman was walking one Saturday down one of their streets (which
they call ‘de nigger-house yard’) with me, and called my attention to
the scrubbing and splashing going on in nearly every house. She laughed
heartily as she said ‘dey neber forgets Mrs. Johnson and Miss Mary,
and how dey set all de plantation to scrubbing ebery Saturday. Dey
keeps it up; but some seems like dey don’t know Secesh bin gone, dey ’s
so dirty.’ Mrs. Johnson and Miss Donelson were among the first comers
by the Atlantic, and their lessons have been well remembered, and with
gratitude and affection. The honses had no gardens about them. Now
every one that I have seen this spring has a little patch fenced in, and
in many of them, peas are up and neatly staked, almost in blossom.
There is nothing, except land, which they desire so eagerly as garden
seeds. These they really need, for the stores have not supplied them.
They show, also, a proper sense of the value of implements, and work-
ing animals; and in the late sales of confiscated property they have paid
enormous prices for mules and horses; the people all clubbing together
to buy a plough-horse, where no one could afford it. In their dress the
change is very striking, especially in the school children. They begin to
look like northern scholars, instead of patched or ragged, and often,
half naked little savages. One of the young girls at ‘the Oaks’ was
married a few days ago, and we hear that the wedding was really stylish,
for dress, cake, &c. We have no stronger wish than to see weddings
made of consequence, and duly celebrated with attraction and impres-
sive ceremonies; and we have done all we could to discourage the care-
lessness about the matter, which we found to prevail here, though there
were a few grand weddings from the first. There is a decided change
for the better in most social respects; the care of infants, for example,
the behavior of young persons and the proper emulation in respecta-
bility.
._ You ask of the people’s needs.. They are nearly all not only self-sup-
_ porting, but growing comfortable in circumstances. They need good

-stores, good schools, good preachers, and good laws, and I think they
will want nothing more. If Government will only protect them in their
industry, and give them the homesteads they pray for, they will make
good sons of the republic, and some day, I hope, good citizens. But had
it not been for Gen. Saxton’s judicious care, I do not know what might
i

11

haye been their state. If they had been taught by him tu depend upon
Government for their support, instead of being steadily urged and com-
pelled to take work and support themselves, they might have been fos-
tered into pauperism ; and on the other hand, if he had not protected
them against fraud, they might have been discouraged into pauperism, by
being cheated of the fruits of their labor. His judicious order last win-

_ ter, that no cotton should leave the department till the laborers had

been paid for it by those who hired them, gave peace and content to
many an uncertain mind. It also gave a confidence in Government, and
its protection of their rights, which even the late unfortunate contradic-
tion of orders by the powers in Washington, concerning pre-emption
claims, has not quite shaken.”

Exizaseta Bonp, Young’s Point, La., 4th mo. 3d, 1864, writes:

“‘ My time is almost entirely occupied with my school, which is now my
world. Iam never at a loss for employment while I have the care of so
many, who not only must be taught book knowledge, but every thing. I
opened school here in a rough log house, thirty feet square, and so open
that the crevices admitted light sufficient, without the aid of windows.
The furniture consisted of undressed plank benches without backs, from
ten to twelve feet long, and in the centre of the room stood an old steam-
boat stove, four feet long, which had been taken out of the river. The
house stands but a few steps from the river bank. All I had to com-
mence with was some old charts, very inferior, which I picked up in
camp. They had been sent here last summer, and were used by a colored
man, who could read some, and who taught school for a short time out of
doors. In this way several learned the alphabet, and could spell in two
letters. I had been teaching five weeks before the arrival of books and
slates. I commenced school with one hundred and thirty scholars, varying
in age from four to forty years, and of every shade, from coal black to
almost white, with light hair and blue eyes. They were wild, very desti-
tute of clothing, and in personal appearance extremely filthy. But I am
happy to say they are very apt; and it was surprising to see the change
wrought in a few weeks—clean clothes, combed hair, and washed faces.
It is astonishing, the eagerness they manifest for learning. I never walk
out in camp but I see them busily engaged with book in hand, and as 1
pass the different huts, hear them conning over their lessons. Often, up

the river bank and levees, they are to be séen collected in groups, spell-

ing and giving out words to each other, Their study does not close with
school hours, but is almost constantly kept up; it seems to be their chief
delight.

I think if the children of the North, who are surrounded with every
luxury and blessing, could witness the earnest application of these, who
are deprived of almost every comfort of life, that it would arouse them to |
greater zeal in improving their countless opportunities for knowledge.
During the time I have been teaching, which is four months, I have had
in all two hundred scholars, one hundred and thirty of whom have learned
to read well. | They have learned considerable Geography, and some
12

Arithmetic, which I teach them from the black-board. They are quite
ready in committing to memory texts of Scripture and declumations. I
have fifteen writing neatly in copy books, and the remainder write well on
their slates. In the two schools, at this point, there have been admitted
four hundred pupils. We are supplied with a sufficiency of books, slates,
&c., although there has been a lack in many other camps, but it would
not be advisable to send supplies now, as the schools will nearly all close
until next fall, and the teachers go home. All that is needed to success-
fully educate with in the North, is needed for this people, and I hope the
time will speedily come when there will be an army of earnest, live teach-
ers engaged in this field, who have the welfare of this people at heart, for
truly the harvest is great, and rightly concerned laborers few.

Taeresa James, under date Newbern, N. C., 4th mo. 5th, 1864, writes:

“You have doubtless heard of the most immediate causes of suffering
here, during the past winter, the unusual severity of the weather, the
frightful prevalence of the small-pox, and the late attack on this place, in
which many, living without the line of fortifications, lost their all. The
ever welcome summer, now approaching, will relieve them in a great de-
grec, and the number of small-pox patients is rapidly diminishing, but
with the warm weather will come the malarious diseases ‘of this climate,
keeping the hospital partially filled. As the Sanitary Commission does
nothing for contrabands, hospital supplies are always needed, such as
bedding, ‘cotton shirts and drawers, together with all the various delica-
cies to tempt the sickly appetite.

Although what has been accomplished in this vast field of labor seems
but a drop in the bucket, yet there is every reason for encouragement in
the very visible progress made towards enlightenment. The schools, I
think, are a great incentive to industry. That cleanliness is next to
godliness, and almost godliness itself, is an article of faith which must be
most persistently set before them. A child makes its appearance neatly
washed and dressed, and, human nature working the same in blacks as in
whites, straightway his neighbor’s is inspired with a zeal to equal, if not
outshine his companion, and thus a gradual reformation takes place in the
whole school. Many are quite unable to dress even decently. The va-
rious teachers are in the habit of singling out the most needy of their pu-
pils and clothing them, thus making bright eyes grow brighter, and faint
hearts more confident, while many a mother blesses the kind people of ‘de
norf’ that. her child is not only ‘ getten right smart of larning,’ but that
it can appear equally well clothed as its companions. In constant labor
among this people, one is excited with every variety of emotion, with un-
bounded mirth at their shrewd wit, or deepest pity at some tale of wrong
and woe.”

Susan H. Cxuarx, a teacher at Mill Creek, near Fortress Monroe,
writes as follows: :
: “ Please tender our thanks to and friends for their interest
manifested in our undertaking, by sending us clothing, which was very

 
13

good and useful, We were enabled to make many more comfortable,
although many are still needy. We visited each family before giving out —
the pieces, for we find much deception is used.

Almost everything we see in priat about the Freedmen is in the bright-
est light, and the fairest colors, but Z think it is right to look at both
sides of the question. During the time I have been amongst them, I
have seen much that is commendable, as well as much that is wrong and
sinful, but I view the latter with a great deal of charity.

Some amongst us are using great exertions to make their homes and
families comfortable. The men are, to a great extent, employed in some
way inthe service of Government, and many of them far away from
their families, in such cases the wife working hard to maintain the
children. These find employment in washing and huckstering. Although
they do not know how to spend their money to the best advantage, and
waste much of it on trifles, still our people have built themselves a nice
plank church, and the ladies have furnished it very comfortably. They
feel it as a sacred place, and we sometimes think they worship the very
building.

It is the first church they could call their own, and they give their
money freely to support it. They are now about to erect a log school
house for us. As a general thing they are anxious to learn, and our
night session has been one of interest. We find them very ignorant ;
they know nothing about the Government, the United States, the Presi-
dent, or the laws of the land. The knowledge of these we have been
trying to instil into their minds, and of which they never seem to be
weary. Except in a few instances, they knew nothing about the months,
and have no conception of time. We feel that it is a great work to teach
them, and should we effect but little with the parents, our great hope is
with the children. Their religion is one of faith, and yet one of strong
excitement and feeling. They do not think they have had a good time
unless they can make a noise. They believe the promises of God as far
as they are acquainted with them, and certainly endure much without
murmuring. Their prayers are repetitions and much the same, and yet
put up in much earnestness, and, as we believe, have called down the
blessing of God.

They contrast their situation now with what it was, and speak of it
with much feeling. A great number have dear ones still in chains,
and if you could hear their prayers, see their tears, and listen to
their story, you would think they were not devoid of feeling. They have
always compared themselves to the Children of Israel, and think that
their journeying is not over until they reach the Heavenly Canaan.

Our schools are doing well, and we think the scholars are improving
in every way.”

Wiuram F, Mrrcnet, writing to a member of our Board, from Steven-
son, Alabama, 4th mo. 19th, 1864, says:
“T know that what thou most wishes to hear is of the Freedmen, and
14

of them I am full to-vight, and all the time. I have but to walk a few
handred yards to find myself in a cluster of cabins, the refuge of the
Israel of Tennessee. Twice to-day I have met their children, and wit- _
nessed such eagerness for knowledge, as became of itself inspiration. If
I were to speak of the colored refugees of Nashville, I should tell a tale
of sorrow and suffering, and there would rise before me the long line of
army wagons filled with women and children, for the wretched contraband
camp; at Huntsville, Ala., of families turned out of their houses be-
cause their children are allowed to go to school; at Columbia, of a teacher
publicly whipped for teaching school. Nevertheless the work progresses.
Where the Freedmen will most congregate it is impossible to tell. The
War Department aims to push them back in order to bring them nearer
the source of supplies, but they are permitted to tarry at points, build
cabins and have schools, and we work at these points. At such a point
Iam now engaged. Here are five hundred colored people, and I would
give a great deal if thou could see them. For instance, here is a large
blacksmith shop full of colored mechanics, and here is another shop full
of carpenters and wagon makers. No idleness here, Some of the
masters of these are living just beyond the mountains, and the colored

man does not feel sure of his freedom, but he is hopeful and patient.
* * * * * *% * * * .

The contraband camp at Huntsville was the residence formerly of
Ex-Governor Chapman. It consists of a large building with negro
quarters all around it. Here are two hundred and fifty women and
children, When I visited them, about one-third of them were down
with the measels, and one, a young mother, was dying. It occurred to
me at the time, as I witnessed the destitution of these people, that if a
few of your boxes could be sent by Adams Express direct to Huntsville,
they would be well bestowed.

Nothing affected me so much here as to see men, in the prime of life,
crippled and ruined by being worked out in the rain, At every step
here, it is apparent that a mighty purpose is in process of development.

The colored regiments at Nashville are very interesting. The 15th
has two tents for schools. In these are benches for twenty men, and
beginning with 7} a. m., men drop in all day long, and are instructed as
ours were last winter evenings. In this camp are five teachers.. One
young lad has a tent and residence in the camp. It is much to be re-
gretted that the colored people are being pushed into Nashville. The
mortality among them is very great.”

The general tone of these letters and the information received
from other sources, seem te justify the direction of our efforts
more toward the moral and intellectual training of the freedmen,
than toward the bestowal of indiscriminate charity. Their lot
must ultimately be to form self-sustaining communities, in which
they shall, by intelligent and well-directed industry, be able to
15

supply all their wants. Many of the women who have been em-
ployed as field hands by their masters do not understand the
first rudiments of house-keeping ; they have never learned to sew,
nor to cook, nor to observe cleanliness in their persons or houses.
The art of providing, and spending their money with judgment
and economy, is almost unknown among them, and like impulsive
children, many spend their earnings in haste upon whatever
strikes their uncultivated fancy. __

The proposal to send out a portion of the clothing to be vt
up by the recipients, thus. promoting a disposition to work for
themselves, has been acted upon by the Women’s Association,
and our agents, to whom we have forwarded made up-garments,
have been encouraged to offer them for sale at such prices as fall
within the means of the purchasers, thus further encouraging a
feeling of independence. ‘The establishment of stores, at which
the necessaries of life are sold at cost, has been found a most
useful means of benefitting these people, guarding them against _
the evils to which they are subjected in dealing with mercenary
and unprincipled sutlers.

As already adverted to, the establishment of an Agricultural
Colony under our exclusive control, has from the first been a
leading idea with some of our members, and a committee has had
the subject under consideration. ‘The course pursued so advan-
tageously by Friends in their intercourse with the Indian tribes
has been looked upon as a precedent to be followed in our efforts
for the good of the African race. |

We are aware that, in carrying out these suggestions, difficul-
ties are presented at every step, but as we stand ready to embrace
every right opening for labor, we hope to be made useful in ex-
tending the hand of help towards this suffering people. To do
so will require some sacrifice, a unity of feeling and of action,
and a generous liberality on the part of those who have the
means and disposition to contribute liberally of their substance,
as the Lord has blessed them.

The question which has presented itself so impressively to all:
who will feed these hungry, clothe these naked, lift the veil of ig-
norance which covers their minds, and direct their industry into
channels leading to accumulation and thrift ? would seem to come
with peculiar force to the members of the Society of Friends,
16

who have been regarded, since the settlement of the country, as
the friends and protectors of this oppressed race. Pioneers in
the great movement which freed the Northern States from the
sin and blight of slavery, Friends have long since washed their
hands of the iniquity of slave holding, and haye, with more or
less faithfulness, borne aloft before the nation a testimony
against it. In an official capacity, the Society has not been
wanting in repeated and urgent appeals to those in authority,
‘to let the oppressed go free,” that so the sword of the avenger
- might remain unsheathed, and it has also labored in the past to
educate and improve the free people of: color, and to remove
those disabilities which have obstructed their:progress in the pur-
suits of civilized life.

The example of some of our predecessors in religious profes-
sion, who, through good and evil report, labored in the meek-
ness of wisdom, and with unflinching firmness, as advocates of
human rights and as friends of the friendless negro, should be
cherished by us as incentives to the work of our day. When the
panting fugitive escaped from the house of bondage and came to
their doors—a stranger in a strange land,—they took him in;
finding him hungry, they fed him; thirsty, they gave him drink ;
naked, they clothed him, and like the good Samaritan, sent him
on his way, rejoicing. Shall we then hesitate to enter into their
labors, in the wider field which is now opening before us ?

There are those among us, of both sexes, in the vigor of life, .
who feel a deep interest in this cause, and who may be so sit-
uated as to spend a portion of their time in the active prosecu-
tion of the work in which we are enlisted. If some of this des-
cription, who have enjoyed the advantages of home culture and
its refining influences, were willing to make the necessary sacri-
fices and dwell among them, even for a short time, imparting the
elements of knowledge, and teaching them the arts of civilized
life, they would surely find their own spirits quickened by inter-
course with a race so full of simple faith and love, and their
characters elevated and strengthened as they were brought to
realize ‘‘that it is more blessed to give than to receive.”
2 4 Saute

 

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earl MSI NINN NIP NIN AS NAR RP NSA SPL NP NLL OPIN LNA DA A AE ENE Pn eNOS,

FIRST ANNUAL REPORT

5 L_ eee ae

2 OF THE

BOARD OF MANAGERS

| ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS

NO
* 2

AD AND ELEVATION OF THE FREEDMEN,

PN NL INL Na Nl Vee Na al al Ne ll tl al Nal Na, N

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| WITH A LIST OF - !
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5 ,
pct OFFICERS FOR THE YEAR 1865. |
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| PHILADELPHIA: ;
i" MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS, }
No. 243 Arch Street, below Third Street. :
“ ; 1865. |
Bee ek de ka a i ee St ee ee :

 

 

 

 
FIRST ANNUAL REPORT |

BOARD OF MANAGERS

OF THE

ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS

AID AND ELEVATION OF THE FREEDMEN.

WITH A LIST OF

OFFICERS FOR THE YEAR 1865.

PHILADELPHIA:
MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS,
No. 243 Arch Street, below Third Street.
1865.

 
* OFFICERS.

 

CLERKS,

_ WILLIAM.M. LEVICK,
EDITH W. ATLEE.

TREASURER,

MACPHERSON SAUNDERS,

BOARD OF MANAGERS.

JAMES Mort,

DILLwyn ParrisH,
MACPHERSON SAUNDERS,
Joun WILson Moors,
Spencer Roperrs,
Witi1AM Dorsey,
Henry M. Laine,
Jacop M. E:t1s,
JOSEPH POWELL,
JosEPH M. Truman, JR.,
Natuan W. Extis,
Frankuin S. Wisson,
EDWARD Parrish,
GrorGE W. Rogtns,
Tuomas GARRIGUES,
SamueL H. Garrtey,
-Epmunp WEBSTER,
WitiiamM M. Levick.

Lucretia Mort,
Racuet T. Jackson,
Desoran F. Wuarton,
Racuet W. Moors,
Louisa J. Roserrs,
Margaret A. Griscom,
Harriet HE. Stockty,
Racuet M. Brppie,
ANNE SHOEMAKER,
Heten G. Lonestrern,
Lypia GitLinaHaM,
Maraaret S. Parris,
Martua Dopason,
Mary P. Witson,
Epira W. AtTLEE.

W. Canny Bippus, Ree. See’y.

Saran W. Barker,

Corresponding Sec’y.
REPORT.

 

We deem it needless at this time to elaborate an argument
to convince of the necessity for earnest, unfaltering service in
the ever-enlarging field into which we have entered. It is suffi-
cient only “to lift up our eyes and look upon the fields” that
we may know they ‘‘are ripe already to harvest,” and therefore,
the call for laborers is pressing and imperative.

Being desirous that this offering of our gleanings should give
the receiver a clear understanding of our work during the past
year, a repetition of former publications has been unavoidable.

Impressed with the immediate need of attention to the welfare
of the colored people in our country liberated from bondage, a
large company gathered in Friends’ Meeting House on Race St.,
First month 6th, 1864, and organized “‘ Friends’ Association for
the Aid and Elevation of the Freedmen,” adopted a Constitution, —
appointed a Finance Committee, and an Executive Board which
has met twice in each month during most of the year.

At their meeting First month 12th, 1864, an Address, solicit-

ing the co-operation of the members of Philadelphia Yearly Meet-
ing of Friends was read, approved and referred to a committee for
circulation, with a desire that it should be read in Monthly and
other meetings.

The response to this appeal gave encouragement to believe that
the continued aid of Friends would be-freely given in the work
before us, and, therefore, with renewed earnestness, we made
preparations to hear the cries of the needy, and, according to
our means and ability, to endeavor to relieve their sufferings.

A committee was formed for the judicious distribution of sup-
plies at a meeting of the Executive Board, First month 6th, and,
at the same time, a proposition was introduced to send teachers
4

among the freed people, which was considered and referred to
the Association, recommending the appointment of an Educa-
tional Committee to unite with one from the Board. This was
approved at the next meeting, and the Committee then appointed
continued to act until the Association decided to entrust this in-
teresting and important portion of nenwce: to the committee of
the Executive Board.

With the view of ascertaining the pp field for opera-
tion, the Executive Board, in the Second month, requested the
Corresponding Secretary to communicate with agents and other
persons in portions of the Southern States where the freed peo-
ple had collected, enquiring concerning their condition ; and, in
the Fourth month, our friends, H. W. Ridgway and Josiah
Wilson, were sent to visit accessible localities in- Gen. Butler’s
department. te

The information gained from these sources induced the conclu-
sion to concentrate our labors in the neighborhood of Washing-
ton. j
At the meeting of the Association in the Fifth month, a Re-
‘port of the transactions of the Executive Board up to that time

was read and directed to be published. The information was
therein contained that Sarah.Ann Cadwallader had been sta-
tioned as a teacher at a camp ten-miles from Alexandria, Va.
Good results are apparent from her labors, and the school is still
sustained, although she has been removed to another locality.

In the Sixth month, Harriet E. Stockly presented a report
of a visit of examination to the camps near Washington, and her
description of Camps Wadsworth and Rucker, as here given,
induced the appointment wt lydia T. Atkinson as teacher at
Camp Wadsworth.

“Camp Wapsworta.—Superintendent, Philip Fowler; Farmer, Eph-
raim Plowman. One hundred and seventy Freedmen. Five hundred
acres under cultivation, worked by about sixty persons.

‘On this farm some children of only eleven years of age are put 3s

daily. labor in direct violation of Government regulations, which require
that they be sent to school till they are fourteen. The people work ten
hours a day. ‘The farm looks well, and it is supposed thirty bushels of
wheat and fifty bushels of rye will be raised to the acre. The Freedmen
occupy two houses three-quarters of a mile apart. ‘There are only three
a)

or four cabins and six acres appropriated to them; but the farmer pro- —
mises to make a different arrangement.

~ “Camp Rucker. — Superintendent, Philip Fowler; Farmer, Oliver

Beesley; Teacher, Sarah Ann Cadwallader. Eighty-six men, women

and children,—twenty men, thirty-two women, and thirty-four children.

There are at this time, on this farm, ninety acres in winter grain, eighty-

five in corn, fifty in grass, seven in garden, two and a half in black-eyed

peas, twenty-five of white beans, two and a half of corn for horses, and

one acre in potatoes.

“ Since last fall, all the cabins, fifteen i in number, have been built : with
four exceptions, they are 16 feet-by 14 feet, and ample in height. There
are upon an average about six persons to each house. Should the
Freedmen remain here, there will be more cabins erected. Govern-
ment has disposed of this farm, and the people will have to be removed;
but this probably may not occur for two or three years. The condition
of the Freedmen here is very satisfactory. Their cabins are whitewashed
outside and in, and all neatly kept. The people are clean, tidy and
highly appreciative of the improvement in their condition. Many of
them escaped from severe masters, and they manifest a degree of grati-
tude to those who have aided them which Ihave never seen excelled.
They are exceedingly attached to their teacher, and fear lest she should
leave them. She has labored indefatigably, and ina measure successfully,
for their elevation, and it is their testimony that their condition has been
greatly improved since she came among them. There is a smaller num-
ber at this camp than at any other, which gives them a decided advan-
tage. The standard of morality is high, and they are well cared for.

“There seems a prevalent wantin all the camps of a spot of ground to

belong to each family where they can raise vegetables for themselves, and
— also to give their homes a more attractive appearance.”

Early in the Seventh month, letters having been received by
Louisa J. Roberts, depicting great suffering and destitution on
Mason’s Island, she believed that a personal inspection of the
place without’ delay was incumbent upon her. On arriving there,
she thus reported its condition :

“Camp Topp, Seventh month 7th, 1864.

“Dear S.,—I am at work in earnest. I have the entire co- -operation
of all the officials hereabout, and think I am in the right place at the
right time. I wish I could give thee a word- -picture of all Sally and I
have seen and done these last two days.

‘We went over to Mason’s Island with both our boxes yesterday, and
as the doctor went his rounds, we followed him with our dainties for the
‘sick. The sights that met our eyes were revolting. The quarters have
been barracks for soldiers, aud are well ventilated and comfortable, so
6

far as the buildings can make them; but when that is said all is said.
“ The poor inmates are destitute of every.comfort, ragged, filthy, and
lying on the floor; few of them having even straw. Nearly the half are
sick, and we might say were actually dying for something they could eat.
Raw meat, tainted by the extreme warm weather, was lying in sight of
poor creatures who were in the agonies of death, and raw beans and galt
pork and beef, that had been issued to those who were too sick to pre-
pare them for food, or to eat it if prepared by others, were scattered
everywhere. Piles of rags and dirty clothes lay in every corner, and at
every place where the poor sufferers found rest for their aching bones.
We kept a kind-hearted black soldier, who was in disgrace, cutting our
dried beef all the afternoon; he became very expert, and shaved it
nicely enough for our own table. , My thirteen pounds of crackers and
delicate biscuit were exhausted by the time I had gone through all the
houses, which are, I think, twelve in number. They are long and nar-
row, like all other barracks. I also distributed my five pounds of choco-
late. We came home at a late hour, with our minds busy trying to decide
what we had best attempt to do further for them.

“Superintendent Nichols is in command. I had a pass from Colonel
Green, allowing me to go where I please for ten days, from the 5th ©
instant. S. and I compared views, and made up our minds how to pro-
ceed. So this morning we went, as early as we could get off, to Captain
Brown, who is incommand at the Freedmen’s Village. He was not in,
but we found his next in office, and were glad to discover him to be all
we could desire. He said we might go over there, and do whatever we
thought was best. With lightened hearts we left him, promising to call
on our return, and see Captain Brown.

**Soon as we reached the Island, I went to the person in command,
and told him we would like to have a place to prepare food for the sick,
and that we had the day before found two women who we believed worthy
of trust, and would do whatever cooking was necessary.

“He gave us one of the kitchens, put our two cooks on the pay roll at
$6 dollars per month, had a load of wood hauled, and gave us the control
of as many men as we wanted. I undertook the supervision of this de-
partment, while Sally followed the doctor and his -assistant through the
wards, with crackers and beef. The floors were scrubbed, and our cooks
soon had apples stewed and gruel made, and many a poor famishing crea-
ture was comforted.

“T then went into two of the barracks, and ordered all the children
who could walk to be taken down to the river and thoroughly washed.
Those who were too sick, I had bathed in tepid water, of which there
was plenty on our great round stove.* Then to each clean child we dis-
tributed clothing. We set our scrubbers to cleaning the houses; had
lime scattered all around outside; and, feeling we had done all we then
could do, we had our buggy brought, and started home to Camp Todd,
7

stopping to see Captain Brown, who heartily endorses all we have
done, and promised us all that it was in his power to give.
‘“‘T stopped writing to attend a prayer meeting, held at the house of
one of the men here, under an arbor made of the boughs of the neigh-
boring trees. They had a good time, and I felt glad to be present with
them. I could write, if I had time, much that would amuse and interest
you all. We have been so busy that we have not read a paper since I
came here. We heard to-day that you are having stirring times.
“TI do not see how to leave until I have given these poor creatures a
start. There never was a clearer duty before me than the one that now
claims my attention. I am perfectly well—find Mason’s Island a delight-
ful place—it is only unhealthy when vegetation begins to decline. It con-
tains the former residence of Mason, of ‘‘ Trent” notoriety. WhenI can
get the cooks fully under way, give a clean whole garment to every needy,
ragged, filthy body, and set those who can spell to teach those who can-
not, I shall feel that I have performed the labor given me todo. Sally
and the doctor can then supervise, and I am sure the “ Executive Board”

will have done a work they need not be ashamed of; but to do this, it is
“ imperative that I remain at least till the middle of next week, and also
important that I have the material to work with. Without delay, thou
wilt see the Treasurer, and as many of the ‘‘ Board” as thou canst.
Say to M. A. G. that I would like to have two large boxes of children’s
clothing,—boys’ pants and shirts, baby slips and frocks, suited to ages
from three years up to ten and twelve,—not many women’s garments or
dresses, but for gzrls all that she can gather.

“For the sick I must have corn-starch, crackers, dried beef, &c. If
the ‘‘Board” can send me money, I can purchase these as cheaply in
Georgetown as they can be procured in Philadelphia, and save the expense
and trouble of transportation. We have a boat at our service, and men
to row across the river to Gegreatayn, It is making an unusual request,
but as a member of the “Board,” and seeing the need, and knowing these
things will be the life and comfort of hundreds who will continue to suf-
fer without them, I urge upon all of you to grant it. I know those in
whose care all will be intrusted are worthy your confidence. °

“The exigencies of: the military service engross everything now, and I
fear it will be almost impossible to get the boxes of clothing. If the
money is sent for buying nourishment, I can continue my supplies to the
sick, even though they should suffer for the want of clothes.

«To supply the want of crackers to-day, Sally took half of our white
sugar over to Georgetown, and exchanged it for them. We have enough
for to-morrow ; after that, will have to depend upon the Friends’ aid, &e.
The corn-meal served out is of the, most inferior quality. The rest of the
provisions generally good, except the fresh beef, which I insist shall not
be served to them while the weather is warm, in which Captain B. fally
concurs.”
8

The Executive Board appropriated $250 for immediate -
- distribution in this locality, and its Educational Committee re-
moved 8. A. Cadwallader from Camp Rucker to Mason’s Island.
In the latter part of the Seventh month, Louisa J. Roberts
and. George. W. Robins were appointed by the Executive Board to
yisit Mason’s Island and other localities in the vicinity of Wash-
ington, and, upon their return in the Eighth month, a written
report was submitted, from which the following is extracted :

“J found the island more crowded than when I left, a week before.
The measles had broken out among both children and mothers. The
promiscuous herding together of men and women in the barracks had
been forbidden. ‘The doctor had been appointed surgeon of the island,
and the opening of a hospital sanctioned.

« All these things were most encouraging, and though so many were
suffering with measles, other diseases were on the decrease. I do not
think it is too much to say, that the presence of those on the island who.
manifested a desire to benefit the suffering people there, has, in no small
degree, assisted in bringing about this change for the better.

“Going through the barracks the day after my arrival, and inquiring
about the necessities of the people, I found that many would gladly sub-
stitute loaf-bread for the cakes lightened with soda which they were
using. I went over to Georgetown and bought of a baker a quantity of
yeast, which I distributed among them. This led to the inquiry of how
they were to bake it. One old woman said, ‘She had no spider; that
there was nothing of the sort in all the barracks where she stayed.” ‘ Why
aunty, how does thee bake thy bread? I inquired. ‘I rolls it up in de
ashes,’ was the reply; and it was true, In all that barrack, where more
than one hundred: found shelter, there was not a single convenience
for baking their flour into bread. The same I found to be true of the
adjoining one. In each of the others, one or two individuals had spiders
and Dutch ovens, which were kept constantly in use by the owners and
others,—many waiting till far in the night to obtain the use of them. I
thought I could not do a better charity than to purchase several ovens,
to be kept by responsible women for the use of the barracks. I procured
nine, at seven cents per pound, making a total cost of $12 22. Colonel
Green being on the island when they were brought over, I called his at-
~ tention to the extreme destitution of the people, especially in their means
of cooking. He apologized for it by saying that it could not be helped,
that Government will do for them all that is required, but that it takes time.

«These poor colored dependents must wait until the soldiers are served.
“They are dying for the bare necessaries of life, not that there is insuffi-
cient food provided, for there is an abundance even to wastefulness, but
the want of means of cooking it properly causes much suffering,
9

“In establishing the hospital, Government has provided for all except
the mothers with newly-born infants. The surgeon asked the aid of your
Board in furnishing an apartment for such; without further consulting
you, I promised aid, as the outlay will be comparatively trifling. Hight
bedsteads are all that he asks for; these to be about three-quarters size.
The ticks filled with straw are expected to be drawn with the other
stores. The bedsteads are so much less in price here than at Washing-
ton, that I have promised to send from here.

“One thousand garments have been distributed, sent from this and the
Women’s Association, and yet one scarcely sees the good they have done,
the population on the island is so fluctuating. Every effort is made to
get homes for all able to work.

“ Hard as is the condition of the people on Mason’s Island, the reports
that come from Memphis represent the Freedmen there in so much
greater distress, that these seem comfortable in comparison. A lady
who arrived last week from Memphis, informed me that there is a field
appropriated to them, and as they arrive in the city they are taken out to
this field and there herded together without shelter or any comforts, just as
a drove of cattle would be disposed.of. The mortality among them is
startling. It is to be hoped that an inquiry may be made, and if things
are as bad as represented, some steps may be taken to better the con-
dition of those people.” .

The establishment of a temporary Home in this city haviag
been recommended forthe accommodation of the Freed people
seeking employment, the subject was referred to a committee,
. which, after investigation, proposed that a building be rented ;
but the co-operation of Government in furnishing free transporta-
tion having been declined, and other difficulties arising, after
further consideration it was concluded to defer definite action.

In the Ninth month, the subject was again introduced to the.
notice of the Board by a communication from the “ Pennsylvania.
Society for promoting the Abolition of Slavery,” &c., suggesting
joint action with that Society and the three Weeadien’ s Asso-
ciations of this city. A committee of conference was appointed,
which recommended that the matter should be referred to the
care of the Abolition Society, with an appropriation, if required,
of $100 from our funds. ‘This was approved by the Board.

In the Eighth month, Margaret Preston was employed to act
as teacher or nurse, as circumstances might require, at Mason’s
Island; and about the same time, Mary McLain was engaged

as teacher at Camp Wadsworth. .
10

“The people on the two farms composing this camp evince a
desire to support themselves, and they have paid for a considerable
portion of the clothing distributed among them.

In the Ninth month the Committee on Supplies was released
and Louisa J. Roberts, Macpherson Saunders, George W. Robins,
Martha Dodgson, Spencer Roberts, Nathan W. Ellis, Joseph M.

Truman, Jr., and Franklin 8. Wilson, were constituted a Sanitary
Committee, the Board appropriating for their use $500 to be ex-
pended in hospital stores mainly for Mason’s Island.

By the publication of the following appeal, prepared by them,
valuable contributions were received and forwarded :

“ Friends’ Association, of Philadelphia, for the Aid and Sleration of the
Freedmen,’’ have co-operated with Government in the establishment of
hospitals on Mason’s Island, where much sickness and great destitution
now exist. The undersigned, a sanitary committee of said Association,
solicit from Friends and others, contributions of hospital stores, which
will be judiciously distributed by nurses and teachers sent out by the
Association to Mason’s Island, Camp Wadsworth, and other points in
the vicinity of Washington.

“The articles most needed, are dried fruits, such as apples, peaches,
cherries, plums and blackberries; also blackberry and other syrups, and
all other articles suitable for the sick and convalescent.

“ Contributions of bed-covering, and clothing for women and children,
will be very acceptable, as they are greatly needed. Free transportation
has been granted by Government from Philadelphia:

“ All contributions should be sent to J. & M. a 34 North
Fourth Street, Philadelphia.

Phila., Ninth month Lith.

On behalf of this Committee, Louisa J. Roberts, accompanied ©
by Margaret A. Griscom, again visited Mason’s Island, and thus
reported upon their return :

‘After the business of the Sanitary Committee was ee at their
meeting, held Ninth month 23d, I proposed to go again to Washington
for the purpose of laying before the newly-appointed Quarter Master, the
wants of our teachers and the people among whom they labor, and to
luok after our boxes sent since his sper rerepat to office in that com
ment.

‘My proposition was accepted, and I lost no time in starting, as our .
interests demanded early attention.

“ We had several satisfactory interviews with Col. Elison. Our teach-
ers appear to have his entire confidence, and he seems willing to do all
that lies in his power, to promote their comfort and er
11

“The condition of the people on Mason’s Island is much improved ;
the great mortality that prevailed during the latter part of the summer,
has given place to 4 more healthy condition, attribatable to the success
that has attended our efforts to provide hospital accommodations, and to
the approach of colder weather.

‘‘ Many cases of sad bereavement claimed our tenderest sympathy,—
wives, husbands, children, with tearful eyes, answered my inquiries after
their companions, with these words, ‘ Dey is gone to de graveyard.’ One
young woman whom [I had noticed particularly for her cheerful. pleasant
smile, and whose devotion to her three little children, had won for her
my warmest admiration, came to me with such a sad face, that I inquired
what had happened since I saw her last. ‘You knows my children,—
dey is all gone; Ise not got one lef;’ was her sorrowful reply. It required
_ no apostolic injunction to call forth the tear of sympathy that welled up
as-I listened to her recital, and commended her to that source of comfort
which had never failed me in the direst extremity. This was not an igo-
lated case; I met with several mothers who had sustained similar losses.
Quite a number of children are stillin the hospitals, tenderly cared for
by our faithful and earnest matron, M: P., whose indefatigable labors are
acknowledged by all who have intercourse with her. We have the satis-
faction of knowing that these hospitals, though but just established, and
wanting yet many essential comforts, are beginning to receive patients
sent by the department from Washington and Georgetown.

‘‘ A fund has been created from the sale of surplus rations, which will
be used to supply vegetables, the want of which is sadly felt ; many have
died of scorbutic affections, after their disease had yielded to medical
treatment, for the want of proper vegetable diet.

“The farmer of Camp Rucker deserves thanks for the many generous
contributions of fruits, &c., he has sent them. If more of the men to
whom the interests of thant freed people are entrusted, were like him,
their condition would be vastly improved. We were unable, from the
shortness of our stay, to visit his camp, but were assured that it con-

tinues prosperous, and the people contented and happy.

“There is still a great want of drinking water on the island; no efficient
measures have been taken to provide a sufficient snpply; we made a
special request that this be attended to without further delay; the whole
population, teachers and all, have suffered in this matter. From. the
only well where water in any amount can be obtained, those who seek to

avail themselves of its use must be provided with a rope and bucket,
requisites not in the possession of all; they who have them not must
throw themselves on the kindness of the more fortunate; wrangling and
contention frequently occur, and the timid are often forced to resort to

‘the. marshy springs along the margin of the river; all agree that very
much of the sickness and death that have made such fearful havoc among
the people, were caused by the impure water they were obliged to drink.
12

‘We does suffer for water,’ said the old doctress, who is installed as
chief assistant in the women’s ward. ‘Where are your buckets?’ f
asked ; ‘Dey dun give us none,’ was her reply. Remembering thata dear
friend, from whose lips many of us have drank in words of truth that spring
from the eternal Fountain, had given me a sum of money to purchase ?
waterpails, I promised immediate attention, and am glad to record that
there will henceforth be no lack of buckets to hold the water.

“On returning home, we brought with us fifteen men, women and: chil-
dren, for all of whom good homes have been obtained; they came a oe
the expense of those employing them. Li Be
Tenth month 13th, 1864.

Early in the Eleventh month, Helen G. Longstreth, accom-
_ panied by our friend, James Mott, visited Mason’s Island and
Camp Wadsworth. Upon their return the following report was
presented to the Executive Board, and the suggestions therein
contained were approved :

“Tn company with our friend, James Mott, of the Executive Board,
T visited Mason's Island, (which is now a Government reception camp,) on
the 4th and on the 6th inst. We found that the condition of the people
had improved since the visits of Louisa J. Roberts and Margaret A.
Griscom; several of the abuses, which they had represented to Col.
Elison, having been wholly or partially relieved.

“ The new school room is large, well lighted and ready for the stoves
which are promised this week. The discontinuance of the school taught
by a daughter of the superintendent places all the children under our
care ; these at present number about one hundred who can be accom-
modated in this commodious room.

“The supply of water, although still insufficient, is somewhat greater
than it has been. Another well has been commenced; we complained
of its unfinished state to the superintendent, who promised it should be
finished at once. In our interview with Captain Brown of the Contra-
‘band Department, at his office in Washington, this promise was repeated.

“Government now furnishes some clothing to the most suffering cases
on the island.”

“The sanitary arrangements are atk cleanliness is apparent through-
‘out, and it is evident’ that the sanitary officer does his duty. He has the
floors of the barracks cleaned every day, and’ there was neither rubbish
nor offal-'to be seen on the premises.

“At present there are but four inmates of the hospitals.

“Not more than four hundred persons are now here; these are mostly
women and children. We visited every barrack, and had an opportunity

for conversing freely with the occupants of each. The! countenances of
*« few beamed with pleasure, as they showed us useful’articles which they
13 —

had purchased, with the proceeds of their paid labor. Some were pre-
paring their dinners, but the greater number were sitting listlessly around
the stoves, evidently suffering for want of something to occupy their
thoughts and attention. Upon our asking them whether they would like
to do some kind of work, their faces brightened, and their answers con-
veyed the idea that anything would be better than idleness, even if they
received “no pay,” but they preferred “pay.” The suggestions we thus
gathered from observation and from conversation with them induced us
to believe that an industrial school, in which they could be employed in
making up new, and mending their partly worn, clothing, also receive
instruction in cutting out, making and mending such, would tend to fit
them for future usefulness, whilst the idea of labor went be aesociatag
with their earliest experience of a life of freedom.

“When we introduced this subject to Captain Brown, we found him
ready to co-operate with us in establishing a school of this kind; we of-
fered to supply one or more teachers, whilst he agreed to eemde. us with
a suitable room, and to furnish us with cut out clothing, together with the
trimmings and implements necessary for making it up. We look forward
to include in this branch of duties, cobbling, for the men.

“ Captain Brown also told us that Government was unwilling to make
costly outlays, as the permanency of the camp in this place is doubtful,
on account of the unhealthiness of the island during several months of
the year. |

“Both here and at Camp Wadsworth we had opportunities for con-
versing with separately or addressing publicly nearly every individual in
the respective camps. In this way we became better acquainted with
their true condition than through any hearsay evidence which we have
heretofore been able to obtain; and whilst their trying situation during
this period of transition from slavery to freedom, called forth our deepest
sympathies, we could but feel thankful for their present state of compara-
tive comfort.

“We visited Camp Wadsworth on the 5th instant. Before leaving
home we had learned that there were but few children at either the up-
per or lower camp. ‘The-present policy of the Government is to find
homes for all children of suitable age to bind out. Many parents not
wishing to be parted from their children have left these camps, prefer-
ring the uncertainties of seeking their own livelihood without the aid of
Government to the probability of what may prove a permanent separation ~
from them, This movement has nearly broken up Lydia T. Atkinson’s .
school, and we suggest the transfer of her remaining pupils to the lower
camp, which is under the care of Mary McLain, and her removal to Ma-
son’s Island where our school has been so greatly increased.

‘¢ We regret this change, as the children under her care had advanced
rapidly in their studies, and the adults had greatly improved in house-

keeping.

‘
14
i

“ At the lower camp we found that our teacher had been equally faith-
ful in the performance of her duties, but we were much disappointed to
see that the superintendent had built her a very small cabin, which, judg-
ing from its loose construction, will barely protect her from the winter
weather. We called at his house in orden to direct his attention to this;
he was not at home. We had, however, an irterview with his wife, and
from our conversation with her we were led to the conclusion, that if we
wish to do our work well, we must use our influence to induce conscien-

tious farmers and their wives to seek such situations as this man holds,

for unless those who have the care of these Government farms go hand
in hand with us, and with our teachers, we shall be able to do our duty
but partially, and throw discouragements in the path of those who look
to us as their true friends,

“The greater part of the Freed- people, i in these two camps, are earn-
ing money by cultivating the farms. They are inclined to spend it judi-
ciously. We, therefore, suggest, that our teachers here be furnished with
a stock of trimmings and a few other articles in order to form a nucleus
for a small store in case it should prove desirable to establish one here.
Now, they are obliged to send nine miles to Georgetown for needles,
tapes, and similar articles. We should not consider our report com-
plete without adverting to the obligations which we feel we are under to
our noble-hearted teachers, who are doing by far the heaviest part of the
work for us, considering our interests and the interests of the Freedman
“a8 paramount, and neglecting their own so far as to be sufferers cchoue
sickness and discomforts of many kinds.

‘“‘In our comfortable homes, let us remember them, and seriously ask
‘of ourselves whether we are doing all thai we might do to evince our
sympathy for them.

“In conclusion we would add that we thitik it advisable for our com-
_mittees, when they visit the camps under our especial care, to visit
also the camps in Washington, and acquaint themselves with the condi-
tion of the freed-people in that city, who are endeavoring to support
themselves without the aid of the Government. We regretted that the
inclemency of the weather prevented our doing this.

“It is well we believe for our Association to labor in the Government
camps at this time. We must not, howéver, forget that it is equally
our duty to obtain all the information we can, upon the various modes for
elevating the Freedman, in order that we may be prepared to work in
other directions, so soon as it is thought best for us to do so.”

A letter from one of our teachers at Mason’s Island gives
the following interesting information.
Eleventh month 23d, 1864.
‘Our day and night schools are progressing nicely and to our satisfac-
tion, having over- sixty children in attendance. Several women come
15

through the dey, and during the two hours we teach in the evening both
men and women come. They are industrious and quite as apt as we
have reason to.expect. We teach from 10 in the morning until 2 in the
afternoon, with a short recess. Then we have classes of women in the
barracks, who cannot leave to go to the school room. This does not } oocupy
us more than two hours.

‘“‘ We hold our night school from 5} until 73—forty usually in “attohill
ance. On Third and Fifth-day we have a sewing class for the
little girls. Fourth and Seventh-day evenings being their seasons for
religious meeting, we omit the school, and occupy the time in writing let-
ters for the people.

‘The four welcome boxes ve arrived. The articles in the last one
are very valuable, especially the books, slates, counting balls and letter
blocks, and we thank you, in the name of the people, for your kindness.

« When Superintendent Nichols can get material, the boys will be en-
gaged in work, ‘Uncle Cain’ is very willing to teach mat making,”

‘It has been the constant aim of the Board to employ those
teachers only who enter the work from conscientious motives,
and with a sincere desire to benefit those among whom they labor.
From a letter, written to a member of the Education Committee,
by one of our teachers before entering nH her duties, we ex-
tract the following :

‘Very earnestly I have sought to be guided aright i in ‘his
matter, to avoid hasty conclusions or mistaken ideas: of philan-
thropy. If my time has not yet come to enter this broad field
of labor, if other and more efficient workers are at hand to break
the path for feebler ones to follow, then I will cheerfully with- |
draw, content to possess my soul in patience. I know the respon-
sibility will be heavy; it will all be very different from anything
my life has known; yet, with divine sanction and assistance, and
the belief that I was engaged in a sacred work, I humbly:trust
I should be enabled to discharge my duties faithfully, and be
sustained through all the trials I might have to undergo.” |

The spirit which this extract breathes commends itself to the
young of our religious society, many of whom have qualifications
for usefulness in leading the despised descendants of Africa from
the degradation, consequent on their late enslaved condition, to
a higher degree of civilization and independence.

Information having been received by the Board, at its meeting
on the 7th of Twelfth month, of the destitution of the Freed-
16

people, who had collected on certain farms occupied by Gov-
ernment, in Saint Mary’s County, Maryland, Helen G. Long-
streth, who had just undertaken a visit to Mason’s Island on
our behalf, was charged with the duty of inquiring into the ‘eli-
gibility of this field of labor ; accompanied by our friend, Dill-
wyn Parrish, she visited Mason’s Island, and finding much to
engage attention at that place, and the modes of conveyance to
the distant locality in Maryland being laborious and uncertain, it
was concluded to accept the proffered aid of an experienced
friend of the cause, Emily Howland, who, accompanied by Mar-
garet Preston, a teacher and nurse in our employ, started at once
by stage to Charlotte Hall, 40 miles from Washington and about ~
eight miles distant from the nearest of the Government farms ;
thence they proceeded, most of the ey) on foot, to the places de-
signated.

On the first farm they found about 800 people, mostly occu-
pying the former slave quarters, on what had been the estate of
the rebel Col. Southron; at the head of this community were
Lieutenant O’Brien and his wife. They seemed much interested
in the welfare of the people, who were wretchedly housed and
clad, and without schools or any suitable building for the purpose,
as Lieut. O’Brien has no authority to build one; he expressed,
however, a willingness to facilitate, in every way, the object of
our Association, and intending to put a saw-mill in operation
shortly, could supply lumber for its value ; colored carpenters could
be procured, needing only a obinpdtent mechanic to superintend
them.

At the middle farm, which has a smaller community, a young
man and his wife, named Wheeler, are stationed, who are much
interested in teaching, and feel deeply the wants of the people
which they are powerless to supply. The children are very des--
titute of gy many suits of rags and little bare feet are to
be seen. .

From a letter of Emily Howland we extract the following in
addition: ‘The lower farm, one mile below, is occupied by a Mr.
Avery, an excellent man for the place, from New Hampshire.
There is no school-house there, but an unfinished addition to the
house which; I thought, could readily be converted-into a place
s

17

for a school. Both the lower farms are delightful; I was so
warmly urged, by both colored and white, to remain, and the place
was SO alluring, I would have gladly staid if my word had not
been given to my flock at Camp Todd.”’

The lower farms constitute an immense plantation, some thou-
sands of acres, which, having been owned by the rebel General
Forrest, will probably be occupied by Government for a long
time. In view of the constant arrival of refugees, it seems that
a field would be opened for us, at these farms, full of need and
full of promise. In the mean time our friends in New York, hav- _
ing become interested in the same locality, have sent a Committee
. to visit it, and we await their report, intending to codperate with
them, if their examination seems to justify it, in the care of one
or all the farms. Margaret Preston remains at the upper farm —
as our agent, to be of service, especially in the care of the sick.
The Women’s Association have sent one box, and friends in New
York another, to relieve the immediate necessities of the people.

_ It has been the design of this Association, when a favorable
opportunity presented, to direct its labors to a single community
of the Freed-people, establish industrial and other schools, and,
if possible, secure them a title to the lands they cultivate, thus.
testing their capacity for self maintenance and improvement.
Whether the opening at St. Mary’s is favorable for this work
‘remains to be ascertained ; if it should prove to be so, the codpe-
ration of our friends in New York, and, perhaps, those in Balti-
more, would give strength and support to the undertaking.

Our labors at Mason’s Island, which have been blessed for the
benefit and improvement of the large and constantly shifting popu-
lation collected there, must also continue unabated; the suffering
condition of the people, arising from insufficient protection from
the weather, calls for active and unremitting labors in their .
behalf; the sick also require care, while by the schools,
maintained on the Island, many are grounded in the elements of
learning during their short sojourn there.

We are not insensible to the touching appeals from the more
distant localities in the South West, and in answer to requests
from William F. Mitchell, at Nashville, Tenn., we have sent some
supplies of clothing to.be distributed under his supervision.

2 .
- 8

In a letter dated Nashville, Tenn., Twelfth-month _ ie 1864,

he says ;
MT

“Never were supplies more needed than now. At least 3000 are
camped within half a mile of our lodge to-night, and many of them are
without bedding of any kind. I have seen to-day 1200 persons living in
five rooms, without a fire in any one of them.

Fires to cook with were built out of doors, and about them were told
groups of women and children, trying to get warm. They had travelled
seventy miles, within a week, to find this kind of refuge, escaping the
bullets of those on their track, to die with exposure here. Every article
that can be sent is needed.

Women stood three hours in the cold, yesterday, waiting their turn to
get warm clothing; the aged, infirm, crippled, mothers with children,
and one insane woman, who had lost her reason because one after another
had been sold from her.’

In contemplating the work before us we are deeply impressed
with its immensity, embracing not only the relief of the pressing
physical wants of vast numbers of our fellow beings, but also their
intellectual and moral culture, that they may be fitted for the new
responsibilities attendant upon their state of freedom; and we
believe that in future labors our best policy lies in Hitting our
sphere to the localities we have named, while any excess of sup-
plies, over those needed by the communities under our care, may
be distributed for the relief of suffering elsewhere.

We thankfully recognize the fact that there are not a few
of every class and sect in the Northern and Western States, who
are zealously laboring to pay the Nation’s debt to these
hitherto oppressed people. Some, to feed the hungry, clothe the
naked, and nourish and comfort those who are ready to perish ;
others to lift them out of the ignorance and thriftlessness
consequent on their long-continued servile condition, and to
illumine their path to’freedom and independence by the light of
civilization.

The duty of this Association, while it seems to include a
participation according to its limited means in every branch of
the work, points especially to the elevation, perhaps of a single
community only, to a position of independence and thrift, and to
the removal of the imputation which has so long operated at
19 : ee

them, of being necessarily dependent and thriftless, by opening
to them avenues to honorable and profitable employment, and —
uprooting the unrighteous prejudice which has so long crushed
their efforts for improvement.

By the teport of our Treasurer, we learn that of thé 1 nine
thousand six hundred and sixty-seven dollars collected during the
past year, seven thousand six hundred and twenty have been
already expended, leaying only about two thousand dollars on
hand to meet demands likely soon to arise. We would therefore
urgently appeal to every member of our Religious Society, and
to all others who are willing to aid in this work, to give freely of
their abundance.

The poorest among us has indeed abundanee, as compared with
these objects of our charity ; ; and to those who have not money
we would appeal for aid in that wherewith they are blessed. Any
of our friends, in the country especially, can part with articles of
the greatest value to these sufferers, without denying themselves
a single comfort. The appeal comes, however, with the greatest —
force to those who are living in the midst of plenty, who are
stewards of abundance of this world’s goods, and who, as such,
are responsible to a common Father for the use they make of his
blessings.

The Executive Board have been humbled in the retrospect of
the past year, in view of our deficiencies, and, while we strongly
commend this great work of Christian benevolence to those on
whose behalf we have endeavored to administer it, we fervently
desire that, for the future, we or our successors may prove more
industrious and worthy laborers in this extensive field, remember- —
ing the declaration of the Divine Master: “ He that reapeth
receiveth wages and gathereth fruit unto life eternal, that both
he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.”
20

Statement of M. Saunvers, Treasurer of Friends’ Association for the
Aid and Elevation of the Freedmen.

'd

“

“c ‘ ‘“

6é ce

_ CASH CONTRIBUTED.

By Friends and others of this city,
Trenton, N.

Middletown, Del.,

sé

Ke : vicinity of Middletown M'ly Ming. ha

Kennett
, London Grove ‘“

Camden, Del., “

West Chester Prep. M'g., i

Bart

Newtown ey

Evesham, N.J.,  “

Menden and Wheatland
Prep. Meeting, N. Y., .

Penns Grove Prep. M'ng.

Falls Monthly Meeting,

Piles Grove Pion. M’ng.,

Darby Monthly Meeting,

Fallowfield -

Farmington “ N, el

Alloways Creek M'ly Mng.

Centre, Del.,

Richland Prep. M'ng. af

Bristol

Marion

Buckingham ‘‘

Roaring Creek M’ly M’tg.

West Liberty, ve

By Yearly Meeting of Progressive Friends, ee
“ a Friend of Enterprise, Lancaster Oo., Pa.

% Friends and others in vicinity of Nottingham M’ly. M’ng.,. i)

OR A&S,

oun ta ae

“ St, Paul’s Charch, ‘Doylestown, Pa.,
« Friends of Christiana, Lancaster Co., Pa.,

me fay iat WE

“« Lydia T. Atkinson, for goods sold Freedmen,

To Women’s desaiiaile for ploehins:

PAYMENTS.

“ Committee on Education,

“* Sanitary Committee,
For shoes, printing, and necessary expenses, ‘ - 260 89

Balance on hand,

- $4800 00
: - 1142 84
. . 1416 80

$7620 53

- $2047 09
21
DISTRIBUTIONS DURING THE YEAR 1864.*

Box in First month to H. Simmons, Freedmen’s Village, containing
50 garments, furnished by Women’s Association, and 56 pairs of shoes,
from this Association.

Third month 2d, box to Joseph Dugdale, Prairie Grove, Iowa, 354 gar-
menis, valued at $380.

Fourth month 20th, two boxes to Lucy Chase, Norfolk, Va., containing
789 garments, valued at $792.

_ Fourth month 25th, to Camp Rucker, 7 Colton’s maps, 1 Smith’s large
U.S. Map, 2 school atlases, 1 writing chart, 2 doz. Wilson’s First Reader,
2 doz. Wilson’s Second Reader, 3 doz. Wilson’s Speller, 4 doz. Wilson’s
Charts, 1—8, 1 doz. Wilson’s Charts, 15—16, 1 pt. liquid slating, 4 doz.
slates, 200 pencils, 8 brushes, soap, candles, school bell, 1 doz. lamps,
12 doz. thimbles, 40 spools of cotton, 6 papers needles, 6 pieces tape,
4 boxes buttons, 1 package dried fruits; and 134 garments sent from
Women’s Association.

Fifth month 19th, box to Camp Rucker, containing 2 doz. rkavis
hdk’s., 3 pieces of muslin, 3 pieces gingham, 1 piece of print, 2 pieces
dittting: 1 gross buttons, 8 prs. small scissors, 2 prs. large scissors, 1 pr.
. shears, 1 lb. drab thread, and a donation from Franklin Wilson of 2 gross
pant. buttons, 1 boy’s shirt, 5 prs. ghockings, man’s coat, boy’s jacket and
pants, and a quilt.

Fifth month 28th, to Camp Wadsworth, box containing dry goods
valued $90-99. 12 infant slips, 12 girls’ dresses, 2 prs. pants, 63 under
garments, 1 gross thimbles, 2 gross buttons, 3 doz, spools cotton, 250
needles, one dollar’s worth of garden seeds, 1 school bell, 5 brushes,
stationery, valued at $30.68.

Seventh month 20th, sent to Mason’s Island box containing sig gar-

ments, valued at $484.00.

Ninth month 13th, box to Mason’s Island, inibinteting 197 garments,
valued at $250.

Eleventh month 11th, sent to Mason’s Island stationery valued at $38.14.

Boxes sent BY Sanitary Committee To Mason’s ISLAND AND ELSEWHERE.

Ninth month 13th, Box No. 1, of Sanitary Committee, sent to Margaret
C. Preston, Mason’s Island, containing sewing cotton and buttons,
$5.15, blackberry syrup and Jamaica ginger, $6.70, dried fruit (apples
and plums), $5.95, dried beef, $7.28: total value, $25.08. 2 tin water
pails for Hospital on Mason’s Island, purchased with cash donation, $2.00.

Tenth month 13th, sent Box No. 2 to M. C. Preston, Mason’s Island.
Contents—l1 lb. sewing thread, $2.00, 10 window shades for the General
Hospit.l, ($1.50 each,) $15.00, 10 lbs. arrow-root (donated), $8.00,
1} bush. dried fruit, three packages part worn carpet, 14 jars canned
fruits, 8 cans do., 1 bottle wine, 4 comfortables and quilts, 9 prs. stock-
ings, (part worn), 2 delaine dresses, (part worn).

* Exclusive of clothing distributed by the Women’s Association.
22

Box No. 3, sent Tenth month 28th to Margaret C. Preston, Mason’s
fae 1 wrapper, 2 prs. children’s hose (new), and a package part worn
men’s clothing.

Box 4, donated by Christiana Aid Society, Tenth month 28th. Sent to
M. OC. Preston, Mason’s Island. Contents —28} yds. flannel, 3 lbs. stock-
ing yarn, 20 yds. towel linen, 2 shawls, 1 sack, 4 remnants dress goods,
13 prs. hose, 2 quilted skirts, thread, buttons, and knitting needles.

Box 5, from Millville, Pa. Sent Tenth month 28th to M, C. Preston,
Mason’s Island. Contents—9j lbs. stocking yarn, 13 prs. stockings, a
quantity of dried fruit, and assorted clothing, amount not specified.

Box 6, from Abington. Sent to M. C. Preston, Mason’s Island, Tenth
month 28th. Contents—12 quilts, 2 flannel skirts, 20 women’s dresses,
1 boy’s suit, 9 children’s suits, 1 bed quilt, 7 sacks, 13 shirts, 1 skirt, and
1 part worn dress.

Box 7, sent Tenth month 28th to M. C. Preston, Mason’s Island. Con-
tents—Hospital stores, yiz: canned fruits, 3 jars pickles, 2 bags dried
corn, 1 bag Lima beans, 1 bag currants, and a quantity of dried apples.

Barrel of apples sent to S. Cadwalader at same time, donated by Bucks
County Friends.

Box No. 8, sent to Mason’s Island Eleventh oth 25th, from Upper
Dublin Sewing Circle. Contents—22 dresses, 9 boys’ suits, 1 comfortable,
and assorted clothing, part worn. Total, 251 garments. .

Box 9, sent Eleyenth month 25th to Mason’s Island; from Upper
Dublin. Contents—103 Ibs. dried beef, 9 Ibs. crackers, 3} lbs. dried rusk
1 bush. beets and onions, 7 jars pickles, 1 jar peaches, 1 jar catsup.

Box 10, sent Eleventh month 25th to Mason’s Island; from Bucks
County, without a list of contents. Contained clothing, to which was added
2 jars pickles and some part worn carpet.

Box 11, sent Twelfth month 9th to Wm. F. Mitchell, Nashville, Tenn.,

contained 367 garments, valued at $520. Obtained from Women’s Asso-
ciation,

Box 12, sent Twelfth month 16th, to Mason’s Island, containing dried
fruit, dried rusk, gingerbread, a quantity of part worn clothing, (all from
Greenwich, N. J.,) also one large blanket shawl; and 34 Ibs. stocking
yarn, and 10 sets knitting needles, purchased with the remainder of a cash
donation to Sanitary Committee.

Box 13, sent Twelfth month 19th to Mason’s Island; from Christi-
ana, Pa. Contents—10 prs. shoes, 14 coats, vests, and pants, 3 wrappers,
3 women’s dresses, 6 children’s dresses, 20 prs. stockings, 3 quilted skirts,
-3 small shirts, 6 children’s aprons, 6 children’s pants, 1 bed quilt, —hats
and caps, books, spoons, boys’ clothing, 2 strips carpet, 5 packages fruit.

To these were added 1 ham and a package of dried rusk.

Box 14, sent to Mason’s Island Twelfth month 23d, came from Sylvester
D. Linnville; contained dried fruit and clothing. - : Number of garments
not specified. i -

 
23

- Box 15, package of bed-covers and part worn clothing, received from Mul
lica Hill, N. J., for Mason’s Island ; valued by donors at $53.00; sent to
Mason’s Jeaed Twelfth month 23d, 1 bbl. dried apples, 3 bbl. apple
butter, } bbl. pickles.

Box 16, sent to Mason’s Island Twelfth month 23d, oan 340 new
garments, valued at $540.

Boxes 17 and 18, sent from Bucks County without a list of voltentlk were
forwarded, as requested by the donors, to Mason’s Island.

Box 19, sent First month 4th, 1865, to Wm. F. Mitchell, Nashville,
Tenn., for ths orphan children between the ages of six and twelve yéars,
who are in the schools under his charge. The goods purchased by the
Sanitary Committee, mostly made by the Bethany (colored) Mission
School: 55 woolen dresses, 16 kersey jackets, 20 prs. kersey pants,—all
assorted sizes,—6 cloth jackets, donated by F. Wilson, 25 part-worn | gar-
ments, and a small package of books.

Box 20, sent First month 4th, 1865, to Mason’s Island. Contents—
2 pieces of bed tick, 5 lbs. woolen knitting yarn, 1 Ib. patent thread, 4 doz.
prs. children’s shoes, 6 prs. part-worn shoes, lot of shoemakers’ tools and
lasts. Besides these, there was sent at the same time one lot of sole leather,
donated some time since by. Samuel J. Levick, valued at $70.

Expenses incurred in establishing a Lying-4n Hospital at Mason’s Island,
Seventh month 20th, 1864.

Cash entrusted to me for the benefit of the Freedmen at

 

Mason’s Island, i i : ‘ ; $250 00
From S. Hunt, : ‘ Bs ‘ 1-00
. | $251 00
Seventh month 12th, Hospital stores, : . $5 75
“ 14th, Crackers. : : ahah i S,
oe ' Fresh meat, : a oe
“ 18th, Personal expenses, 4 SOC G
Cash left for the Hospital, . 30 00
te 23d, Expended in bread and meat, . 15 25
+t Nine bake ovens, ; Ee oo
Hospital stores, : Oe Oe,
«“ 25th, Crackers and groceries,» . 400
Stamps and paper, « ka
“ 26th, Cash left with S. Cadwalader for
Hospital use, : 7 50

Passage money for self, and refresh.
ments for 30 women and children, 6 00
Highth month 9th, 8 pr. Bedsteads, at $4.00 per pr., 32 00
4 Tables, at $2.00, 4 oe Oe
6 Chairs, at $3-00, . 1800
24

Eighth month 9th, 4 bbl. Crackers, ; . »o 64
2 prs. window shades, a Oe

“, 11th, Furniture check for spread, . 28°13

“ 24th, Muslin for Hospital use, 36 64

Cash to 8. Cadwalader, for sick, 10 00

    

 

ee 27th, Muslin for Hospital use, a oe
Syrup and Jamaica Ginge 3 20
“$261 68

Most of these articles were used before Government furnished supplies
usually granted to newly established hospitals.
L. J. R.

In response to the appeal in Ninth month, the following donations
were received by the Sanitary Committee, -

Ninth month. 10 lbs. arrow-root, valued at $8.00 ; } bush. dried apples,
from Sarah Roberts ; 1 counterpane and clothing, A. K. Parry; 14 jars
preserved fruits, A. T. Lang; peaches, dried cherries, wine, and dried’
apples, P. T. Speakman; dried peaches and carpeting, L. Seal; 2 bed
quilts, K. Hayhurst.

Tenth month. 1 box assorted goods, mostly in piece, from Christians
Aid Association : value, $50.00. ‘1 bbl. apples, from Bucks County, Pa.
1 box from Abington Freedman’s Association. 1 box from Millville, Co-
jumbia County, Pa. 1 box from Friends of Bucks Co,, Pa.

From Friends in Germantown, the following, viz: 4 qts. dried corn, —
4 qts. Lima beans, bag of dried currants, 8 cans preserved fruits, 3 jars
pickles, 2 large packages part-worn carpet, 2 large packages part-worn
clothing.

From Friends of Wilmington, one package of part-worn men’s clothing,
and one large package of part-worn carpeting.

1 bush. dried apples, } bush. peaches, from Preston Eyre.

Eleventh month. 2 jars pickles, and a large package of part worn car-
pet, from Germantown. 2 boxes from Upper Dublin Association,—1 of
clothing and 1 of Hospital stores,

Twelfth month. 1 box clothing and Hospital stores, from M. R. and
H. B. Dare, Greenwich, N. J. 1 long cloth shawl, from E. Clendenten.
Dried apples, from Thos. J. Burden. 1 box clothing, from Christiana, Pa.
Ham and dried rusk, from S. F. Burton, Morrisville, Pa. 1 bbl. dried apples,
and 3 bbl. pickles, Upper Greenwich, N. J. 3 bbl. apple butter, and a
box containing fruit and clothing, from Sylvester D. Linnville. 1 large
package bed covers and part worn clothing, valued by donors at $53.00,
from Mullica Hill, N. J. 1 package, containing 6 new cloth coats for
boys, from Franklin Wilson. 2 boxes from Friends of Bucks County.
Feather pillow, carpeting, and sundry articles of women’s clothing,
children’s hose, &c., from various other persons in Philadelphia and
elsewhere, and a cash donation of $10.00.

“ mat a

a

  
a at

 

 

SECOND ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

FRIENDS’? ASSOCIATION

OF

PHILADELPHIA

FOR THE

AID AND ELEVATION OF THE FREEDMEN,

WITH A LIST OF

OFFICERS FOR THE YEAR 1866.

PHILADELPHIA;
MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS,
No. 243 Arch Street. ~
1866.

 

 

wevvvvvYy

 

— —~w- wwwwwwwwwwwewwwe ww , . = = ¥
SECOND ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION |

OF

PHILADELPHIA

FOR THE

AWD AND ELEVATION OF THE FREEDMEN.

WITH A LIST OF

 

OFFICERS FOR THE YEAR 1866.

PHILADELPHIA:
MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS,
No. 243 Arch Street,

1866. ’
OFFICERS.

SECRETARIES,

WM. C. BIDDLE,
509 Commerce Street, Phila.

MARGARET A. GRISCOM,
| Bristol, Pa.

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY,

ANNE BIDDLH, ©
509 Commerce Street.

TREASURER,

HENRY M. LAING,
30 N. Third Street.

aS

STANDING COMMITTEES.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE,

Louisa J. Roperts, — Marrua Dopeson,
AuFreD H. Love, Harriet BE. Stockty,
Lyp1a GILLINGHAM, Jos. M. Truman, Jr.,
Jacos M. E ts,  Maraarer A. Griscom.

PURCHASING COMMITTEE.

Marcaret A. Griscom, _ Frankuin 8. WIxson,
Marcaret S, ParrisH, Martua Dopason,

FORWARDING COMMITTEE.

Grorce W. Rostns, Mary SuHaw.

SrENcER RoBERTs, - Entity B. Smyrs,
Exuten M. Cuitp, Emity H. Arxrinson,
Lyp1a B. Paxson, Anna M. Cuizp,
Henry M. Larne, Exvizasetu J. Ferris,
Atrrep H. Love, Sarau K. GILLineHam,

ANNE BIDDLE,

‘CLOTHING COMMITTEE.
All the female members of the Association, and such other women as
shall join with them in the work, constitute this Committee.
REPORT.

The time of our Annual Meeting having been changed from
the First month to the Fifth, the Report now presented embraces
a period of sixteen months.

Previous to Eleventh month last, two Associations of our
Friends existed in this city, both of which were engaged in col-
lecting money and supplies, and forwarding them for the aid of
the freedmen. The efforts of one were particularly directed to
the relief of their physical wants; the other, while embracing
this point, added to its sphere of labor that of sending teachers
and establishing schools among them. As many Friends were
members of both of these Associations, confusion sometimes
arose in the minds of contributors in regard to their separate
provinces; it was therefore concluded that an advantage would
result from their union, and the ‘“* Women’s Association of
Philadelphia for the Relief of the Freedman” and “ Friends’
Association of Philadelphia for the Aid and Elevation of the
Freedmen ”’ were merged into one organization, under the latter
title.

At the commencement of the year 1865, the schools under
our care were located at Mason’s Island and Camp Wadsworth;
Lydia T. Atkinson, Sarah A. Cadwallader and Sarah E. Lobb,
being teachers at the former place, and Mary McClain at the
latter. Margaret Preston, who had been eagaged as nurse in
the Hospital at Mason’s Island, had been sent to St. Mary’s
County, Md., to inquire into the condition of the Freed-people
on the Government farms there. She remained a few weeks,
doing what she could for their amelioration and comfort ; but,
that locality being subsequently selected by our Friends in New
ti : 4

York as a field of labor, and we having no organization else-
where requiring the services of a nurse, it was concluded to
leave her at liberty to make any other engagement. This faith-
ful laborer among the Freedmen has since been removed by
death. |

An Industrial School, which had been established at Mason’s
Island, was in successful operation, and, notwithstanding the
prevalence of sickness, which interfered with the regular attend-
ance of the pupils, a large number of garments, also bed-ticks
for the Hospital, were made by the women and children. The
services of two competent workmen were secured to give instruc-
tion to the men and boys in mat-making and cobbling, and fifty-
two pairs of shoes were repaired by them, during the continu-
ance of these schools.

On account of the continued unhealthiness of this Camp, two
of our members were appointed, in Third month of last year, to
represent to the proper authorities the condition of affairs there,
with a view to obtain a more suitable situation to which the
people might be remeved. On this mission they proceeded to
Washington, and, on their return, reported that they had suc-
ceeded in obtaining interviews with the Officers of the Freed-
men’s Bureau; and, though the sickness on the Island had
materially abated, there was a strong probability of an early
removal of the Camp. They also reported that they visited the
schools under our care, and found them in a flourishing con-
dition; that the teachers were diligently employed in the per-
formance of their several duties, and manifested untiring zeal
and devotion to the work in which they were engaged. While
in Washington, our Committee had been deeply impressed with
the destitution and suffering of many of the freed-people in that
city ; and, in consequence of their representation, an appropria-
tion of sanitary stores and clothing was sent to Eliza Heacock
for distribution amgng them.

_ Communications received from Wm. F. Mitchell depicted
great suffering at Nashville, Tenn., from insufficient food and
clothing, which induced the forwarding of money and supplies to
that locality. In acknowledging ‘their timely reception,’ he
writes that the appropriations for the Orphan Asylum established
5

_ through his exertions were especially acceptable, as he believed
‘‘they aided in saving many lives.” He says further, in rela-
tion to the work, “‘It seemed a manifest duty to collect these
poor children, and I have faith to believe that our Heavenly
Father will not allow them again to be scattered. It ig very
pleasant to-night, in the midst of our troubles, to reflect that so
many are sleeping comfortably. To one whose compassion is
infinite, I commit the new family, and look to Him both for
counsel as to its future mode of operation and the means for its
support.”’ | | |

This Asylum is still under the care of its faithful originator,
and we have, from time to time, met his request for assistance as
far as our other engagements would justify. This institution
has comforted and sheltered many a homeless little one, and we
trust that the means for its support will not be withheld.

In the Fourth month Lydia T. Atkinson was released from
her position at Mason’s Island, and resumed her duties at Camp
Wadsworth, where she remained until the Eleventh mcnth, when,
notwithstanding her continued interest in the cause, she felt that
her labors among the freed-people must for the present be
closed. Our Association shared with those among whom she
had been so long and so usefully employed, in regret at parting
with this their faithful teacher and friend. — Mary K. Brosius
was appointed to fill the vacancy caused by her removal. About
the same time Sarah E. Lobb, in consequence of ill health,
requested .to be released from service. In the ensuing month
the Camp at Mason’s Island was broken up by order of Govern-
_ ment. Mary K. Brosius was thence removed to Camp Wads-
worth, and Sarah A. Cadwallader engaged with a friend in a
school for the Freedmen at Camp Todd. The fluctuations in the
settlements of these people have subjected the teachers to fre-
quent changes; but we believe that, in every instance, the freed -
men have been permanently benefitted by the residence of our
teachers among them, even when it has been only for a short time.

Information having been received that Friends in Virginia
had opened First-day Schools for the freed-people at Lincoln,
Hillsboro’ and Waterford, much interest was felt in their efforts,
and a sum of money appropriated for the purchase of books and
stationery to aid them in the undertaking. )
6

The Association, viewing with deep regret the injustice prac-
tised toward the colored race in their exclusion from our city
railway cars, appointed a committee to visit the managers of the
respective companies, and represent our feelings upon the sub-
ject. This committee had several interviews with the directors
and officers of some of the companies, and were encouraged to
believe that the cruel prejudice against color will gradually,
though surely, be superseded by a more enlightened public senti-
ment, which will secure the extension to all citizens of an equal
participation in the public conveyances.

Although great suffering was known to exist among the freed-
people in various parts of the South, and we were sensible of
their earnest importunities for school instruction, yet, for a time,
it seemed almost impossible to obtain definite information of the
points at which it would be safe to locate teachers, or to find
reliable agents to dispose of clothing in localities where it was
known to be needed. After various letters of inquiry on this
account were addressed by our committees to individuals, several
channels opened for the distribution of supplies, and suitable
situations offered for the teachers we were desirous of sending
into the field.

Through the representations of some of the agents of the
Freedmen’s Bureau, also of our friend Reuben Tomlinson,
Inspector of Schools in South Carolina, we were induced to turn
our attention toward the establishment of schools in that State.
Laura Towne, of Philadelphia, who has for several years de-
voted her time and energies to the elevation of the colored peo-
ple there, being on a visit to our city, attended one of our meet-
ings, and gave much valuable information, which decided us to
send two teachers, Philena Heald and Sarah M. Ely, to St.
Helena Island. This island, on the coast of South Carolina, is
ten miles in length, and contains a shifting population of about
three thousand, nearly all colored people. Most of the planta-
tions having been sold for taxes, several of them were divided
into sections, and appropriated to school purposes. The follow-
ing extracts from some of the many letters from the above
teachers give some idea of their surroundings.
7

From Philena Heald.—Our school numbers seventy-two pupils, chiefly
adults, and many walk a mile, after toiling hard all day, to attend school
in the evening. Never have I seen more persevering industry and steady
determination ; and surely, if their intellects are not equal to those of
their pale brothers and sisters, (as some would have us believe,) what
they lack in brilliancy would be more than made up in earnestness, con-
tinuity, close attention, untiring labor, and a deep and burning desire to
obtain knowledge. They are sensitive, ambitious, and keenly alive to
rebuke or censure. The field of labor is truly one of great interest—one
that unfolds new phases of character each day, and presents fresh in-
centives to action. Their implicit confidence in those who try to help
them, and the ever-present thought of their long, weary bondage,
attended with every indignity that humanity can suffer or mind conceive,
quickly awakens an affection for them, and an intense abiding hope that
we may be enabled to aid them in some small measure, at least. We are
glad that you are satisfied with our endeavors, for we constantly feel how
broad is the field and how powerless we are to do the work that needs to
be done. May it be ours ever to do the duty nearest to us with cheer-
ful, earnest hearts; for, if the soul is in the action, it must accomplish
some good. The garden seeds were thankfully received, and were a
blessing to the people. We are most grateful for the response to our call
to aid the old and infirm, and, on their behalf, we thank you. The people
become alarmed instantly, if there is the slightest allusion made to our
returning North. They say, “Oh, dont talk about it.” One said, ““ We

hopes dat neber happen while we lib.”—S¢. Helena Island, Third
Month 22, 1866.

From Sarah M. Ely.—We have a few children, and I can see how
very much easier it is for them to learn, and how with them one could
soon write home of tasks mastered ; but our work is with the older ones,
and I tell you truly, I am more content to work on with them by slow
steps, seeing their earnest desire, their close attention, patience and
hope, than to have wonderful accounts to send home. Several persons
whose eyes are dim with age, come regularly. One, in particular, is of
interest to me. She is always attentive; glance at her when you will, her
lips are moving. She spells every word she hears spelt in her own class
or in the other, and counts each figure. She did not know a letter when
she began; now spells quite well, out of book, in four letters. Her eyes
are so old and dim, I scarce hope of her ever reading much; but she
may in time. All improve and try to do their best, are keen to hear,
and strive to learn, do not give any trouble to speak of, in regard to
order.—St. Helena Island, Fourth Month, 1st, 1866.

From Philena Heald.—In our scholars there still exists a deep desire
to learn, an unabated interest in all that pertains to the acquisition of
knowledge, and we are gratified to discover, day by day, some advance-
ment. It is sufficient inducement for us to double our diligence, and to
8

work with earnest hearts. for the elevation of these our brothers and
sisters, when we find that even the surface waters are disturbed; for so
long were all the channels of heart, and soul, and mind left dormant, that
one might only be surprised that life was not extinct; but, on the con-
trary, God hath kept alive and vigorous the fountains there; there is an
innate love of right in their hearts that shows itself in various directions.
I am often surprised that, these, who have had nothing to elevate, but all -
to deteriorate and degrade, should have remaining so much real good-
ness of heart, so much sense of justice, so much honesty.

Many of our pupils work diligently at their crops before they come to
school, and walk a long distance; yet, for the most part, they overcome
the weariness, that is the nal result, and enter on the duties of the
evening with earnestness and perseverance. ©

A number who did not know their figures are now ciphering quite
readily, and others, who had not mastered the alphabet, can now read and
write.

The people are succeeding nicely with their crops—tteir aie are
thriving; the seeds you. sent are now represented by a luxuriant growth
of vegetables, much to the satisfaction of those who planted them.
They. are so proud of their success in labor, and in living independently.

The church attended by the people is about five miles from this place.
It is situated in the midst of a grove of magnificent live oaks, some of
whose larger branches are equal in size to an ordinary tree, and, covered
with gray moss hanging in rich festoons from every bough, are an impos-
ing sight. The minister is good and earnest, and reaches the hearts of
his people with his simple eloquence far better than many a fashionable
audience is reached by the learned and popular clergyman. One senti-
ment particularly impressed me: “Do the ’filictions, the troubles, the
griefs we have, hurt us? No. They make us grow; they be the means
that God send to we to make we good; they be our growth.”—<t.
Helena, Fourth Month 17th, 1866.

About the middle of First month, Cornelia Hancock, an
applicant for position of teacher under the auspices of this
Association, went to Charleston to examine into the wants of
the freedmen, and to open a school, if a suitable situation could
be found.

The accounts received from her decided us to re-open a school,
formerly taught at Mt. Pleasant, a healthy location in Charles-
ton harbor, about three miles from the city. The plantations
in the vicinity are mostly occupied mie Northern men anxious to
benefit the colored race.

The school was opened i in an old contibis (occupied during the
9

war as an hospital,) with fifty scholars; and, as soon as the news
spread that “a real Yankee tea¢her’’ had come, the number
icreased to one hundred. A native teacher was temporarily
provided by Reuben Tomlinson, and, subsequently, Mary A.
Taylor, Carrie Taylor and Eliza E. Way were also sent to Mt.
Pleasant. The subjoined extracts from letters give details of
interest.

From Cornelia Hancock.—Boxes 19 and 30 were safely received,
and their contents distributed to our school children, much to their
pleasure and the relief of our eyes. The bright linseys look beautiful in
this part of the country, and, since they have had clothes to wear, the
children think it worth while to wash their faces and comb their hair.
The First-day school is almost three times its former size, as the children
thought it wrong to appear there in rags. We have reduced the day
school to about 150 scholars by excluding the youngest portion. The
people are so interested in having their children educated, that they want
them to come when entirely too young. Toteachthe children punctuality
has been very difficult. They were much astonished to find that I taught
on cold or rainy days. At present the punctuality in attendance is very
good, and it is a gratifying sight to see them line the roads on their
way to school. Their eagerness to get up head in their classes has to
be curbed rather than encouraged, and there is nothing my scholars are
not willing to attempt.

Finding much inquiry as to how those who must work could obtain
instruction, we have opened a night school three evenings in the week,
and have about forty scholars steadily attending. The number will in-
crease as soon as they find it a permanent institution.

This week, for the first time, we had a sewing school; but we were
surprised at their sewing. The house servants all sew well, and the

children have learned from them.—Mé. Pleasant, Third Month 2\st,
1866.

From Mary A. Taylor.—* * * Idid not feel until last week
that I was fully under way; and now I have blackboard, charts and
slates, and think we make good use of them. The schools do much better
now that they are divided; I have an attendance of 65 every day, and
very often 70. The school-room is not very large, but is in a very pleas-
ant place near the beach, with a splendid view oneach side; and I think,
when the warm weather comes, will be as cool as any place we could get.
We have three doors on one side, which is more than many school houses
can boast of up north. I have the benches ranged around the room, and
when my band gets in there are not many vacant seats, :

We thought at first. that we would only have fifty scholars apiece in the
three schools ; but more crept in, and I had not the heart to dismiss them,
10

they seem so anxious to come; and indeed it is wonderful how regularly
they attend. When we first commenced I had not one that knew all the
alphabet; and although we have had the charts only about two weeks, I
have a class of 20 who can spell and pronounce in four letters. Next
week I purpose putting them in the First Reader. Nearly all the rest
can spell in three letters. I shall be so glad when I get them all out of
the alphabet. Some of them make very good attempts at drawing and
printing letters, and I hope in my next letter to send you some speci-
mens. They will be about all I can send yet. When we start out in the
morning the children spring up from all directions, and we have not gone
many steps before we have.a long train following us; and I am sure you
would all be amused could you see us. We often wish that the friends
could just spend one day with us, as I am sure it would be enjoyed by all
parties. My interest increases every day, and every day there is some-
thing transpires to make me feel thankful that we persevered in coming.
Our night school is still increasing; and it is a great satisfaction to see
with what eagerness old men and women will take hold of the primer, and
try to master the alphabet. We have many that can read and write, and
who are very quick at figures. I enjoy the night school, as it is a change
from the day. All the girls who are large enough sew one afternoon in
the week. We do not propose anything that they are not willing to try.
When they hem two towels, or make two aprons or handkerchiefs, we
give them one to carry home; and they sew away as quietly and industri-
ously as any old women.—M¢. Pleasant, 3d mo. 21, 1866.

In the Third month of the present year the farm known as
Camp Wadsworth was restored to its former owners. The school
consequently was broken up, and Mary K. Brosius was trans-
ferred to Vienna, six miles distant.

We have also established two additional schools in Fairfax
County: one at Lewensville, in charge of Martha A. Wright,
and one at Fairfax Court House, under the care of Mary Me-
Bride; also, recently, one at Waterford, Loudoun County, Vir-
ginia, for which Sarah Steer, a resident of that place, has been
selected as teacher.

The position occupied by Mary McBride at Fairfax Court
-House is a very unpleasant one. Her mission has been bitterly
opposed, even to threats of personal violence, some attempts at
which have been made. Her earnestness and determination are
apparent, as shown by the following extracts from a letter re-
cently received :

“There is certainly a great deal of talk, but that troubles me very
little. There are some things that are very unpleasant here for me, but
r 11

I am determined to stay here until sent by the proper authorities into
another field, or dismissed the service entirely.” She further remarks :
“Tt is not labor for me, as some would call it; I Jove the work.”

Her school now numbers forty-five pupils. ~~

The school under the care of Mary K. Brosius, at Vienna,
although established so recently, is very satisfactory. There is
not material in the surrounding country for a large school, but
education is none the less needed. Her last account gave the
number of pupils as twenty-six. Two instances of progress were
stated by her, as follows: ‘I have two little girls not over five
years old, who have learned their letters in one week.” She
also states they desire her to open a First-day School, which she
intends doing.

In the Twelfth month last we were called to mourn the re-
moval by death of our beloved friend and associate, Macpherson
Saunders. Connected with this Society from its organization,
and ever active in all efforts to extend its usefulness, we shall
long miss the steady judgment and quiet decision that gave such
value to his counsels. Endeared to us by the genial cheerful-
ness and earnestness which he brought to the consideration of
all our affairs, we mourn the loss of a valued friend and co-
laborer.

By this review it will be seen that we are now less busily en-
gaged than formerly, in supplying clothing to the destitute and
suffering freedmen, who are passing from a state of servitude and
dependence, with its corresponding degradation, to freedom, with
all its possibilities of progress and improvement. Our present
efforts are directed almost exclusively to the establishment and
support of schools among them. With the restoration of peace.
and the general resumption of habits of industry, their privations
must soon give place to comparative comfort and thrift, so that
the great needs of the colored people in the future will be facili-
ties for education and adequate protection from the prejudice.
and rapacity of their former masters.

The schools we have opened among them are all actively and
vigorously conducted by conscientious and efficient teachers,
whose sympathies are with the scholars in their efforts to learn.
We have been eminently successful in securing the services of
12 :
those who, from a sense of duty, have entered into the work,
and who are peculiarly fitted for its varied requirements.

No feature in the remarkable history of the freed-people is
more striking than their thirst after the elements of knowledge.
A thirst which should operate as a powerful incentive to all who
have their welfare at heart, to supply to the utmost the means
for their education. While we require liberal subscriptions to
carry on the schools now established, we are already solicited to
open others, which we are desirous of doing as rapidly as our
funds will justify. Now is evidently the accepted time. The
past is full of warning, to neglect no opening for service in this
great work. The prejudice and cupidity which have oppressed
the African race in the past, are liable to rise again into do-
minion, and none can tell how soon insuperable obstacles may
be thrown in the way of our efforts. The proclamation which
made the bondman legally free, has not changed the hearts of.
those who have hitherto ruled in the late slave-holding States ;
and though we may hope that the light of truth is in some degree
breaking through the dark cloud that has rested over the South,
yet there is much to dread in the prospect of the resumption of

authority by the State Governments. Let us persevere while
we can, and to this end let the members of the Society. of
Friends, who have been so long identified with the education of
these people, and whose ancestors were among the first to ac-
knowledge their claims to the equal enjoyment of the rights of
our common humanity, see to it that our present opportunity is
not wasted.

The number of those who are willing to devote themselves to
the work of instruction has thus far kept pace with the require-
ments of our schools. Will not those who stay at home give of
their abundance to support those already engaged in this labor of
Jove, and to send others into it?

By the report of our Treasurer it will appear that, after ap-
propriating the necessary funds to meet the current expenses of
the ten teachers already in our empioy, but little is left to con-
tinue our operations for the ensuing season, td extend them as
new fields open to our view, or to aid the cases of suffering
coming to the notice of the Committees; and, in conclusion, we
18

desire to present anew the claims of this Association upon our
great body of prosperous and thriving Friends in city and
country. It is but a poor recompense to the despised and
oppressed descendants of the African race, whose toil has so
long enriched our merchants and manufacturers, and furnished,
as it were, the life blood of American commerce, that we should
pave their way from slavery to freedom by supplying the neces-
saries of life to the helpless and infirm, who are suffering for
want of them, at the same time that we open to those from
whom knowledge has been so long shut out, the glorious light of
education, with all its vivifying and improving results.

. To pay our share of this debt should be the earnest resolve of
every member of our Society, and we rejoice to know that there
are those ready to be workers as far as the means are furnished.
First, and most important, money is needed; second, all kinds
of dried fruit and garden seeds, books, toys for the little ones,
and clothing for men, women and children,—in short, anything
that the bounty of friends can bestow toward the needs of these
objects of our care will benefit them, and at the same time bless
the giver, in the remembrance of the assurance, ‘‘ Inasmuch as
ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, ye
have done it unto me.”
14

Report or Henry M. Larne, TREASURER.

 

1865. DR.
Ist mo.'10."To Balanee Om BAR icles criadekcwskccheecoceek see ee eidey $2,047 09
Cash received from within limits of Philadelphia
Yearly Meeting.............. PEN Cc pac pec spehennessniey yekiiae 10,743 53
Cash received from other sources............sscccseeee ee 527 35
r ny for goods sold........... aiid dsudote's abesonce ‘ 57 21
ba f for Interest......... Wetseaecbuonpeucbenwdwhees x 60 00
$14,435 18
CR. d
By Cash paid Clothing Committee............... $5760 99
Education Ae edn aca oh Lani 1848 89
rr Sanitary oF ey nie a beepose DBO OO
“ “Forwarding ‘ peidndelles eaba 336 77
Fr “Room Mead LRM AEE 200 00

“Temporary Home Committee... 100 00
“Nashville Orphan Asylum........ 850 00
rt ‘« Baltimore Friends’ Association 250 00

“ “« Printing Circulars, &c......... sone) Lee Oe

“« Appropriated for Teachers.............. --- 2500 00 $12,554 57
1866. Teac
5th mo. To Balance on hand.................scseeee pao eave diveetet F nasesenps $188) 61

The above includes the account of the late M. Saunders, Treasurer from First
month to Twelfth month, 1865,

Henry M. Laine, Treasurer,
Philadelphia, 5th mo., 1866, No. 30 N. Third St.

We have examined the foregoing account and find it correct.

James Mort. i
Philadelphia, 5th mo. 1st, 1866. Aurrep H. Love, } Auditors.
15

TREASURER’S REPORT OF CONTRIBUTIONS,
From 1st mo., 1865, to 5th mo., 1866.

CasH CONTRIBUTIONS.

From Philadelphia............. -- $6454 15
Radnor........ Beer yay 128 00
Haverford .iciviied 0052 37 00
Merion...... Sie dsacedk on 33 50
Valley..:...... Siabeup ake be » “112° 60
PMO obcccs scsess tan 17 00
PMNS canted xu sne os - 35°00
TEWYUOOG: oiose i etcuss 24 50
RIDCRDATS oid ria 51 00
UWS ac iickcucnioncas sch 68 80
Warminster............ ew 54 00
PIVMOnER SS oc geek 100 50
Providence .............-- 42 00
NoOrristow it <..scasetetee 37 50
RUICHIANG ie oc iaeth tee 50 00
Wrightstown............. 175 28
Buckingham.............. 114 45
Middletown............... 150 00
Plumstead......... Say 27 25
EACHOIUEY sccceonce mecssces gr O0
Makéfield;:..:icise cet ayy 92: 00
Nowtown si sshtiey sdcsis: 988.00
Bristol i esau 82 50
Quakertown, N. J....... 37 00
COMCORAL. csceieik ise) ebcenbbb 15
Wilmington, Del......... 305 00
Darby....... ecm ene nenbehs - 327 00
Middletown, Del. Co... 32 75
Providence.s ceviecsss ate 27 50
Willistown...... ened dy 42 00
Goshen eerie: ce 64-80
Newtown, Del. Co...... 32.00
Birmingham.............. 50 00
Sadebuly si sencei och 443 25 50
London Grove... -....+ ctiue abe £0
Hockessin..,...... PSE 86 25
Now Gardeniscis.cs.esce 53.75
ObUee cis. caccere Sa 25 00
West Grove......c....s00 189 45
Kennett sii seus ssc iatis 166 30
Mill Creek, Del.......... 122 00
Fallowftela sistvcncsccik 174 00
DGG Bae eisai cease 19 00
Camden, Del............ ee LONGO
Comer OL oe Be 00
Penn’s Grove, Pa...... ergs 08
Roaring Creek, “ ..... yes LG
Millville are eer 69 50
Maiden Creek, “...... 21 00

 

Chesterfield, N. J.......
Trenton Annet
Evesham, Pe cehise
Camden, hab hae
Woodbury, ‘ bison
Salem, Cl vas

Upper Greenwich, M: J

Piles Grove,
Greenwich, “
Hancock’s Bridge, bad
Mullica Hill, -
Columbus,
Haddonfield, if
Wrightstown, ts
North-west Fork Mo.
Meeting, Md............
East Northingham Pre-

parative Meet’g, Md.
Little Britain Prepara-
tive Meeting, Md......
m— Denton, Md.........0dde
Goshen Meeting, Ohta;
Deerfield if
Miami my ba
MapleGrove,“ Ind.
To Cash received from—
Jas. Spence, Liverpool, Eng...
Nath. Barney, Yonkers, N. Y.,
S. Marshall, Millwaukee, Wis.
Allen Lefretra, Squan Village,
THs. Wu bui eaene shaiibenis eusibaaa + wee
Hannah S. Gregory, Berca, 0.
S. 8S. Gregory, se ‘
A Friend, Port Chester, N. Y.
Richard Turner, Kent, Md.....
Rachel Haines, Harford co. Md

John Alston, Middletown, Del.
Samuel S. Lippincott, St.

Lionis, v Mouctisaes, ceew. aie
0.02 Tiipand \ ci ie bree
A. A. Toffey, Pawlings, N. mY.
Alfred Scrantlebury, Ill........
A Friend, Sterling, ‘*........
R.A. 8. Paitbary, «00
J. M. W. OF cassie
John Nichols and others Co-

lumbiana, Ohio...............

A Friend, per Hannah Lippin-
COtt ... «2. Ad: beseseae tens dee eotane

242

50 00
Levi Snyder, Mulford Square,

John F. Gilpin, Avondale......
Sarah W. Doughten, Lumber-
tom, Nid cise ouweuned nena ‘

Wilson Dennis, Bucks Co......
James Lewis, Medford, N. J...
Jobn Hall, Hestonville....-....
John Cooper, Columbia, Pa...
Yardleyville Freedmen’s As-

sociation .... ... ee dnbardaeshesn

Phila., 5th mo., 1866.

16

10 00
5 00

10 00
10 00
2 00
50 00
10 00

59 50

Mullica Hill Freedmen’s As-

SOCIMEION cies ccke cc usii, 40 00
Longwood Yearly Meeting... 16 50
Mt. Holly Sewing Society...... 13 50
Pupils of Bellevue Institute... 20 50.
For Mdze. sold Freedmen...... 57 21
Bal. from Education Com’tee, 59 23

Af Clothing af 110 29
TRE r OB iiss sess ose tscsnnaep eoceesen 160, 00
$12,388 09

Henry M. Laine, Treasurer,

No. 30.N. Third St.

 

Contributions received by Committee on Schools and: Supplies from

1st mo., 1865, to 11th mo., 1865. ‘i
Mullica Hill.........ceccessscecesceercsseneees One box Bed Clothing.
Bucks County....005 5 ceitecee eeeceseeeeoeees Two ‘* Clothing.
DoylestOwn...... ssssonses cescoecceceteccnses Che) Mig. re
Mary’ Atkinson. cee. cc ccc ey se ceks coseeenes MID FR: oth eR
H, Abin gton.............,sceeeceeowes coreevees One “* 86 pieces Clothing.
Bethany Colored Mission.................. Making Clothing:
Rebecca Fussell... coe ccs celts eee » Eee: | :

Anna M. Oni deeeths

eee eeee

veeeee

Millville, > phabsset Masada hue Chena egsicces he One box Clothing.
PHUAGbELU ne csudepeccascests vuenes “dried Rusk.
Rachel w. aioe Pee Tea rere eset Tens asinhhe Quilts for Orphanage.
Christiana Priends., ..c,.cpnsepereanes scence One bale of Clothing.
"WAPMIDSIEN, 2 Aye. desc scenet oteserkeneqy nes SEER OR Herth eran e +
Rachel Wy MOUrerastcrctrecrccneecs sags seuss Clothing and Quilts.
Fishing Greek; Purr oe ese. Two boxes Clothing.
George and Kate DBP tobccstayantaceren Children’s Books and Toys.
Prrtbage; Wi! Wicccdecies cnvebeie'e pavcasescens Two barrels Clothing.
Job H. Jackson, West Grove, Pais * boxes Clothing.
PROVEBOU f6h Seccdle stead eHEGE san ebeeetaee desmee ve “
Fisting Greek) Pectin wl eee Yarn.
Margaret A. Griseoni cae! ee schoss Fruit, &c.
Reading.......... MOceccraes specu mudectres totais One bundle Clothing.
Peal: Herissey Pidretavet ate a peau esusate aneete “ parrel Pickles.
ntaeernaeee Uae te tueaudarchseea tt « - dried Fruit.
B. Underhill Were ips ststewhcsnssssceneeetn Flannels.

The above were received Hy the late M. on Treasurer.

Philadelphia, 12th mo., 1865.

he
Clothing, etc., received by Treaswrer, from 11th mo., 1865, to 5th mo., 1866.

|

Charles Harper, Jenkintown............ - 5 doz. woolen Hose.

Franklin S. Wilson.........0++. savbben ange .» Boys Clothing. .

Hy. SCL MAN, sis ciccceesne cate cusscsee scene Clothing.

M. and H. Bancroft,.......0... ssecnenewacess 14 woolen Shirts.

George Hubbard........... bss (Pan suly rad estis de 6 Garments,

Richard Wilkins ....... cesses eapeeeevt iota tig

Mra; StAPlER i scsepescccesecderecpwrcevans clipe

On By Ballo well. coee csc uke se eceey bm cpio ed Hf *
_ Friends of Fishing Creek .. . 134 Garments.

rf Mullicd Fin. oo icesth seenee sh 2 bales Clothing.

BE. R. Comly, Byberry........0eesseoe seves lbundle ‘

Woodstown Freedmen’s Aid. ........... 1 box :

West Grover si. 2eicscacs cab cap esseassienmrmre:.2 DOXES i

Buckin gh arniesccsesce ose) ce ind ann veneutens eo . 1 sack i

Mechanicsville, Pa... .sessapedaeaganieenens 1 box y

Yardleyville: Aids. 3.03. ccuy  ispewtnsceneats 1 bundle

Mrs. Oarr: Bucking Ramis use iidecenenede 2 bundles ‘

Thos. Speakman. ..is- estes >. Sap ausen bouts lbundle

Friends of Goshetiy cc inti -tsensesneen nies . 1 box a"

i WITMStOW cesses. cso. ilwabhacy. ts .

ASsbIa Way Par rect sent secureeecaey sh "

A. and P, GUase esi a aeene 1 pale "

Jo FTO ieee sibaenunescseunne (4 oy .

Enoch Hees Roaring, viene Lavy acnene 1 a .

CTs Llib CMR ik ea YRMURRR LES 1 barrel “
Friends of Norristown, Pa. saaputeeiueteares 1 box ut
Ruth Dhawan ee Mivece ui aueue 1 weno a
Charles ‘Raighn eric ceitesds svceseu tues "
Friends of Mullica Hill.....c.sssssseceeses it bale i
Radnor, Aid Society). sain sd>-psiesesaingi nace ‘1 box “
Rebecca Brooks) Wencccs ces siubeeschbes conte nee

A BRO eiees cided secede Unean on sewn
Addis ROM CLS pve uwnd cng sdkactwa abnde odsh ant x
Sarah: P. "Lia domayimkessiie sense iierbees'ses cos o
AnnA Bs Prency ys sis sohs ssnasceus sch sperms one "

Friends of Wilmington............0.2+00++ 1 bale Clothing.

W HOCK GSB ia i. deh fucapdee pth . Clothing.

ae Warminster wisi. aes.. 2... 1 box Hs

ph: Newhony Pasit..sicdaaivecded cab 1 bale if
Yardleyville Freedmen’s Association.. 5 bundles Clothing.
Bether S. Logan...cccccccccbacseres dees ceceee 3 " 7
Wm. Nichols, from Citizens of Colum-

Diana Co., OBiGssesebs ab grea dedet so0+s0s~ 2 large boxes Clothing.
John Perry. ibsleee eh eeaupactebion afeok bow cvess 1 box
Hancock Bridge: Aid... ii ssieveeses idoereeed 2 boxes ‘f
General John Ely.........ssessecnesseeeeees : Plothinge
H. Mi Tine disc stvuuehs adebwcini pls tee vases
O. Hy Wilsons sims seunpte.s ih vahis delle Sasieds ae "

Wilson: GC erna passin stnessunsaedees pcos) Packing boxes.
— Pickering, Newton, Pa.............. 1 bag Clothing.
New Garden Soldiers Aid...............+. 1 box new Clothing.
A Friend... .cukssninaendiis oeisededs ities vesase Clothing.
“ : “ce
Friends of Radnor.......ss+.0+.0.04+ oebean 3 bundles Clothing.
" _ BTIREOL sansntas napseo-e chan onan Clothing.

m Plymouth........ cose soeeee 2 boxes Clothing.
2
18

A Friend, Fishing Creek........ n\deeees .. Stockings.
Frederick PAXSOH. eee) Rueeeseateracacs 9 doz. Stockings.
Friends of Yardleyville...........s.sesseeee 1 bale Clothing.
Mary Marple. ccssaah ere. eanunees Large lot Clothing.
Yardleyville Relief.......... Peek Abra ue bag "
Friends of Byberry........-..++ cceeevessees ith
A. L. Townsend........ Sleverseeeciseeathuens ; Clothing.
Friends of Trenton: cic cos ees peeenaes 2 barrels Clothing.
uid Bart occ csceesencosesesesess cape OX Re
Quakertown Aid Society...... van bebe peas ner "
Deborah F. Wharton. ..ibiss....--.eressuge gia parle me
Friends of Newtown, Delaware Co...... ‘
Jenkins Bros., Boston, Mass....... esa & hee Books.
Esther 8. Logan Lees ynkeee aals cos kyene uae ae Sunde Clothing.
PN WALIIGI OV is sucnsssvensensnvenes escapee
Friends of Abington............-.00. A 1 bie “3
" Wilmington. .......-.00. cooseee 26 Garments.
C. M. Rodgers....... shomenbnedinvenapveanseras MRR CHO:
MLLOT PEs CAM aves neoser tau pennonps a eeeaae Dried Fruit, &c.
Donors unknown........+00 inaaealasceunee . Several lots Clothing.
Andrew McPheeters........ hu ghase esoreeeee Drayage during the year.
Mellor, Bains & Mellor.............. sees. Buttons and Combs.
Samuel Childs......... a ndash bnsnsoeacnens Clock.
es as OOD ss avken xavsenansdnneninns iaanenane , Clothing.

Edward Peabody...

Sees Coveseeesesees

All of which on ae forwarded.

Phila., 5th mo., 1866.

Henry M. Laine,
/ No. 30 N. Third Street.

 

Clothing forwarded by Women’s Association, from 1st mo. to 11th mo.
1865.

L. T. Atkinson, Mason’s Island—
652 new Garments.
22 Comfortables.

Laura Towne, St. Helensville, S. ome

- 363 new Garments.

6 Comfortahles.

Margaret Preston, Gov. Farms, Md—
187 new Garments.
30 pairs Shoes.

Gaynor Heacock, Port Royal, 8. C—
410 new Garments.

W. F. Mitchell, Nashville, Tenn—
368 new Garments.
5 Quilts.

Martha Baynes, Baltimore, Md—

: 218 new Garments.

S. A. M. Canfield, Memphis, Tenn—

246 new Garments.

Eliza Heacock, Washington, D. C.—
251 new Garments.
10 Comfortables.
2 Sheets, Hats, &.

Philadelphia, 11th mo., 1865.

 

A. G. Fales, Washington, D. C.—
209 old Garments.

L, T, Atkinson, Mason’s Island—
100 new Garments.

8. B. Dugdale, lowa—
210 new Garments.

A. G. Fales, Washington, D. C.—
32 new Garments.
166 old ee

Julia A. Wilbur, Washington, D. C.—
161 new Garments.
133 old “

C. J. H. Nicholls, Georgetown, D. C.—
52 new Garments.

Wn. F. Mitchell, Tenn —
224 new Garments.

S. A. M. Canfield, Memphis, Tenn. —
405 new Garments.

Isabella Tyson, Baltimore, Md.—
210 new Garments.

Col. O. Brown, Richmond, Va.—
313 new Garments.

Anne Bippug, Secretary.
19

Supplies forwarded by Supply Committee from 1st mo, 1865, to 11th mo.

No, 21.
22.
23.
24,
25.
26.
By.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44,
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54,
55.
56.
57.

1865.

1 Box Bed Clothing, &c., Mason’s Island.

th ee te tk et et ek et pt et tt tt tt et fed et et et ed et et

“
“
“
“
“

“

Children’s Clothing, Wm. A. Mitchell, Nashville, Tenn.
Lizzie Bradshaw, Murfeesboro, Tenn.

Clothing, 8. A. Cadwalader, Mason’s Island.
Do. cc cc oc “ ,

40 pairs Blankets, " by ‘6 ff

Dried Apples, & “ “ The

Dry Goods and Fruit, ‘“ ef * «

Clothing, “ “ “ “

- Yarn, &c., Lieut. O’Brien, St. Mary’s Co., Md.
112 Garments, Friends’ Association, Baltimore.
Children’s Clothing, Friends’ Association, Baltimore.
Clothing, &c., Wm. F. Mitchell, Nashville, Tenn.

” Lydia T. Atkinson, Mason’s Island.
“cc ‘

Dried Rusk, i " .
Quilts, Wm. F. Mitchell, Nashville, Tenn.
Sundries,  “ ’ A ”

Do. Eliza Heacock, Washington, D. C0.
Clothing, &c., Lydia T, Atkinson.
“ce cc “

“ “cc ce *

Bed Ticking, &c., Wm. F. Mitchell, Nashville, Tenn.
Second Hand Clothing, Lydia T. Atkinson.
“ c “ “ “cc

“ its it) iT “

Old Clothing, 8. A. Cadwallader, Mason’s Island.
cc oc “ of r¢3 cc

it} “ ce “c “ “

Clothing and Dried Fruit, Eliza Heacock, Washington, D. 0.

Bbl. Pickles, Lydia T. Atkinson. ,

“

“

Dried Apples, - f

Box 256 Garments, Flannels, Dried Fruit, S. A. Cadwallader.
“ “

Clothing,
ce “ it)
“ a“ “

Clothing, S. A. Cadwallader.
cc “ “cc

The above were forwarded by the late M. Saunders, Treasurer.
Philadelphia, 121h mo. 1865.
2U

Report of Forwarding Committee.

No.
“ilmira G. Fales, Washington, D. 0.—
1. 111 new and old Garments.
M. Humes, Knoxville, Tenn.—
2. 304 new and old Garments.
50 pairs Blankets.
Wn. F. Mitchell, eee Tenn.—
3. 251 new Garments.
4, 149) *§ she
5. 147 old “
Gen. Ralph Ely, Columbia, S. C.—
6. 322 new Garments.
40) aun oe re
M. St. Leon Loud, Vicksburg, Miss.—
8. 244 old Garments.
9. 450 new +
Trimmings, &c.
S. A. M. Canfield, Memphis, Tenn. a
10. #367 new and old Garments.
40 pairs Shoes.
Wilmer Walton, Stevenson, Ala.—
ll. 343 new Garments.
12. 210 old “
Martha Schofield, Wadmalaw, S. C.
13. 204 new Garments.
14. Beddiag, &c.
John Needies, Baltimore, Md.—
15. 269 old Garments.
16. 149 new at
Eliza Heacock, Washington, D, C.—
17. 600 old Garments.
Martha Schofield, Rockville, 8. C.—
18. 187 old Garments.
Trimmings. —
Cornelia Hancock, Charleston, S. C.
19. 353 new Garments,
Gen. R. Saxton, Charleston, S. C.,
“for Atlanta, Geo.” —
20. 154 old Garments.
21. 306 new ~
Chaplain Goodfellow, Huntsv’le, Ala.

22. 282 old Garments.
J. P. Rutherford, A. Q. M., Charles-
ton, 8. C
23. 150new Garments.
61 old nt

Gaynor Heacock, Beaufort, 8. C.—
24. 125 new Garments.
87 old rs
Almira G. Fales, Washington, D. C.
25. 67 old Garmerts.

 

Philena Heald, St. Helena, 8.{0.—
26. 143 new Garments*
40 old rr
27. Books, Slates, &.
Garden Seeds.
Lucy Doolittle, Washington, D. C.—
28. Flannels.
Jos. Shultz, Wilmington, N. Ga.
29. School and Reading Books
Cornelia Hancock, Charleston, S. O.
30. 214 new Garments.
45 old #
Jos. B. Dugdale, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa.
31. 75 new Garments.
1 piece Bed Ticking.
Wilmer Walton, Stevenson, Ala.—

32. Garden Seeds.
16 pairs Shoes, (childrens.) |
96 ‘ . Stockings, “
12 “ Mittens, A

A. M. Arlott, Centerville, Md.—
33. 92 new Garments.
J. Wesley Pritchard, Centerville, Md.
34, 96 new Garments.
Maria Mann, Washington, D. C.—
35. 34 new Garments.
Phila. Co. Prison, for destitute col.
Soldiers.
36. 60 old Garments.
Philena Heald, St. Helena, 8S. C.—
37. 174 new Garments.
Stationery, &c..
Mary A. Taylor, Mt. Pleasant, 8. C.
38. 98 new Garments.
Books. —
Almira G. Fales, Washington, D. C.,
39. 248 old Garments.
Ella P. Way, Mt. Pleasant, S. C_—
40. 240 new Garments.
Gen. John Ely, Lexington, Ky.—
41. 237 new Garments.
Cornelia Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.
Garden Implements.
Garden Seeds.
Louisa EH. Ricks, Washington, D. C.
Flannels, Muslins, &.
Several Friends—
150 old Garments for individual
cases of Freedmen.

.

Total during the 16 months, 100 boxes.
The above were forwarded from llth mo., 1865, to 5th mo., 1866.

Phila,, 5th mo., 1866.

Hesee. M, Larne,
No. 30 N. Third St.
pevvuvvuvvevvuvvevvvrvvevvvrvvevevvuvv~vv~evvvr<«evvwrvv~rvrvwrerrwrr«"Tn tw wtwTtTt TT"

 

 

~wTrwrfreeeejrerv,"vrrorwwrrwrofewewwrwrnnTTyTT‘TT‘*Tt*TTTTTTT""*""t"t"rtrtrrrvrvrrrerer+ereeewewveuowveeve»«e»«ev+rvwyrervwrvwrvrvrvyr;wyvrywrevrvrvyevvyryv*Y*

 

THIRD ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

Friends’ Association

OF

PHILADELPHIA

FOR THE

AID AND ELEVATION OF THE FREEDMEN.

a
GOT CFV CTS VGC G GSTS TOSS GGT OSGI GT FSCS IGF TIT IT IGT ITT ITI VIII TIT TIT STATISTI VDT VT ITIT TTT ITT IT TESTI ITTSTAT TTT TTT TTT T TTI TTS

PHILADELPHIA:
MERBIH BW & BON, PRINTERS,
No. 243 Arch Street, below Third Street.
1867.

 

 

 

 

 

PCC TTT TTS TT SOT SOV TT TTF FST FSGS TV VV VV IVVIVT
THIRD ANNUAL REPORT

‘OF THE

Friends’ Association |

OF

PHILA DBE P Et

FOR THE

AID AND ELEVATION OF THE FREEDMEN.

PHILADELPHIA:
MERRIHEW & BON, PRIN TERS,
No. 243 Arch Street, below Third Street. ©
1867.
OFFICERS,

 

SECRETARIES,

JACOB M. ELLIS,
325 Walnut St., Phila.

ANNIE COOPER,
1626 Filbert St.

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY,

ANNIE COOPER,
1626 Filbert St.

TREASURER,

HENRY M. LAING, :
30 N. Third St. :

STANDING COMMITTEES.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE,
Martua Dopeson,
Harriet EH. Stockty,
Jos..M. Truman, JR.,
Margaret A. Griscom,

Epitn W. ATLEE.

Louisa J. RoBErts,
Aurrep H. Lovz,
Lyp1a GILLINGHAM,
Jacos M. ELuIs,

PURCHASING COMMITTEE.
Franxuin 8. WILSON,

Margaret A. GrRISCOM,
Marta Dopason.

Marearet S. ParrisH,

FORWARDING COMMITTEE.
Mary Saaw,

Emity B. Smyra,
Emity H. ArKrnson,
Anna M. Cuizp,
ExizasetuH J. Frrris,
Saran K. GiLinenam,

Grorce W. Ross, ‘
>

Spencer Roserts,

Exuien M. Cui,

Lypia B. Paxson,

Henry M. Larne,

Aurrep H. Love,

ANNE BIDDLE,
CLOTHING COMMITTED.

All the female members of the Association, and such other women as shall
join with them in the work, constitute this Committee.
REPORT.

The Second Annual Report of this Association, presented in °
Fifth mo., 1866, revealed the necessity for directing our “ efforts
almost exclusively to the establishment and support of schools
among the Freed people.’’ Under this conviction, we have
devoted our funds during the past year mainly to the promotion
of this object.

We can continue to say that “we have been eminently suc-
cessful in securing the services of those teachers who, from a
sense of duty, have entered into the work,” and who are peculi-
arly fitted for its varied requirements.

In addition to the 9 schools, of which a detailed account was
given in our last report, we have been enabled, by the continued
liberality of Friends, to establish and support 8 more, making
17 now under care. The location and superintendence of which
are here presented :

SCHOOLS.
Mary K. Brosius, Vienna, Fairfax Co., Virginia.
Mary McBride, Fairfax Court House, — “ 6
Alice Sutton, Assistant to Mary McBride, ‘“
Martha Wright, Lewensville, © ” "
Sarah E. Lloyd, Woodlawn, . oy
Hannah Shortlidge, Big Falls, 7 4
Catharine Hall, Greenfield, a Ae “
Fanny E. Gause, Herndon Station, it «
Eliza E. Way, Falls Church, sid “6
Deborah K. Smith, Gum Spring, " é
Sarah A. Steer, Waterford, Loudon Co., ve

\ “cc 6c

Caroline Thomas, Leesburg,
a

Cornelia Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.
Mary Taylor, " "
Caroline Taylor,
‘Philena Heald, St. Helena, ig

Sarah M. Ely, ss _

In several of these schools the number of scholars increased
to such an extent that the teachers were advised to seek out,
from among their more advanced pupils, those who showed de-
cided qualifications for teaching, and to place them over the pri-
mary classes. Four of the schools have in this way been pro-
vided with assistant teachers, at a small compensation, with the
promise of an advance when they prove themselves equal to the
position. These assistants continue to receive instruction in the
higher branches taught. It is believed that in this way much
ability may be developed, and in the not far distant future this
people may aid greatly in the educational advancement of their
race. :

Each teacher forwards, once a month, to the Education Com-
mittee a statistical account of the number and advancement of
her scholars. These reports, in connection with frequent letters,
bring the different schools under the supervision of the Associa-
tion, and enable the members to co-operate understandingly with
the teachers. The accompanying reports were recently received :

“ce ee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘ Bg
3 ci
Tuirp Monts, 1867. ot Let ete 2 e o
2 3 @lt@isalS | aigo
oe tot Oo ec ee
Sigaijeal/ai/<4|eE | <i
Sarah E. Lloyd, . ‘ : 42 | 48 | 90 | 69 | 20 | 54 | 0 | 63
Francis E. Gause, . : y 22 | 16 | 38 | 38 | 33] 38] 0} 3l
Mary K. Brosius, . : . 18 | 21 | 39 | 21 | 10 | 32 | 0 | 33
Mary McBride, . sa ae 34 | 36 | 70 | 56 | 25 | 59 | 1 | 60
Eliza E, Way, d “ ’ 35 | 39 | 74 | 50 | 17 | 68 | 0 | 56
Catharine E. Hall, i oe 1988 1164381 1:30) 2051.80'1-8 120
Hannah Shortlidge, . ; 13 | 12 | 25 | 22 | 16 | 30] 0} 16
Sarah Ann Steer, . . i 20 1-26:1'63 | 29.1: -6 801 Or 28
Martha Wright, . : ‘ 32 | 30 | 62 | 50 | 40 | 51 | 0 | 39
Caroline Thomas, . : ‘ 30 | 26 | 56 | 41 | 36 | 48] 6 | 49
Deborah K. Smith, ; . 29 | 45 | 74 | 64 | 20 | 50] 3 | 27
298 '314 '612 '470 '243 [535 110 |422
 

 

 

ioe Jo a
wa t | o &D 2 =",
Tuirp Monrn, 1867. | el BS ee
| slaifis|/2/#2| ae:

— me —
Ziglialal<4/e | 3|a°
Cornelia Hancock, ane 22 | 13 | 35 | 35 | 35 | 35 | 0 | 35
Caroline Taylor, . . " 20 | 30 | 50 | 43 | 27 | 40} 7 | 50
aan, A. Taylor, ° . . 21 | 24 | 45 | 45 | 45 | 45] 0 | 45

ilena Heald

ea ee ily.’ . | 36} 52} 88] 75 | 84] 56| 2 | 32
Five South Carolina Schools, 99 119 |218 |225 j|191 |176 | 9 (162
Kleven Virginia i 298 /314 |612 |443 |243 [535 |1LO |422

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total, ; : ° 397 '433 '830 1668 (434 711 [19 (584
* Report of First month. ,
In addition to the above classified report, 255 have been re-
ported as studying Geography, a number are in Grammar, a few
in Philosophy, while some have advanced far enough to use
‘* Peterson's Familiar Science.’’ Teachers almost unanimously
report the conduct of the pupils as “‘ good.”
The following extracts from letters received during the
past year will enable our readers to estimate the effect of the
services of these self-sacrificing laborers :

From Caroline Thomas.—It has been suggested that one of my scholars
help me with the lower classes. I have selected a girl about fourteen,
who is intelligent and quick. When she first came to school she could
read tolerably well, but had no knowledge of figures; she is now writing
and reading numbers, up to tens of thousands, readily, and is studying
geography. When she first came to me, I heard from reliable authority
that she did not bear a good name, being both profane and immoral. I,
of course, felt some repulsion, but tried not to show it; and think I was
successful, as the sequel will show. Iwas led to observe her closely,
without exciting her suspicions, and I soon saw she had not been misrepre-
sented, except in this particular—the bad only had been noticed; I also
saw she was in possession of many good qualities, of which there had
been no notice taken. She is a child of strong affections, and it is
through these I lead her; for Iam prepared to say there is great ehange
in her for the better.

She said to me, one day, «* Miss Thomas, do you know what is good for
heart disease? I think I must have it, for my heart beats so, I can
hardly get my breath sometimes.” Now, thought I, is my time. I then
told her I had heard that to get in a passion, or to use tobacco, or drink any-
thing that would intoxicate, or bad habits of any kind, were injurious to
the health, and especially in cases of heart disease. I had never spoken
6

to her on the subject before—waiting for the right time when I would make
the right impression. I talked to her awhile ; she listened with all atten-
tion, and replied, «I will tell you the truth, Miss Thomas; I have a
very high temper, and when I get mad, I say and do many things I ought
not; I use snuff, too, but I wont do so any more ;” and she has not
broken her word, I think. She appears to desire my good opinion, and I
sincerely hope I may have no reason to changeit. She needs encouraging,
and I hope that wisdom may be given me, to do for her and for them
all that which will result in the greatest good. When I first told Alice
she could teach a class for me, she was delighted, and she succeeded very
well, and I told her so. I wish thee could have seen her face then ; she
looked as happy as any one could look.—Leesburg, Va., Tenth Month 29th,
1866. ’

From 8. M. Ely.—-We have a little boy living with us who is some-
what crippled in his limbs ; he is industrious, honest and kind. It would
have pleased thee to see his face when he first saw the shoemakers’ tools
sent to us; he said his father was a shoemaker, and had him to assist him.
His exclamation was, «Oh my! ifmy dad could have had these things, he
would have been too proud to walk.” Ido not think I ever saw more content
in a face than in his, as he sat mending a shoe for a little girl on Seventh-
day morning.—St. Helena, Eleventh Month 12th, 1866.

From Mary K, Brosius.—I feel sometimes as though I would like or
ought to be at home, but I cannot bear the idea of leaving these people.
I never spent two happier years in my life. I get almost discouraged
sometimes; but when I do, I look back and see where they were when I
came here. Eight of my best readers were then in their letters; two of
them are now in the second reader, and studying geography and arith-
metic. Tell thy little children that I have one dear little fellow with light
eyes and light curly hair, only five years old. He learned his letters in
five days; he has been to school fifteen days, and can spell off the book
in four letters.— Vienna, Va., Twelfth Month 1st, 1866. :

From Philena Heald —Qur school is flourishing, We still see the
anxiety to learn manifested, especially by those who are old enough to
appreciate fully the value of an education, It has both pleased and sur-
prised me that those who have so many cares persevere through all, and
come to school every day. One of them said, the other day, to me, «Why,
I think so much about my lessons I can’t sleep nights ; ’pears like I want
to come to school every minute. Oh, I do want so to learn! you must
tell me all my mistakes.”” Another, when success crowned his efforts to
master the second case in subtraction, looked the satisfaction he could not
express and said, « Please, mam, give me that same kind for two weeks |
straight along, so I may have him good and never forget him.” When
forming a geography class I told those who felt that they could study it
from these books, to advantage, to hold up their hands. Several raised
their hands, though some timidly; and when I gave out the books one
7

young man said, “ Miss Phillie, my hand didn’t go up, but my heart did.”
I had intended giving him a book, and also to use my own judgment in
giving to all, but wished to see how many had the ambition to try. The
young man who had such an earnest desire to study it, but felt a hesitancy
for fear he might not succeed, is one of my best students: he gets it un-
derstandingly, and is determined to rise.

We hope to hear from you more frequently. When letters and papers
do not come there is a great dearth in our island home. We hope you
will feel that we have done well, as our desire is to do the very best for
the people. As regards the conduct and progress of the pupils mentioned
in the report I am well satisfied, not because either is just as I would like
it, but that both exceed my hope and expectation. They do wonders, I
think, considering their past life.-—/St. Helena, S. C., Twelfth Month 1st,
1866.

From Cornelia Hancock.—TI feel very glad there is a prospect of be-
ing able to continue the schools commenced by your Association, for it
is decidedly the best way to improve the condition of the Freed people. The
children are becoming good scholars; they are getting along so as
to be able to make a practical use of their learning. Ignorance is
all the Freedmen are suffering from in this section. ‘There is law and
justice sufficient at their command, but as they are now they are cheated
in every store and in all bargains, and do not know what their rights are,
or where to go to have their wrongs adjusted. Their condition, though, is
vastly better than one year ago. The planters near here, both northern
and rebels, have offered to the school all the wood required for our use.
We have told the colored people of the offer; they were rather dilatory
in getting the wood, arguing that the rebels must have some sinister
motives in offering it,—that they wanted their land cleared, &. To-day
the wood gave out. I told the children there would be no school to-day,
nor until the wood was attended to. Looking disconsolate, they turned
their faces homeward and reported this: the result was that there is
plenty of wood on the premises to last for weeks to come. All the child-
ren who had no fathers to haul wood for them betook themselves to the
woods, and brought bundles on their heads ; I think there was half a cord
carried in this way to-day alone. The greatest punishment that can be
inflicted is the idea of having the school closed — Mt. Pleasant, Twelfth mo,
12th, 1866.

From Sarah M. Ely.—The two boxes, 91 and 92, and two barrels, 93 and
94, came safely and in excellent condition. It would be useless for me to try
to tell how our hearts and those of your sable friends thank you, and how
often blessings will go up to our Heavenly Father from those who, until
Northern kindness greeted them, knew not that such a thing as kindness
existed, They often say, “Me thank you,” and “me thank God for
this. May His blessing rest on the North,” and my heart responds
Amen.—St. Helena, First Month 28th, 1867,
8

Prom Frances H. Gause.—I have one pupil who will make a good
teacher; she will be able to be an assistant in a few months. I asked her
if she would like to teach; she seemed very much pleased with the idea.
She is sixteen years of age, very ladylike in her appearance and deport-
ment, and particularly good in reading and spelling. She has only been
coming since Christmas, and has some three miles to walk. Several men
have been coming through the winter, who will go to work as soon as the
weather is favorable. I feel sorry, far they are good students.— Herndon,
Fairfax County, Va., Third Month \st, 1867.

From the same.—Many of my scholars who are obliged to leave
school seem very anxious to keep their books, so that they can pur-
sue their studies during the evenings. They say I can have the books
whenever I want them: One of my pupils wanted to buy her books, but
I told her I had no authority to sell them. Will thee be kind enough to
give me some directions about them ?—-Herndon P. O., Fairfax County,
Va., Third Month 29th, 1867.

From Mary McBride.—The girls now will not go out to service
unless the employers agree to give them lessons daily. I know of. one
girl who could not be urged to live with the lady that wanted her until
writings were drawn to that effect.

Our Sabbath School has been discontinued on account of the weather, ©
but we expect to begin soon again.

The pupils seem backward in arithmetic, the first class working only in
compound addition. They could barely make figures when they began
last summer ; perhaps I am anticipating too much from them. Long divi-
sion seemed to puzzle the girls; it was a great while before I could make
them understand, and some days I have returned from school feeling
discouraged; but when I think how many disadvantages our school has
labored under I know we do very well.—Fairfax C. H., Va., Third mo.
28th, 1867.

From Hannah Shortlidge —My school, though small, still continues
very pleasant. Allshow rapid improvement in their studies. I have
several scholars, who have not been coming more than three months, that
can write very good letters and read others which they receive.

I have had to bid adieu to several of my little flock since I last wrote.
They have all good situations, and I think will do well. Although I
felt very sorry to have them leave school, I could not but encourage
them to seek employment. I feel assured that they will not neglect their
books, even if they cannot attend school. Before leaving they brought
their copy-books, to have me set copies through them, that they might
‘still continue their writing.— Springvale, Third Month 9th, 1867.

From Eliza E. Way.—I beiieve when I wrote last I thought I could
report 90 pupils this month, but my school has diminished instead of in.
creased. It as been quite small, as thou,wilt see by the report, It has
9

been so very stormy this month I have had much difficulty in getting to
school, a greater part of the road being very bad.

One morning I started, but could only get about halfway. There I
stopped at a colored man’s house, and had school: several of the children
had gone that far, and were not willing to go home again without “ saying
a lesson.” JI have needed no assistance this month, and if I do nezt, I
will let one of the girls take charge of some of the classes, if she does not
leave school to go to work.— Falls Church, Third Month 30th, 1867.

From Caroline Thomas —This is a very beautiful day, the second of
the kind this spring, and I fully appreciate such a favor after having
passed through a season of storm. Iam sitting in my little room
with the front door open, and the beautiful sunbeams come streaming in,
making all things look cheerful and bright, and the air is vocal with the
song of blackbirds.

Capt. Smith and I have been getting up a Society. It is called the
Leesburg Freedmen’s Educational Society; it is for the general improve-
ment of their race and condition, and is governed by a Constitution and
By-Laws. We have now forty-one members, Every one pays twenty-five
cents when he or she is initiated, and twenty five cents each month. One
object in getting up this Society is to teach them how to elect officers and
how to vote. The Society is presided over by a President; we also have
a Vice-President, a Treasurer, a Board of Managers, and I act as Secre-
tary. We meet on the first Second-day inevery month. The money which
is paid goes to defray the expenses incurred in school and meeting, to fur-
nish wood, lights, or seats, desks, etc.

I expect to close my night school shortly ; then I shall meet the people
one evening in the week, to read to them; therefore I hope if any of you
meet with anything you think would be good for me to read to them that
you will send it tome. Ireceived several numbers of the «« Standard,”
but they have stopped coming. The article, « Chicago,” in the March
number of the Atlantic Monthly, I like very much, and I intend to read
it to them,—not all at once: I want them to give some portion of the even-
ing to conversation. I think it will be good for them to meet thus socially.
What dost thou or the members of the Association think of it? Criticise
it and give me your opinion. I want to do great things for these people,
and I hope I may be directed in the right way.—Leesburg, Va., Third
Month 31st, 1867.

From Sarah Ann Steer.—I enclose my school report for Third mo,
Owing to the inclement weather and bad roads, the average attendance
was smaller than the month before. I will not be able to report as full a
school during the spring and summer as I have had, all my large boys
having already left to go to work. I am sorry to part with them, as some
of them were my best scholars, and all were getting along very well,—
Waterford, Fourth Month 4th, 1867.

‘From Hannah Shortlidge —]I visited C. E. Hall’s school last Seventh-
10

day. There were twenty-three scholars present. I was quite surprised
to find them dressed so clean and well; but was very much amused when >
I learned that they were looking for me, and were dressed for the occasion,

My school continues pleasant, and, with one or two exceptions, we are
improving very rapidly. I think I shall have a very pleasant school
this summer. There will be some changes, as my largest pupils will
leave ; but I am in hopes that I may still be able to have as large a school
as I have now.—Springvale, Fourth Month 1st, 1867.

Prom Mary McBride.—I am quite proud of my pupils. A number
of them take particular pride in dressing neatly and nicely, and looking
like ladies, two of them especially, in the first class. They are good,
faithful girls, in whom I have every confidence, and I think in the future
they will be able to take entire charge of the school, They are good spell-
ers andj readers, write well, and talk grammatically. A number of the
young ladies at the boarding school here do not read or write as well as
four of the girls in my first class,—Fairfax Court House.

From Catharine H. Hall.—My school is doing, I think, quite as well
as the Association could wish, I am much pleased with the rapid pro-
gress of my pupils, in all their studies, as well as the interest they take in
their school duties.— Greenfield, Va.

From Mary A. Taylor.—My little ones are getting along so nicely I
think I shall not style my school the primary department much longer. I
shall soon have been with them a year (less our long vacation), and in that
time twelve have advanced from the alphabet to the second reader; a
number are reading in the first, and I have a nice class in definitions.
They also promise to be good spellers—many of them will spell long
words without the book. It is amusing to see how they will copy every-—
thing put upon the blackboard. Two little boys cried the other day when
school was over, because they wanted to stay and make writing and sums.
—Mt. Pleasant.

As frequent messages of gratitude and kind remembrance had
been received from the colored people, the following response, in
the form of a circular letter, was addressed to them in the
Twelfth month, and 2,000 copies of it were subsequently
printed for distribution among them :—

CIRCULAR LETTER.

To tHe Freep PreorLe UNDER ovuR Care.

Philadelphia First Month, 1867.

Dear Frienps:—In love we now address you, although we have never
looked upon your faces, and may never meet you’ in this world, yet we
believe you are not strangers to our interest in your welfare. We sor-
ll

rowed with you under the grievous burden of slavery, and when the gall-
ing chain of the oppressor was broken, we rejoiced that the hour of your
deliverance was at hand. We are with you in sympathy amid your many —
persecutions, and honor you, “that when reviled, you revile not again :”
your patience and meekness have taught us and strengthened us. We
trust that the dawn of freedom will be followed by a day of greater
knowledge, liberty and happiness than you have yet known.

We know that you still suffer from the ignorance and prejudice which
surround you; we want to encourage you not to faint nor lose heart, but
to continue to do the best you can, trusting that God, who is all-powerful,
and who has hitherto been your hope and comfort, will still be your sup-
port, and make way for you where there often appears no way. Let your
prayers still ascend to this most gracious Father, and strive to render
yourselves each day more worthy of His divine blessing.

We have sent our dearly-beloved and faithful teachers among you, to
aid you in the education of yourselves and your children, and, by their
good example and advice, to be your helpers. The valuable books we.
have sent, we hope, are instructive messengers; but we want you not to
forget to love the sky, the trees, the flowers, all of nature’s gifts, for they
are a great open book, easily read, and tell of a good and great Creator,
your Father and our Father. We earnestly desire to see you comfortable,
and fitted for the duties and enjoyments of life, and hope you will do all
in your power to profit by the instruction of your teachers. They have
left pleasant homes, and the society of their nearest and best friends, to
go among you, to lift the veil of ignorance from your minds, and open the
door of knowledge to your understandings. Do all that you can to make
their labors easy and agreeable; carry bright faces; ‘wear the smile of
good humor, it attracts; give the « good magning,:’ it costs nothing, and
may make some heart glad.

Gather your families around you; make pleasant homes for yourselves
and your children; be clean and tidy in your persons and your houses,
for «cleanliness”’ (we are told) «is next to godliness,” and will give you the
respect of all.

Endeavor to save some portion of your weekly earnings, if it be only a
trifle, that in time you may be the possessors of homes of your own.
Avoid every temptation that besets you in the journey of life. Take the
blessed Jesus for your example: He was tempted, yet He yielded not.
In the strength that gave Him the victory, you may trust; for it has
never failed to help the weakest of His followers.

We warn you against the baneful influence of the intoxicating cup.
Touch not, taste not; for, if you suffer yourselves to be enslaved by so
dangerous an enemy, there will soon be an end to all comfort and happi-
ness. If any among you are living as husband and wife, without having
had your marriage properly legalized, we beseech you, as Christian men
and women, not to neglect this sacred obligation, but, for your own and
12

your children’s sake, suffer not a day to pass until you are lawfully mar-
ried. You can never attain that station in religious and civil society
which you should occupy, if you are regardless of the holy ordinance of
matrimony. We solemnly urge it upon you, as a religious duty, to
strengthen the bonds between husband and wife; for they are truly
sacred, and our lives of liberty know nothing of loosening these ties of
the family. r

We exhort you, dear Freed people, to be good citizens and kind neigh-
bors; avoid broils and contentions. Be just in your dealings, and
honest toward all men. Be truthful yourselves, and require the same
from your children: see that they are not absent from school, unless there
is sickness or absolute necessity. Be careful to send them clean and as
well clothed as you can, and see to it that their conduct towards their
teachers is good. Be firm and decided in your government; use kind-
ness and gentleness instead of the lash and the voice of angry reproof ;
be assured that all harshness and severity belong to the barbarities of
slavery, and should be forever excluded from your hearts and your homes.
Be good examples to your children, so that, when you are separated from
them, ‘they may rise up and call you blessed.”

We expect much good to result from the establishment of our schools
among you. We are sure that you are thankful to our Heavenly Father
for putting it into our hearts to help you in this way; but we want you
to look forward to the time, which we hope is not far distant, when you can
sustain them by your own exertions. One of the greatest blessings that
freedom gives to a man, is the right to support his family and educate
his children by his own earnings. We believe that you, who are fathers,
desire to do this, and we encourage you in all your efforts.

We want you to feel your pwn worth: every one who breathes, moves,
thinks or acts, has an influence, You are all precious in the sight of our
Heavenly Father, and can do very much for each other and for us. Do
not despond at the life-struggles ; accept them as tests of your strength ;
if you overcome them, you will rejoice: God will not put more upon you
than you can bear. And now to the dear childrén we write, that you be
kind and loving one to another, slow to be angry and quick to forgive.
Be obedient to your parents and teachers; speak the truth on all occa-
sions, and on no account take what is not your own.

We send to you all an affectionate greeting. That our Father in
heaven may have you allin His holy keeping, and that His spirit may so —
prevail in your hearts that you may be kept from all wrong-doing, and
find comfort and peace in His presence, is the earnest desire of your sin-

- cere friends,

The letter was warmly received in all the settlements —
13

Saran A. Steer, Waterford, Va., writes :—

The Freedmen were highly pleased with the “circular letter.’* One
old woman remarked, « She knew the people of the North were blessed
good people.” The clothing sent has been distributed among thirteen
families. One family was entirely destitute. I visited them in their
home, which was a miserable hut, and seemed to be destitute of all the
comforts of life; the children, five in number, were almost naked, a few
old rags being ali they had on them. I never beheld such poverty before,
and I gave them each a new suit of clothes, for which they were very
grateful indeed. They are coming to school now, since they have suffi-
cient clothing to cover them,

Frances A. Gausz, Herndon Station, Va., says :—

The Circular letter was received with real gratitude—many of them
shedding tears while I read it—all sending love to the kind friends who
are doing so much for them. I appointed the next First-day afternoon,
after I received it, to read it to them. My school-room would not hold
half who came to hear it, and I opened the door, so that those outside
might hear. But this did not satisfy them, and they requested me to dis-
miss those inside, and let those outside come in and read it again. I did
so, and even then some of the old women smuggled themselves in the
second time, to hear “the beautiful words’? once more. I have read it a
good many times since to some who cannot come to my home to hear it.
The box of clothing is doing much good. I find a place for everything
sent.

From Cornetta Hancocx.—We received the Circular letter sent by
thee, and read it to them in their church, and one of its greatest recom-
mendations is that the people seem to understand it. Thatis the great
trouble with the people of the far south,—it is so difficult to make them
fully understand what you say or read to them.

Saran E. Luoyp:—Tpe circular letter arrived last Fifth-day, and on
First-day afternoon about seventy-five people assembled at the meeting-
house to hear it read. At their request, it was read to them the second
time, and they all seemed very much pleased to hear that each of them
should have a printed copy. There are about fifty families to whom I
could give copies, and I think there is some one in each family who could ‘
read it. \ *

I now have forty six pupils—enough to keep me busy—although some
of them live so far from here, that they can come only in pleasant
weather. The specimens of writing are from my first class, but none of
them have been able to write in books since vacation, on account of our
having no desks. I am often surprised to find how little the children
forget while away from school, After vacation, nearly ry one was
ready to commence where he left off in the summer.
a 14

Similar acknowledgments came from all our teachers.

The Christmas season being universally accepted among these
people as a time for festivity, the teachers participated in the
general joyfulness, and were enabled materially to increase it by
the distribution of gifts from benevolent friends at the North, as
the annexed extracts will show :—

Response TO A Box sent By Two LirTLe CHILDREN, AGED RESPECTIVELY
Five anp SEVEN.

St. Helena, Twelfth Month 24, 1866.

My dear young Friends :—A happy Christmas to you all, and blessings

on you for the kind, benevolent feeling that put it into your hearts to send

‘ greeting to our flock of sable ones here at St. Helena, and to gladden the
spirits of these by your very pretty and useful gifts, Would that you

could have seen the bright faces of our band of pupils to-day, as we gave

them your Christmas presents ; their eyes sparkled, and their little hearts

beat quick with a new joy. Ah! there are indeed true emotions under-

neath the dark skin; there is a world of real feeling within these shat-

tered caskets, many of them all scarred and seared, and variously dis-

figured; and deep down in their souls there is an innate love for truth

and right, for beauty and harmony, and an ever-controlling love and

reverence for Jesus, even though their young lives were blighted under

the cruel and unhallowed dispensation of slavery; yet, up through all

the darkness and mists, the inhumanity and degradation, spring the

flowers of sympathy, and love and tenderness, of justice and mercy.

Their hearts are easily touched; soon the dew of feeling may be dis-
covered in the eye, and the iip may be seen to quiver, when an appeal is
made to their higher natures, showing that they are not void of con-
science, or lacking in the elements that combine to make true men and
women—as their enemies would fain have us believe. Please accept
their hearty thanks for your contribution. Théy are each and all most
acceptable, and we want each one who added to the store, however small
the gift, to feel in his or her heart that these little ones, who have so long
been sufferers, send you their warm and earnest thanks, and with them a.
«God bless you,” for each one of you. May He keep you ever near
_ Him, and always incline your hearts, as now, to remember the poor and
the friendless. Oh, I wish you could have seen an old woman, (Aunt
Charlotte,) one of the poorest of the poor, receive one of the nice warm
dresses that came in that noble box to us from Philadelphia, packed and
forwarded by a good, kind friend to the destitute, whose name may be
familiar to you; she was too happy to tell half her joy. « Oh!” she said,
«« May the good Jesus bress you; hopes he may allus be good to you, and
never forget you; me can’t tell how tankful I is for dis.” Her face told
15

the story better than her lips possibly could. You cannot begin to know
what a treat your nice candy was to them; some of them most likely had
never known the taste before. Indeed, all you sent was a rich offering
to them. We know you have had peaceful slumbers and happy hearts,
as rewards for the good deed, and our Heavenly Father will bless you.
Farewell. Lovingly, your friend, By eae

From Corne.ia Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.:—

We were enabled by the generosity of a friend to bring Christmas to
about two hundred little children. We had a large tree, reaching from
floor to ceiling, loaded with gifts of every description. The children all
assembled in one room around the tree, and sang several pretty pieces,
after which the work of distributing commenced, which to us was work,
and to them was joy unspeakable.

From Mary McBrips, at Vienna :—

One of the colored men supplied me with a tree, which I trimmed
with toys, &c. I added another pound of candy, made forty or fifty
little bags, and filled them; I also had three cakes given me. The ©
children were all invited to be present in the school-room at half-past
eleven o’clock on Christmas day, and they each had a piece of cake and a
bag of candy handed them from a waiter, also some taken from the tree.
They sang a Christmas carol, I made a short speech, and altogether we
had quite a happy time.”

From Saran A. STEER :—

In returning thanks on behalf of my colored people for these
acceptable and timely gifts, I cannot help wishing that those who sent
them could have the pleasure of distributing them, and receiving in per-
son the thanks of the grateful recipients.

The books, toys, &c., I shall give them on Christmas eve. There will
be no happier children in all Philadelphia than my little curly heads
when I give their presents to them. They can imagine the exclamations
of delight I shall hear, for these little boys and girls have never owned,
and few of them have ever seen, such treasures. The Circular Letter was
received by the Freedmen with real pleasure. I have been requested to
read it again and again by those who did not meet at the time I appointed

‘to read it, and all expressed to me their love to the kind friends who are
doing so much for them.

Waterford, Va.

From Frances E. GAUSE :—

Thy favors of the 4th and 2ist inst. have been received; also
the bale of clothing and barrel. I send thee the list of contents. Accept
my thanks for the papers.
16

I arranged the Christmas gifts for the children on a Christmas tree.
They assembled at my boarding-house in the morning, and I made the
presentations. The Christmas tree was a great curiosity to the children,
and when they beheld their beautiful presents hanging upon the branches,
their sable faces fairly shone with delight.

It gives me joy to act as your agent in the good work, and to see the
hearts of the oppressed race made glad by the kindness shown by their
friends in the North.

I asked them, «Who put it into the hearts of these good people to send
them so many nice gifts?” They answered, « God.”

There were two children that came after their Christmas gifts very
poorly clad; I dressed them in a new suit of clothes, and they went their
way rejoicing. I have heard of several families that are in a very desti-
tute condition, that live some two or three miles distant; I have sent them
word I have clothing for them.

It is impossible for me to get around among them, as the roads are very
bad. My men are working at the school-house this week. They expect
to have it ready for me by next Second-day.

Iam heartily weary of my long vacation, Expect I will have a very
large school, this winter.

Herndon, Fairfax County, Va.

From Martua Wriaut, at Lewensville, Va. :—

I have two pupils whom I think would make good teachers in a few
months. I think it would have done your hearts good, could you have
seen the radiant faces of my pupils when they stepped forward and took
from my hands the proffered Christmas presents. Many thanks for the
clothing.

The opportunities for profitable industry which have grown
out of the more peaceable and settled condition of the Southern
communities have been so productive of thrift and comparative
comfort among the Freedmen as to call for much less assistance
in the way of food and clothing than in the trying years imme- —
diately following the war. We have found the part-worn gar-
ments donated by our friends, both in the city and in the coun-
try, to be sufficient, with the goods on hand from last year, to
meet the demands upon us in this direction.

We have, however, felt it right to respond to the appeals from
our teachers for suitable garden seeds, to enable the Freedmen to
cultivate the plots of ground at their disposal to advantage. In
this we have been aided by donations from Friends; a liberal
donation of 2100 packages of assorted seeds, well adapted for
17

small patches of ground, from the community known as the
United Brethren, at New Lebanon, N. Y., was also sent to the
several teachers in good season for planting their gardens.
Feeling that the knowledge imparted in our schools can only
be useful to the Freed people as they have suitable books and
other reading matter, which must necessarily be very difficult to
procure in the sparsely settled districts recently devasted by
war, we have from time to time forwarded suitable newspapers and
periodicals, and have recently appropriated $100 to the purchase
of books, which are already deposited as circulating libraries in
most of our schools, to be loaned to the scholars until vacation,
when they are to be donated or sold to them, as may be judged
best by the teachers. In aid of this useful design we solj-
cit special contributions of books, periodicals or money, which
will be appropriated so as best to promote the improvement and
elevation of those who have so recently been ushered for the first
time into the rich enjoyments of knowledge, as communicated
by means of books. ;

In the Second month, Louise de Mortie, Superintendent of a
“Home for Orphans, irrespective of race or color,” near New
Orleans, La., visited this city, and was present at one of our
meetings. Her mission was to interest the friends of the Freed-
men in this institution, in order to secure a donation of ten °
thousand dollars, which a French gentleman had guaranteed,
provided twenty thousand more could be raised by the first of
the Third month. She appealed to us to aid in the collection of
this fund, and gave an interesting account of the origin and
growth of the Orphanage, so ably portraying the advantages of
such an institution in the city of New Orleans that we were well
satisfied with its claims, and of her ability to conduct it. An
appropriation of two hundred and fifty dollars was made to the
Orphanage, and we have since heard that the sum required was
collected by the specified time.

The committee appointed in relation to the exclusion of the.
colored people from the horse-cars in this city has been released,
the necessity for its continuance having been removed by a re-
cent act of the Pennsylvania Legislature, which provides that:
they shall be entitled to the use of all our public conveyances.
18

The Education Committee, feeling satisfied that a personal

inspection of the schools in Virginia would be of advantage to

the teachers and pupils, and give an amount of information
which is impossible to be gained by letters, reeommended that a
committee be appointed to visit all the schools under the care of
this Association, and hold meetings with the people as far as
practicable.

Upon their return this Committee made the following report :—

To perform the mission entrusted to us by the Association, we left
Philadelphia Sixth-day night, the 12th of Fourth month, and proceeded
directly to Alexandria, thence to Leesburg, Va., by the Alexandria, Loudon
and Hampshire Railroad to Belmont, about thirty miles, and from there by
stage, six miles.

*Arriving at Leesburg about two, P. M., on Seventh-day, we visited the
school under the care of Caroline Thomas. It is in a comfortable frame
building, a few squares from her lodgings. We found her engaged in
teaching, therefore had a good opportunity of judging the capability of
her pupils. We were well satisfied, with their advancement. Some of
the parents were present, who expressed much gratitude for this privilege
for themselves and children, The teacher is earnest and zealous im
her work, both in the school-room and among the colored people gener-
ally. During the winter she has held school several evenings in the week
for adults, and assisted in organizing and supporting a literary associa-
tion which has given opportunity for instructive reading and appropriate
counsel. She believes this form of labor among these people is one of
the most important aids in the work of elevation.

A Friend, who came from Waterford—six miles—in his carriage, took
us to his house, where we were kindly entertained—C. Thomas_accom-
panied us. The next morning, First-day, visited a few families. Among,
them was the mother of Ann E, Gould, a woman about forty years of
age, whom S. Steer had been preparing fora teacher. Before our arrivab
she was attacked with an inflammatory and dropsical disease in the throat,
from which she did not recover, We received an interesting report of
her character and influence in the school, and also of the closing moments
of her life. She passed away with the clear evidenee of peace, leaving,
affectionate and grateful messages to those who had given her the oppor-
tunity to possess the privileges of the school-room. She also expressed
the hope that all her people would evince an appreciation of them im
their daily life.

Perhaps it will not be out of place here to relate that we attended
Friends’ Meeting in the house with which many interesting incidents
are connected relative to the late war.

Although it is more than one hundred years since the meeting wa
19

established, not once have Friends been known to fail in gathering on the

appointed occasions. During the war the house was used by a portion of. -

the Rebel army, and on meeting days the soldiers not only prepared for-
the reception of Friends, but many frequently sat with them. Some of

the pickets became so much interested in the Gospel teachings of our dear

friend, Miriam Gover, that they requested not to be sent on duty until the

Quakers closed their meeting.

In this house, by appointment, we met, on First-day afternoon, Sarah
Steer’s pupils, and their parents, as her school-room could not accommo-
date them, We were gratified with their recitations—believe the teacher
to be earnestly devoted to her work, and entirely competent to perform its
requirements. A new building is in process of erection by the colored
people, which will be used for religious and educational purposes.

The following morning we returned to Leesburg; stopped about half
an hour at the school, then took stage to Belmont, six miles, and from
thence, by railroad, about twenty-four miles, to Vienna, where we saw
Mary K. Brosius at the residence of Capt. Hine. Her school was not in
session, on account of the house being needed for other purposes. Mate-
rial for a new building was ready, awaiting the leisure of the colored peo-
ple for its erection, but continued claims upon their time had interrupted
the work. They hoped to complete it in a few weeks, and, in the mean-
time, we advised M. K. Brosius to open a school a few miles distant, where
a house was ready and a teacher needed. This she consented to do.

Capt. Hine took us in the afternoon to visit Mary McBride’s school,
near Fairfax Court House, about six miles distant from Vienna. Her
schuol-house is comfortable, and filled with industrious, appreciative
scholars. We heard satisfactory recitations. She appears much in-
terested in her work.

Returned to Vienna, and in the evening, by appointment, a large com-
pany of colored people collected in a house occupied by soldiers in one of
the fortifications during the war—and now used for a school for white
pupils. Capt. Hine read our introduction from the Association, and ex-
plained the object of our appointment, and requested their aid by respect-
ful attention to what they should hear, and prompt replies to required
information. This was satisfactorily realized ; and, after much expression
from the people and ourselves in relation to their past condition and
future responsibilities, vocal thanksgiving and supplication arose from two
fervent hearts. Then all united in hymns of praise.

It was an interesting and instructing occasion. We were informed that
several of Moseby’s men were present and participated in the closing
service.

The next morning, Third-day, Capt. Hine took us about six miles, to
Catharine E. Hall’s school, where we also saw Hannah Shortlidge. Inter.
views with both satisfactory. The school under the care of the latter,
about five miles distant, is smal], with no prospect of an increase. We
20

spent most of the day in Catharine’s school, which is held in the upper
room of a building in the yard attached to her home. Found the pupils
‘much interested. One man pays nine dollars a month to another to do his
. work, that he may come to school. A woman washes for sixteen persons,
and performs other household duties, but is seldom absent, although she
walks several miles. She spoke with much gratitude of her present privi-
leges. Several of her grandchildren are pupils in the school.

Failing in a conveyance, we were. prevented from visiting Martha
Wright’s school, but through the kindness of I. Green, with whom Catha-
rine E. Hall boards, were conveyed in the afternoon six miles to Fall’s
Church, where we saw Eliza E. Way. Her school was not in session, on
account of the house needing repairs. She reported good attendance and
much interest in education. Believes the continuation of the school im-
portant.

Fourth-day morning, proceeded by railroad to Herndon. Not succeed-
img in finding a conveyance, walked about three miles to Frances E.
Gause’s school; we found it in session, in a comfortable log house which
the colored people have lately erected, a short distance from the place
where the one stood which was burnt by some of the opposing neighbors.
The school is in a very satisfactory condition, and the teacher much
interested in her work. Visited some of the people in their homes, and
were gratified to sce evidences of thrift and industry. They rent and
cultivate the land.

One man, who seems to be influential among the people in the neighbor-
hood, has about 200 acres. All his buildings are good, and the whole
appearance of the farm indicates capability and energy.

In the evening the school-house was filled with colored people, who were
invited to meet us, and we conversed freely with them upon their varied
duties and responsibilities. Many expressed gratitude for the interest and
aid received from the Association. One of us read a portion of Scripture,
and hymns were sung by the people.

Fifth-day morning, returned to Herndon, and from there, by railroad,
to Alexandria. Spent a portion of the next day in visiting the schools in
that place, accompanied by Col. Lee, of the Freedmen’s Bureau, in all of
which we saw satisfactory evidence of the capability of the colored child
to receive and appreciate the education appropriate to its age. Many
astonished us with their recitations.

Some of the school-houses are in the shadow of the old Slave Pen, now
a decaying monument of past iniquity; but we may rejoicingly believe
that in these educational institutions memorials of present benevolence
are forming, to carry cheering and imperishable records into the Future.

In the afternoon, by the kindness of a Friend from Woodlawn, we were
conveyed to that place, and, on the way, stopped to visit Deborah K.
Smith’s school, about five miles from Alexandria. The house is situated
directly on the roadside, more than a mile from the teacher’s lodgings,
i 21

and the most uncomfortable that we had seen. The teacher and scholars
have suffered with the cold, owing to the open condition of the house ; yet
neither murmured ; they looked happy and much interested in their respec-
tive occupations. Heard all the classes, and were well satisfied with their
progress. —

Seventh-day, visited some of the people in their homes at Woodlawn.
The next morning returned to spend half an hour in D. K. Smith’s First-
day school. From there to Woodlawn meeting, and spent the afternoon
with the colored people gathered in Sarah Lloyd’s school-house, which is a
comfortable building, about a mile from her boarding place. Heard the
recitations of several classes in reading, spelling and arithmetic; but the
afternoon was chiefly devoted to Scriptural reading and religious instruc-
tion, given by several volunteer assistants. Addresses were delivered from
strangers present, and cordial expressions of gratitude from the colored
people for the advantages they were experiencing through our Association.
We felt it to be an exceedingly interesting and impressive occasion, and
a fitting close to our mission,

We may, perhaps, be allowed to add that we were much gratified with
the marked improvement in the condition of the Freed people in Wash-
ington, attributable not only to the efficiency of the Bureau, but also to
the judgment and energy of benevolent associations and individuals.
Among the most important and effective aids in producing this encourag-
ing change was acknowledged to be the labors of Eliza Heacock, in her
departments of industrial and domestic instruction.

We saw about fifty children employed in plaiting straw braid, which is
made at the same place into hats,

The beneficial effects of the mission established by New England Friends
have radiated to all surrounding localities. They have classified depart-
ments for education in one building, and a store in another, where goods of
every description are sold at cost price.

In reviewing the condition of our schools, and their influence upon the
neighborhoods where they are located, we feel justified in urging the Asso-
ciation to continue its support, not only by establishing schools, but by
furnishing each teacher with a good supply of clothing, in order that the
aged and sick may be cared for, and no child prevented from attending
school on account of not having comfortable garments. Everywhere we
saw evidences of the liberality of our friends, in the clothing worn by the
people. We wondered what they would have done without it.

We look upon those under our care as children just beginning to walk,
who need aid until they shall learn to step unassisted, and then the exter-
nal means of support should be judiciously removed. And while we offer
this view we hope also that the Association will be furnished with pecu-
aiary ability to extend its field of labor.

Before closing this report we desire to state that we were greatly aided

Q*
22

in the performance of our work through the kindness and attention re-
_ceived from individuals whose unreserved hospitality will be gratefully
remembered.
Henry M. Laine,
Epita W. ATLEE.
Fifth month 1st, 1867.

Were we able to impart a just appreciation of the importance
and magnitude of the work which the Society of Friends is
called upon to perform in making the future for these Freed
people, we believe that every one thus associated in religious
fellowship would rejoicingly offer a tribute to assist in its ac-
complishment.

Willingly and nobly have our teachers sacrificed personal
comfort in performing their labor of love, and still give no evi-
dence of faltering, as each one has requested to be returned to
the service after the summer vacation.

Then shall we who remain in our comfortable homes refuse to
aid them by personal sympathy and assistance? What may be
deemed useless to us may benefit them, and we suggest that each
family appropriate a large box or barrel for the reception of
cast-away goods of every description, to be forwarded for their
distribution.

By reference to our Treasurer’s report, it will be seen that
after the payment of the salaries of all the teachers for the term
engaged, unless liberal contributions are received we will be
obliged to lessen the number of our schools.

Let each individual ascertain the amount of obligation by
measuring duty with possessions, and act in accordance with the
result ; then the Association will be enabled to move onward in
its work.

By direction of the Association.

Jacop M. Exuts,
ANNIE CooPER,
Oth month 15th, 1867. Secretaries,
93

Report of H. M. Laine, Treasurer.

 

1866. DR.

D MRO. Ae Pe ROS OI AID Sool e el  escapeameoeyec tne $1880 61
Appropriation for Teachers, Last! Yarrow weioseecehia wes kee 2500. 00
Cash contributions SOM CAVE 2 gs) ~sensvinbhonbopen sites .» 3820 25

‘© Country Meetings.........sse00+ 1775 78
66 FS PRL VIAO Shy nvovene outed Wis aieble 1292 74
Wh AO UNE RIROOROEE, S420 4, ediases aconseusuumenrgmmnlesiet baud bts 127 93
$11397 31
CR.
By Cash paid Teachers’ Salaries..............000+ $6009 36
+6 PRP ile ccicuavesetorsoie 138 46
th ** for Books, Slates, &e...... ss... 815 88
a ‘for Blankets and Shoes.......... 73 80
ff MAHON PII Bios cihss cacvsespete de 21 31
At ‘* for Seeds and Sanitary Stores... i 43 71
ef ‘¢ for Printing Annual Report and
CITGO ATs uhhh es cent y,seesaussetun 114 30
‘* for Freights, and other expenses ...... 142 60
FU Chester School, Ss Oise... sc/'sebesdanee 50 00
** to Sandy Spring School, Md...... ..... 250 00
** 40) Waterford School, Va...........0sés 50 00
** to Howard School, Washington, D.C. 50 00
/§* to New Orleans Orphan sey AME Lou-
isa De Morti2, Supt... os heaeaias uaeO Os 2
*¢ to Colored Teachers, Florida. vane pmneeee 90 00
‘* to National Relief Assoc’n, Washing-
BOUT I ode ptaip:iinldadie be so gnallp s weak ve 200 00
‘¢ to Susan H. Clark, Fortress Monroe,
cst’ SP puMegeitbsbhEvay ispsspccueibal’ 20 00
* to Committee on exclusion of colored
persons from Cars......... sessessceeees 50 00 8374 42

 

1867.
ONO 1) i BRR ii aie ANY ib Visei tab osi Vebdy Seuseaceuhincuceuledenh venences BOBS BO

Which will be required for the support of the Schools for the present term.
Hewry M. Laine,
Treasurer.

Philadelphia, 5th mo. 1st, 1867.

We have examined the foregoing account and find it correct.
Jos. M. Truman, JR., Audit
Asrauwam W. Harngs, § 7 "°"°"*
TREASURER’S REPORT OF CASH CONTRIBUTIONS.

 

From Philadelphia.............. $3820 25/Sarah W. Doughton, Lum-
PRA MOT i sis soice ceucuehines 25:00), bertons) N. diesecsdacseud arcs cs
Abingdon......... ooehthibiaics 50 25/Willie M. RSPR Berea,
HOTRH SM vpiesscss wanes 50100) i: OBI Ou iicubbiparinn pias seca an
DY DCLUY. sens oun dane vse 62 50. Lydia A. Smith, "Newtown, Pa
WAPminstore ss... ccs ak he 17 00 Caroline M. Reeves, Rich-
PLOVIGONOGs a. accaccsideaes 36 25) TRONGH ING eh ss eee sevice ace
INOTTISTO WN 65.5 :. caseesanes 13 00M. M. Lewis, Huntsville, Ind.
Wrightstown............. 68 60 Estate of Jos. D. Thurston,
BEAMONGIG, « cieseuisvesunuecas 51 00| Philadelphia ........ ......0066
Beistots sisi suena lelve 44°25/A Friend, Cecil, Md..... eenel
Falis. cicccc i. tiasecctsdecs 18 00|Adam Anthony, Rhode Island
Quakertown, N. J....... 10 00 Elida Johns, Pleasant Dale...
Concord .. wid ede 200018. Pairbare; UT is
Wilmington, Del.. Bais 696 00/Anna Kirk, Buckingham, Pa.
Dachy lack ccuwunes 162 00J. M. Wilson, Sterling, Mil.....
Birmingham ............4 174 90Samuel Marshall, Milwaukee,
Badsbury. ....208i) wan BO OO) WV NT y. itbs dnpes ocypanshas abou

' Hockessin, Del .......... 22 00/M.. E. Cooper, Cincinnati,
Trenton; Ny Jsiicssevgs. TS OOP: (Oo Lees eile tavevines pe
Upper Greenwich, N.J. +: 43° OOIT He Bayi eviews saeucees
Piles Grove, N. J........ 50 00.0. Forcett, Goshen, Ohio......
Modiord, (Ny divjsccssives 31 00\Eliza Swain, Xenia, Ohio......
Alloways Creek, N. e 5 00;Change, Cincinnati, Ohio......
Mount Holly, N. J...... 6 00Sarah Shreeve, Columbus,
Chester, Pa .iiidscseesss 1G: DOr QBN ocak Bidhn ew ebereuseercoumr

To Cash received from— BAGG JOM THN clos ieee tans

Joel J. Bailey, i. cd, 10 00 Friend to the DODGY 2 ssuisscpings

Mary M. Thomas, Valley, Pa. 400N. & E. Ty Potter, Battle

Rachel Haines, Fallston, Md.. 175 00} Creek, Mich...............s0000

A Friend, Camden, Del teu eeNs 10 00 Stephen’ Mosher, West Liber-

esti nae RO ODF yO WRU. Ud declevenweracus
wii »; Riva, Philadsipia 500 00)Ruth Mosher and others........

A Friend Heeea sk iW chile uch BueuacNye 2 00\Letitia G. Haines........... 0...

WWafeluels dvi cuetameritttuncven . 2 OO|M. E. S., Salem, N. J ...... ..

Mrs. gon P: Crozer, Dela- Robert Mosher, ee

ware Co.) Pal cn ease 25 00; Ohio.. se Hat

Emma Crozer, Del. Co., a 25 00|Friends of Deerfield, Ohio. cabs

Be eT ss ssicvuseeusnsetuess 9 00\Mullica Hill, Pieedman's Re-

Martha Carman, Camden, N.J. 5:00) ‘Leki aliis wu id iduduae

Sarah C. Park, t 20 00 Yardleyville Froedinau’s Aid.

Esther 8. J ustice, Bucks thai Happy Retreat School, Nor-.

ER nkdoas osettcis eslaiencad 60 00) Hatown, Passiciiice cue
George Justice, hae Co., Estate of F. i me Jacob
PR iaieeeteses Sacdaubcns boenedeas 10. 00); Williams... iio dic as

Newlin C. Pierce......00. ...000+ - 10 00

 

eI Or bo

_
ssssess $8 $3 s

AH ANOMNWSS wrt ao ox

Sat y bo
SSSee ge

~T waaa bt m bo 0
S$ $2383 8 S88

CO a
oo
-~I

> 3s

33 46
6 00
§2 20
Clothing, ete., received from 5th mo. 1st, 1866, to 5th mo. 1st, 1867.

Jaooks WE. ENG isa dissts sievkdichidanden dap niasde 4 lo's of Clothing and Books.
L. K. Brown, Little Brittain............... Clothing.
Linke Hanooo® 0.5 ssesmetivushte sekkisades »
Freedmen’s Aid, West Chester........... 1 box Clothing.
RB, Wh Caahaian cuss tec cseine Maps, Books, &c.
T. B. Ackley, Germantown. ............... Clothing.
Elizabeth Warner, Bristol, Dead. New Stockings.
A Friend. sud bicledonds wtensdiebdwemidgnes bend vgs Clothing.
Rbensibanibecbagbwnes eis oueleeeam eens Books.
Franklin Bh WV MOMs ii doen nadessahnenynsin » Clothing.
RAREOM  Cee rei ce, tala pens
Friends of Chester; Pa..iis.écisciba..cess. st
Debby Bpackmans. s.sisesess..sopteuilencs a
Friends of Lambertville, ...... ..0:..seee0 “A
fF Providemoe.cicieiies tabsbigdeGhins 1 box of Books and Clothing,
AlEVOG FL, TiO COs oe skis shsbac seks coseaupeaelbtns Pantaloons Stuff and Toys.
Riohard Cad bory sii ccc iscscensy:idenadberbhets 1000 Papers ‘‘ British Workmen.”
George Dold, iscsciiiiinss.-cleeasrb sncaiens Toys.
Bed. As GOWARee, . iss caasienisyonndnureaieGides
JHMOR ASR oi Siu iis sitise csusseyes Clothing.
Kate & George T. Laing. ...:.......00.600 400 Books, Toys, &c., for Christmas.
Wi Wy ORR ss irik since vin cocssutenduecnoen Clothing.
SALMA.) PAIPIADS dieccenseicsssnnpnian tunsaeia
T., BMRA ai dieanecnastncanbesoes Avenband 100 School Books and Clothing.
Sarah Pusey, Nottingham..............+0 Stockings.
Jane Hall, Hestonville.............+0++ + 2 barrels Clothing.
Comly PW pelnb bes silts hoe crass Clothing.
TOAD, CODON: si svi visinnesusneeovenionnbanis
Friends of Hockessin, Del...............+.+ 1 box Clothing.
Mary A. Eisenbry, Lumberville. Veackene Clothing,
Harriet E. Reading...... -.ssceecerereeee vee
DRONE VOGT ics sis ereesnieed saab neniae +f
Rachel W. Moore......-.ccosecsssconeeseesess 2 lots of Stockings and Clothing.
Letitia: Hain ee il ick cnanmnsaie Clothing.
G. Worrel, Wilmington.si.....sc.45. 4000+ 1 piece of Stuff for Pants.
Mullica Hill Relief Ass...... eae senesecoe ces 4 bags Clothing.
Friends of Norristown........+...+sssseeee 1 box Clothing.
Happy Retreat School, Norristown...... 1 box of Books and Clothing.
Margaret Bancroft ...........seseseeeeseeeees Woollen Skirts.
Dr. Bageell. visor ssuvses ons naive teaseeccensons 40 pieces of Clothing.
Rath: A. Lippinoothnnrcosdsicsncse cores svnonen Clothing,
AL BRON ih oiiss tedaenasebbvsancly os cennenve
M. A. Thomas, Downingtown. ........... 1 bag Clothing.
A. Campbell & Co., Chestnut St ...-... 1 piece of Stuff for Pants.
Mary, A. BV Anise cicccssuensthinndenearneyipam Books.
D. Ferriss, Wilmington........ Sas evin panies Socks. (
Friends of Upper Greenwivh............... Books.

Laing & Maginnit.....cercie secviss vee doves Shoes.
26

P. Garret & Co.. aaubor diaow sUWahecanee 100 Lincoln Portraits.
From Germantown, Pa. 4 por he W.
MoOre. chien saubsuivanwenpieneiicesssues cbse 1 bbl. and 1 bale of Clothing & Shoes.
Louisa J. Robertsin..iersenii sie. + cease es Clothing.
Wrightstown Sewing Circle....... wuietesey 2 bags Clothing.
J. H. Dudley, Mt. Laurel...........+.++++ Clothing.
Friends of Wrightstown.............s+ss+0
A Wrigng ss acct rick s 3<scos+e ssbananen ee
Shaker settlement at Mt. Lebanon,
INS Vises tps eee eh scdepMeeaiis wons cc's hu cane 1 Lb]. —2100 papers of Seeds.
Bd wd. HOOpGas, 5.065. 6etiecs. sess soovanaue Clothing.
R., Dower sd 8. 34 ieee chee we de sineeabs
Fie Mis AAG yi caieae'sces onbehitons epnee deenhnnen fs
Letitia §. Cadwallader, Makefield........ Garden Seeds.
‘‘ Women of Pineville °?....... nov cateamnanie Box of Clothing.
Friends of Sadsbury. ssc. spesisis ieaesuauteas af
Wilson Dennis, Bucks Co ........ 2.000. - Box of Seeds.
North Baptist Church sissuldonst doscused -- 600 Illustrated Papers.
Lewis Palmer, Concordville ................ 2 Subscriptions ‘‘ Children’s Friend.”’
J. Mendenhall, Wilmington, Del......... Clohning-
ANNA Gilpiniie rit isesceuseucoosaeee mea iabe
LOwWik Waltons usvccssculcpaaueeontceies tad Seads.
Chas. C. Bergman, Germantown......... 200 Illustrated Papers.
Martha L. Jones, West Philad.........- - Clothing.
Andrew MoFooters.....,... svsess ssecsonssnes Porterage during the year.
Hancock’s Bridge, NiiJ ciis..ceecescecics,. Bag of Clothing.
Louisa J.. Robertess: isc istel eiuaseateeteties Books.
A PHenGii cinch. cibuatvaed. Veep hetid eee, Clothing.
Jonathan Paxson, Bristol, Pa............. Box of Books.
MOURA Che TLAINOS Licey peas asoreandednstionelve Books.
Received by Henry M. Laine,

30 N. Third Street.
Philadelphia 5th mo. 1, 1867.
27

Annual Report of Forwarding Committee.

No. 43. 1 kox. C. Hancock, Mount Pleasant, S. C., Muslins, Trimmings, &e.

1a ke ee Taylor, AS ‘¢ Unmade Mite ny
45. 1 pkge. Saml. Le Steer, Waterford, Pais Books.
e605 %

47, 1.00L a B ehae. one D. C., 50 Garments.

48. 1 pkge. Sallie E. Lloyd, Woodlawn, Va., ‘Books, &c.

49, 1 bale. Wm. Tate, London Co., Va.

50.1 ‘* Mary Still, Florida, Clothing.

Ok. Swe’ i Cama, Hines, Vienna, Va., Books, &c. .

52.1 ‘*  Hettie R. Painter, Painter P. 0., Va., Books, &c.

53. 1trunk.C. Hancock, Mount Pleasant, S. C., 152 Garments, &c.
O46, 1 Dix. Fy Heald, St. Helena, 5. C. , Clothing.

$6.7 is Books, Seeds, &c.

BE AE rf ff Blankets, &eo. i
57. 1 bbl. Sarah M. Ely, ‘‘ Bread.

Bed a ' te Sundries, &e.

59. 1 c 6c 6é

60. 1 box. C. Hancock, Mount Pleasant, S. C., 320 Garments, &e.
61. 1 bale. Katie E. Hall, Andrews Chapel, Va., 61

C2 tC 7 eG, Shortlidge, Big Falls, Va., 67 ‘e
63. 1 ‘* Fannie E. Gause, Herndon, Va., 60 h
64.1 ‘* KE. E. Way, Falls Church, Va., 66 -
65. 1 bbl. M. K. Brosius, Vienna, Va., 85 if
66.1 ‘“ Mary McBride, Fairfax C. H., Va., 90 ity
67. 1 ‘* Martha Wright, Lewinsville, Va., 83 ve
68. 1 box. Caroline Thumas, Leesburg, Va., 130 .
69.1 ‘* §. A. Steer, Waterford, Va., 81 ee
70. 1 ** Sallie E. Lloyd, Woodland, Va., 84 <

71.1 ‘* ©. Hancock, Mount Pleasant, Va., Clothing.

72. 1 bbl. Capt. G. R. ‘Chandler, Winchester, Va., New Clothing.
doe koe Part-worn do.
74.1 ‘* Caroline tities Leesburg, Va., Trimmings, Books, &c.
75. 1 bale. J. A. Dugdale, Iowa, 3 pieces Flannel.

76. 1 box. 8. M. Ely, St. Helena, S. C., Flannels, Trimmings, &e.
77.1 * Gen. J. Ely, Louisville, Kentucky, 193 new Garments.
78. 1 bbl. M. A. Taylor, Mount Pleasant, 8. C., Clothing.

79. 1 Sundries.
80. 1 ‘* Carrie Taylor, rt big

81. 1 ‘* Caroline Thomas, Leesburg, Va., Clothing.

$2.2 Oe OS AS Steer: Waterford, Va., 88 Garments.

8&3. 1 ‘* Sallie E. Lloyd, Woodlawn, Va., Clothing.

84. 1 ‘* Maria R. Mann, Washington, D. Oe 60 Garments.

85. 1 box. Mary McBride, Fairfax C. H., Va., ‘Clothing, Shoes, &c-
86.1 ‘* F. A. Gause, Herndon, Va.,

St. a bbl. E. E. Way, Falis Church, Va., Books, Shoes, &c.

88. 1 Gaynor Heacock, Beaufort, 8. C., Unmade Clothing.

89. 1 ey e. H. K. Painter, Painter Pa Oyy Va. , Slates, Books &e..
90. 1 bbl. M. K. Brosius, Vienna, Van, Clothing, Books, &e.
28

No. 91. 1 box. 8. M. By, Beaufort, 3: C., Clothing.
Dee Ae Sundries.
93. 1 bbl. ce ne Stores. \
RA cee " as Bread.
95. 1 ** Eliza Heacock, Washington, D. C., 75 Garments.
96. 1 ‘ Gen. J. Ely, Louisville, Ky., 71 iy
97. 1 bale. H. Leonard, Maryland, 26 +t
98. 1 box. C. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C., Trimmings, &c.
OO eee ace Smith, Gum Spring, Va., "Books, Shoes, &e.
100. 1 bbl. Clothing.
101. 1 box. Eben a. Clark, Fortress Monroe, Va., New Clothing.
102. 1 bbl. Part-worn do.
103. 1 pkge. School i Sotfork, Va., Books.
104. 1 bbl. Eliza Heacock, Washington, D. C., 75 Garments, &e.
RO 2. 6 War, Falls Church, Va., 2
106. 1 box. M.K. Brosius, Vienna, Va., Books, Shoes, &c.
107.1 ‘* ‘T.8: Wright, Accotink, Va., Books, Seeds, &c.
108. 1 bbl. M. K. Brosius, Vienna, Va., Books and Seeds for 8 schools.
109. 1 box. Susan H. Clark, Fortress Monroe, Va., 223 Garments, Seeds, &c
110. 1 bbl. OD. K. Smith, Gum Spring, Va., Clothing, Seeds, &c.
111.1 ‘* R.M. Bigelow, Washington, D. C., Children’s Clothing.
DLS ss Seay a Cadwallader, Bladensburg, Md., Trimmings, &c., for
tore.
113. 1 box. Hettie K. Paiuter, Painter P. 0., Va., Books, Seeds, &c.
114. 1 pkge. H. P. Martin, Roxborough, N. C., id
115. 1 box. E. E. Way, Falls Church, Va., Books, &c.
116. 1 bale. J. E. Griffing, Washington, D. C., 25 Garments.
117. 1 box. T. Sheppard Wright, Woodlawn, Va., 2 small Libraries, &c.

Total

75 Packages, during the Year.

For Committee.
Henry M. Laine.

Philadelphia, 5th mo. 1st, 1867.
 

 

FOURTH ANNUAL REPORT

 

Friends’ Association

OF

PHILADELPHIA

FOR THE

and Elevation of the Hreedmen.

PHILADELPHIA:
MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS,
243 Arch Street.

1868.

 

 

 
FOURTH ANNUAL REPORT

~

OF THE

Friends’ Association.
PHILADELPHIA

FOR THE

Aid and Elevation of the Srecdmen.

 

PHILADELPHIA: |
MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS,
243 Arch Street.

1868.
OFFICERS.

 

SECRETARIES,

JACOB M. ELLIS,

325 Walnut St., Phila.

ANNIE COOPER,

1626 Filbert St.

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY,

ANNIE COOPER, ©

1626 Filbert St.

TREASURER,
HENRY M. LAING,

30 North Third St.

STANDING COMMITTEES.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE,

Jacos M. Extis, Epitu W. ATLEEg,
AuFRED H. Lovsz, Marrtua Dopeson,
Lypia GILLINGHAM, > Harriet HE. STockzy,

JosppH M. Trumay, Jr.,
Marearet A. Griscom,
Louisa J. RoBrerTs.

PURCHASING COMMITTEE,

EvizaBeTH J, Ferris, Franxuin 8. Winson,

ANNE BIDDLE.

Margaret S. ParRisH,

FORWARDING COMMITTEE,

Grorex W. Rosins, Mary Suaw,
Eien M. Cuip, Emity B. Smyta,
Lypra B. Paxson, Emity H. Arxinson,

Anna M. Cuixp,
Saraw K. GInLinewam.
Henry M. Laine.

CLOTHING COMMITTEE,

All the female members of the Association, and such other women as shall

join with them in the work, constitute this Committee.

, *

Ditutwyn ParrisH, Jacos M. Ex.is,
Hannau Lippincort, Letitia G. Hangs,
Wm. C. Bippts, CHARLES Evans,
Sarau K. Ginuineuam,  T. E. CHapman,
Lukens WepsrTER, Henry M, Laine, |
Racuet W. Townsend, Anna M. CuILp,
Samuzt S. Asu, Aurrep H. Loves, —
Wa. Heacocg, ‘Wo. J. GinLineuam,
ANNA SHOEMAKER, EpMUND WEBSTER,
as ,
AUDITORS,

EDWARD ParRISH,

COLLECTING COMMITTEE,

Drsoran F. Waarton,
SAMUEL TOWNSEND,
Groree W. Rosiys,

| THOMAS GARRIGUES,
Mary H. Newso.p,
Dr. C. SHOEMAKER,
Wm. M. Levick,
Spencer Rogers,
MorprEcal Buzsy.

Wm. Canzy Bippte.

 

a
REPORT.

 

In preparing the Fourth Annual Report of the proceedings of
‘‘ Friends’ Association for the Aid and Elevation of the Freed-
men,” we find that, although our interest in the cause of the
Freedmen continues unabated, the incidents worthy of note have
greatly lessened within the past year, owing to our having been
compelled, by the condition of our funds, simply and carefully
to perform the work before us upon the old ground, without as-
suming new labor in fresh fields. .

In the 9th month, at the close of the summer vacation of the
schools under our care, the Education Committee reported, that
‘they deemed it advisable to discontinue the two at St. Helena,
S. C:” that “they had agreed to continue the three at Mt.
Pleasant—teachers for two of which had been selected; and that —
partial arrangements had been made for the Virginia schools ;’’
all of which was approved by the Association. And as these
schools when opened could not be sustained during the winter
term without more pecuniary aid, a committee was, at that time,
appointed, to devise some means by which Friends generally
might become more interested in their prosperity. This commit-
tee prepared an appeal, which was subsequently sent to each of
the Monthly and Preparative Meetings of our Yearly Meeting.
Through this medium we believed we might truthfully acknowl- .
edge—‘“ That our labors among the Freed people have heretofore
been greatly blessed, and that, although they have now arrived
at that condition in which they are able to provide for the most
pressing of their bodily wants, they yet need help in the educa-
tion of their children.’”*

Although the response to this appeal was tardy and faint, we
have been enabled cautiously to move forward, and have con-
4

tinued to assist in sustaining the following schools, under the
care of their respective teachers; who, well knowing all the
attendant privations, rejoicingly accepted their appointed posi-
tions.

VIRGINIA SCHOOLS.
At Fairfax C. H., Fairfax Co., mrane by Mary E. McBride.

Vienna, a Catharine E. Hall.
Herndon, a xe f Frances E. Gauze.
Falls Church, - ‘¢—s~ Philena Heald.
Lewensville, Rt a Sarah M. Ely.
Woodlawn, ie ef Sarah EH. Lloyd.
Gum Spring, ff ‘© = Deborah K. Smith.
Leesburg, Louden Co., ‘: Caroline Thomas.
Waterford, ff +s Sarah A. Steer.

Manasses, Prince William Co., “ Mary B. Perry.

SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOLS.

At Mount peseeont, taught by Cornelia Hancock.
c i Mary A. Taylor.
i: :. Isabel Lenair, (col’d.)

Extracts from letters written by our teachers, after the
season of refreshment during the summer vacation, show the
‘readiness with which these patient, earnest toilers returned to
their fields of labor, and also the character of the work before
them. Philena Heald, Falls Church, Va., describing her arrival
at the dilapidated station platform, with no one to meet or wel-
come her, with “no sign of life, save one man of rough exterior,
in no way connected with the railroad,” who kindly answered
‘her inquiries as to what could be done towards conveying her and
her baggage to the village, adds, ‘‘I thanked him kindly, and sat
myself down on the steps, as there was no choice of seats or
rooms. AsIsat in a strange country in that novel position,
with the blue heaven above me, and the free air around me, there
was peace in my soul; and I felt strong and willing; and, though
far from friends and home, I felt that God was near. A spirit
of prayer seemed also there, and it was to me a season of bless-
ing.’

In a later letter she says, ‘Though a stranger i in a strange land,
5

I feel not the truth of the adage, nor have I for one moment —

since coming here experienced a lonely feeling. The people are

good and kind, and the consciousness of having your sympathy,

your friendly interest, and your kind remembrances, are never-
failing sources of consolation.”’ |
‘‘My school is regular, yery interesting, and of good size, wit
a prospect of being still larger; and though I need some of the
appliances for classifying my school properly, one can do won-
ders where there is a will. Some of my pupils are very bright
and intelligent, learn very quickly, and enjoy reading intensely.”

Frances E. Gauze, Herndon, Va., writes—

‘“T think my pupils have not forgotten much during the long
vacation; they all seemed glad to see me; some of them were
afraid I would not come back. My men have plastered the
school-house, and it is much more comfortable. They will also
get me a new stove. I received, the other day, fifteen needle-
books for my school;—a lady from Philadelphia, visiting this
part of the country, sent them to me. Thou mayst know there
were a number of sable faces made brighter by the gift. We have
formed a sewing society, and one afternoon in each week will be
devoted to that branch of industry. We have about fifty pupils
in our First-day school. Five ‘of the teachers are colored, and
three white. We are much in want of papers for this school.”

From Caroline Thomas, Leesburg, Va.—
‘‘T do not see that the children have lost much during vacation,

notwithstanding they were left almost entirely without books. |

All seemed glad to be in school again ;—-some apply themselves —

diligently to their studies; others are idle. The latter I in-
tend to discharge, and to have my school filled with those who
are anxious to obtain an education, and to work for it. I intend
to open a night school next month, and shall adopt the same
rule there: not to have any scholars who are not anxious to
learn.”

From Mary E. McBride, Fairfax Court House, Va.— ,

‘¢My school does not number so many pupils as before vacation ;
but they are coming in rapidly. I opened with twenty scholars ;
and am sorry you do not intend keeping the school up more than

six months longer. ‘he people here are not yet able to sustain:

schools of their own, and very much regret their inability to do
so. I sincerely hope you may be agreeably disappointed regard-
ing the state of your funds at that period. In the course of a

-
6

year or so, a system of Free Schools will be inaugurated here,
and they will need help from some source until then.”’ |

From Cornelia Hancock, Mount Pleasant, S. C.—

“We found all the school property had been well taken care of
during our absence; and it took but a day or two to announce
to the children that school wouldre-open. The call was liberally
responded to by the attendance of about one hundred. By the
third day we could have received a visit from any of our friends,
and they would have found the same regular routine as here-
tofore. The force of the remark I made last year, that these
schools were the most easily re-organized of any I had ever been
in, was still more striking this year; the children even remem-
bered their numbers in their classes. I told them, that while
I was in the North, I had visited schools where the pupils re-
cited their whole lesson without being -asked a single question
by the teacher; and I asked them to make the effort to prepare
theirs in the same manner ; and two classes have accomplished -
it to my satisfaction.” |

From Mary A. Taylor, Mt. Pleasant, 8S. C.—
__ My school numbers about the same as it did before vacation.
Every morning, at nine o'clock, I am treated to the sight of forty
sable faces, presenting themselves as candidates for education.
The third morning after school opened, everything was going on
so naturally that I could hardly realize we had been out of
school at all; every lesson prepared from just where we left off
in the summer. I promoted nearly all my first class to Corne-
lia’s school, and took in some new ones. I think the inhabitants
here look more favorably on our schools than they have hereto-
fore done.”

From Sarah Ann Steer, Waterford, Va.—

‘I re-opened school on the first day of tenth month with thirty
pupils; which number has increased to thirty-eight. All seem
glad to get back to school again, and I am surprised they have
lost so little during vacation. In this interval the colored people
set themselves to work in good earnest to finish the house, which
is to serve the double purpose of a school-room and church.
They had it plastered, the entire expense of which was borne
-by one man. They then had a church festival, the proceeds of
_ which they devoted to putting in seats anda desk for me. I

have the prospect of a full school this winter, though very few
of my large pupils have ‘yet returned; several men have been
- working all summer, and saving up something for this winter, in
order to come to school.”
7 .
The aim of the teachers has been to prepare their pupils to take
the position of instructors, when the inclination becomes appar-
ent, and in several instances our schools have thus been supplied

with efficient assistants ;—some allusion is made to these in the
following extracts from letters of more recent date.

Cornelia Hancock writes from Mount Pleasant, S. C.—

«This month (Hleventh,) the weather has been unusually fine,
hence the extremely good average. Out of thirty-six pupils in
my department, there is an average attendance of thirty-four! It
looks formidable in the morning, to see in the yard one hundred —
and fifty children, who must be assembled and brought into order
by three teachers. We assemble in one of the rooms below stairs,
and read a portion of the Bible to them, and ask them questions
upon it. After the opening exercises we separate to oug respec-
tive rooms, and commence the lessons for the day. The attendance
aud interest of the scholars continue so good, that we are able to.
‘make promotions, and keep up a thoroughly graded school.

‘| wish some of you could visit this school, and see and know
how much these pupils have accomplished for themselves in the
space of two years.”

Mary A. Taylor, also at Mt. Pleasant, remarks :—

‘‘ Little that is new can be said of our school; nor do I know that
there should be anything new; only the old, well persevered in.
The average has been unusually good this month, (forty-three
out of forty-five.)- In these schools we do not have to make the
ordinary allowance for sickness, for they come when they are sick,
sit around the fire until their chills have passed off, and then re-.
sume their work. I have counted forty-three or forty-five every
day, and flatter myself that I can see an improvement daily.
Some scholars have never missed « single day, since I first came
to South Carolina. The colored teacher we have assisting us is
a very good singer, and we have taught the children a number of —
beautiful little hymns which they sing very sweetly.”’ |

Isabel Lenair a colored teacher at Mount Pleasant, is supplying
the place of Esther Hawks, (who. has been delayed from reaching
her school. by impassable roads, in that portion of Florida from
which slte is to come;) and is giving satisfaction to our other
teachers located there, who have a supervision over her school.
Her report is confirmatory of the estimation in which she is held.
She has seventy pupils, all between 6 and 16 years of age; 41
write, 45 read, and 27 are in the alphabet.
8

Mary E. McBride, at Fairfax Court House, Va., states—

‘That, in addition to the 89 pupils she reports as in the First,
Second and Third Readers, she has ‘four who can read anything
set before them, and they have been through the Fourth Reader long
since.’ She also informs us that, in consequence of indisposition
for one or two days, she had to place the school under the entire
care of Maggie Lewis, (her colored assistant,) and that, during
her absence, her school was visited by two clergymen, who sub-
sequently reported to her that they found the school in excellent
order.”’

Although apparently a trifling circumstance, it is gratifying —
to know that one who has received her instruction under our ~
auspices, is not only capable of imparting her stores of know-
ledge to,others, but also of maintaining discipline in the school.

Sarah Ann Steer, at Waterford, Va., remarks—

‘ Since my last report, I had a pleasant visit from D. F. W., of
Philadelphia. She expressed herself pleased with the appear-
- ance of my school, which was truly-gratifying to me.”

Sarah M. Ely, located near Lewensville, Va., writes—

‘‘T have a deep interest in the school and the people. I have
tried, and shall try again, to get them to place something every —
week in my hands, if it is only half what they spend for tobacco ;
but so far they will not consent to that arrangement, although
they spend considerable every week for that abomination. The
progress of the school is very encouraging, and they are governed
easily. My health is good, and though almost entirely cut off
from all society, I am contented and very happy, and much
pleased to be here.” |

Caroline Thomas, at Leesburg, Va., writes—

‘‘My evenings are very much occupied since I have commenced
tbaching night-school, but it is well to be so, as I am better sat-
isfied to be employed. There is so much to do here that I some-
times feel as though I had just commenced. If the people here ~
would arouse to a sense of this great work, take hold of it, and
help me along, we could do much more. At times, when I look
ahead, I am almost discouraged, and must needs take a glance at
the past, and with this contrast I can then see and know it is
well for me to be here. The improvement in the children has been
such, that one can scarcely believe they are the same. I have so
many little creatures, who require so much patience, and who
have not the right kind of home-training, as playful as kittens,
but much naughtier, that daily my prayer goes up for patience,
patience.”’
9

Philena Heald, at Falls Church, Va., states— | :

“The anxiety to gain knowledge, manifested by many of the
pupils, is a constant incentive to renewed effort and increased
earnestness on my part. My interest has been especially
awakened in a young woman who has commenced coming to
school lately. She has no mother, keeps house for her father and
brothers, but comes to school whenever she can possibly leave.
She did not know her alphabet, but in less than a week she has
‘ learned to read in four letters, and is trying hard to learn how
to write and cypher. She is a fine, noble girl, and is very grate-
ful for the privilege of schools, never before having had an oppor-
tunity to attend. My heart goes out to her in tender sympa-
thy. Joseph Hornor and Charles Kirk have visited us most
acceptably since last I wrote to you. The former is visiting the
. colored people in a religious capacity, and his concern extends in
a special manner to South Carolina and Georgia. They had a
meeting in my school-room, and the advice given was truly ex-
cellent and very practical. I am sure the people must have been
benefitted thereby. To me this visit was a most welcome one, and
it seemed very homelike to have those with me who used the plain
language. ‘Their presence did me good, and the precious season
of silence, ere the words of encouragement were uttered, was to
me rich in blessings.” — |

Letters accompanying the school report for Twelfth month,,
show the progress of the pupils. They also contain acknowledg-
ments for the tokens of remembrance which have been sent by
benevolent individuals.

Mary A. Taylor, Mt. Pleasant, S. C., writes—

“The tax money for this month was paid promptly and willing-
ly,—only two little girls failing; and I have the promise of get-
ting it as soon as their father is paid for his cotton. Number of
pupils in this school 45, with an average attendance of 42.”

Cornelia Hancock, at the same place, says— ee

‘‘This is the season when the moving is done, and if we lose a
few scholars, it will be owing to this fact. Number of pupils in
this school 32, with an average attendance of 81.” |

 _Tsabel Lenatr, also at Mt. Pleasant, is still satisfactorily filling

the place of Esther Hawks. Her school shows an astonishing
progress. It now numbers 72 pupils, with an average attend-
ance of 70! Last month she had 70 pupils, with twenty-seven
in the alphabet ; this month she has only 13 in this rudimentary
branch. |
10

Mary K. Perry, (late Brosius,) located at Manassas,—

Informs us that at the time of writing her school had only been -
in operation one week, and that it numbered twenty-one pupils.
Her evening school numbers twelve, and thirty-two attend the
First-day school. - ae

Sarah Ann Steer, at Waterford, remarks—

‘““My report for Twelfth month varies but little from the pre-
ceding month, except in the average attendance, which is less,
owing to the cold, stormy weather that prevented some of the
little ones getting here. I have had but one new scholar this
month; he is worth mentioning, being the minister stationed on
this circuit, and whose home is temporarily in our village.”

From Caroline Thomas, at Leesburg, Va.—

‘To-morrow I shall resume my school with renewed vigor, af-
ter my short holiday. And now a word or two about my scholars —
and their Christmas. The children made a happy group, and I
wish the little folks who contributed so much to the pleasure of
these poor children, could have been present when the papers
were removed which concealed the treasures. In addition to
other matters, every one had a book. There were some happy
little children that night.

_. “T have started a class in History, and one in Grammar, and
they get along nicely. I shall deplore the necessity of having to
eave these children, when the time comes for us to close the
schools.” ,

Philena Heald, at Falls Church, in response to some sugges-
tions as to the practicability of getting the Freedmen to deposit
a small stipend in her hands for the double purpose of teach-
ing them economy, and to aid in the maintenance of the school,
as has been repeatedly recommended elsewhere, states,—

‘“‘[ have not even alluded to it, and have felt that I would
rather teach without pay than ask them, as there are very few
who are able to support themselves comfortably,—many are bare-
foot this cold weather,—some have old rags wrapped round their
feet—others have mere shells of shoes, and the body scarcely co-
vered! I think where it can be done, it is well, for it will no
doubt help to make them self-reliant and self-supporting.”

Frances EH. Gauze, at Herndon, Va., writes—

“T expect to have a large reinforcement to my school the com-
ing month (First)—at least so the colored people inform me. The
First-day school is attended by both parents and children, and
the papers sent are gratefully received. I closed school for a
11

week during the holidays, and embraced the opportunity of visit-
ing some of my co-laborers in the cause. By previous arrange-
ment, five of your teachers met at the residence of Capt. Smith,
in Leesburg, talked over school matters, compared notes, gave in
their respective ‘experiences,’ and, in fact, had a regular school
meeting.

‘Two of us made a visit to Waterford, where we staid over
First-day, and attended Friends’ Meeting,—the first opportunity
I have had since coming to Virginia. I felt it a great privilege
to meet with them, and to receive their kind words of counsel. —
Their cordial reception reminded me that I was indeed amongst
Friends. ba |

‘The clothes that have been sent by my Kennett friends
are doing much good. If they could have seen how glad the
Freedmen seemed to get any thing I had, no matter how old,
they would have felt repaid for the trouble they had-taken to get
up so valuable a box.” is

Mary EH. McBride, at Fairfax Court House, Va., remarks—
“T have lost six of my best pupils, amongst whom are the
Lewis children. Their parents have concluded that they are not
able to send them to school any longer; and they can make good
wages by being hired out. |
‘T have felt very much discouraged for the last month, the wea-
ther has been so very stormy, which will account for the small
average attendance. Sometimes, after wading through ice, snow, °
mud and rain for a mile, and experiencing considerable difficulty
in crossing the swollen brooks, to find, on my arrival, but few
present, is not very cheering. But, in justice to them I must.
say, that the greater portion live three or three and a half miles
distant.” rt :

From Sarah E. Lloyd, Woodlawn, Va.—

‘The barrel came promptly to hand. The Testaments: were
particularly pleasing, as many of. the First-day school children
had none of their own. We have 100 persons in the Sunday
School who take books from the library, and a number who can-
not read them. ‘The attendance has been much smaller than
usual, lately, because many have not sufficient clothing, especial-
ly shoes; but we hope, after the holidays, that, as well as the
day school, will fill up with older persons. The school-house is
much more comfortable than it was last winter. We have a large
stove and plenty of wood. One man said to me not long ago,
‘When you need anything, let us know, and we will try to get it
for you. Weare determined to make you as comfortable as pos-
sible this winter.’ In the fall we concluded to adopt the plan of
12

having each person who sent children to school, to pay a certain
amount each month, and it seems to work well. Of course there

are some who cannot pay, but all who can, seem to take pride

in doing so. The persons belonging to the Sunday School have

subscribed for 45 copies of ‘The Freedman,’ and these, with the

papers you send, keep us well supplied with reading; besides,
we frequently have books and papers sent to us by persons who

are interested in the school.’’
12th mo. 24th, 1867.

At Christmas time, the teachers were enabled to contribute
to the happiness and encouragement of their pupils, by distri-
buting among them gifts, furnished by children in the North
for that purpose. The following extracts will show the effects
produced among that gladdened community :—

From Cornelia Hancock—

‘Although we were disappointed in not receiving the barrel in
time for Christmas, yet they came in time for us to play Christ-
mas the day we re-opened the school; and as the children do
not know dates or care about them, I think Christmas went off as
well to them as if it had been celebrated punctually. All the
things were in good order. The room we were able to decorate
very prettily with the mottoes. The tree was filled with the toys
and candy, and the other presents were spread upon the three
tables, one for each school. The children assembled and sung
some pieces, and then commenced the distributions. I allowed
them to make a choice as they ranked in the class. The stereo-
scope I considered a very valuable present for the school, as it
will continue to delight after Christmas is over. Our schools

are large and flourishing. We have been successful in collect-

ing about fourteen dollars this month, which is encouraging in
such a poverty-stricken community. I enjoy the newspapers I
receive. Our colored teacher does well.

‘“¢ Mt. Pleasant, S. C., First mo. 9th, 1868.”

‘* Dear Lriend,—I believe I have not written to thee since I re-
ceived the barrel which came safely to hand a few days before
_ Christmas. My little folks were delighted with their books, toys,

candy, etc., and I believe I enjoyed distributing, as much as they
receiving, thus realizing the truth of the blessing being greater
to the giver than to the receiver. I took the toys, ete., to school
Christmas eve, and spread them all out, to let the. children have

a good look at them ; then let each one, beginning with the small- _

est, take his and her choice. It was quite amusing to watch their
countenances, while they gravely deliberated which to appropri-
18

ate. At last, after a long time, everything was chosen, and they
started home as happy a set as I ever saw. Everything was
just as I wanted, and I think will do much good. I cut out a
number of aprons ready for to-morrow, my sewing day. For
the last three weeks I have had one session from half past eight
until three o’clock, with a half hour intermission at noon. I
think I will continue it through the winter. Will have a longer
afternoon after my school becomes larger. |
Truly thy friend, SaraH A. STEER.
“* Waterford, 12th mo. 80th, 1867.”’

“Dear Children,—On last Third-day afternoon I gave out the
nice presents of toys and candies you sent. As each present was
handed out, I wished you could be present to see how happy you ©
made these children. You will never be forgotten .by them.
Several of the children were sick, and I sent gifts to them. Yes-
terday, one sister told me how happy you had made her little
brother. The mottoes I have nailed up, and the children trimmed
them with overgreens. On Third-day afternoon some of the pa-
rents came in and. heard them read and answer some questions.
They seemed as glad as the children over the presents. ‘T'o the
mothers I gave some thread, needles and buttons. I shall teach
the children to sew on the dry goods. ‘The tin plates I gave to
some old people. The books I hope to use in the First-day
school, I have just commenced. I had some very nice books sent
me which I gave to the larger scholars. 1 hope your own Christ-
mas was a happy one, and that all that are to come may be so.
My love for yourselves. :

Your friend, SARAH M. E ty.

“ Thriftland, 12th mo. 30th, 1867.” :

“My dear little Friends,—A merry Christmas to you! and may
the dear Heavenly Father bless you, both now and in all coming
years. Indeed, I am sure that He will, if you continue thus mindful
of the happiness and comfort of others. O that you could have.
seen the happy faces, covered all over with smiles, made so by
your kindly gifts; their little hearts beat quick and fast as they
watched with eager eyes the pretty, amusing, good and useful
presents you sent to them. Some of them had told me a few
days before that they were too poor to have Christmas; that
there was no use for them to hang their stockings up. I did not
inform them then that dear little children miles away at the
North had remembered them, for I wanted to surprise them ; but.
when they heard that you had chosen to make them happy, their
bright eyes filled with tears of joy and gratitude, for these dark-
browed children of our Heavenly Father have large souls and
14

warm hearts; they are stirred by the recital of kind deeds, of
human joy, pain or suffering. They listen with the most intense
interest when I read to them of good children, or anything that
is calculated to awaken sympathy in any heart. The little books
sent have been a source of true pleasure to them. How good it
was of you to send those nice warm comforts; the little half-clad
shivering ones bless you for them, indeed for everything you
sent; let me thank you sincerely in behalf of these lowly ones
who are the recipients of your bounty. Your loving spirits have
sweetly and tenderly impressed these little ones of the Father,
and made their life more sunny and joyous. O, could you know
how their pulses throb with kindly emotions, with loving desires
for you, then would your little hearts give thanks to God for
His goodness in influencing you to make joyless hearts glad
and loveless lives warm and more hopeful and loving. One of
my dear little ones is sick; she has dropsy. Dr. Hart is attend-
ing her, and he fears she will not be any better. I miss her so
much. She has not lost her share of your nice presents, but in-
stead has received an over quantity, which will give her joy in
her sickness. I nearly forgot to mention to you about a tiny
little boy who, when he came into school and saw the Christmas
tree, stood like a statue under its branches, looking up into
the faces of the wonderful things thereon, as though a new
light had broken in upon his soul; it was such a droll pic-
ture, and so touching, too, that I did wish for you all to see him;
he did not move his lips; it was to me a happy sight. And now
please accept the hearty thanks of all my school, as also of the
teacher. Farewell, with love tenderly your true friend, _
ee Puitena HEALD.
“¢ Falls Church, Fairfax Co., Va., 12th mo. 25th, 1867.”

From Deborah K. Smith, Gum Spring, Va.:—

‘‘{ have more names on my school list this month, than since
this time last winter; but the average attendance is not very
good. The people are afraid of the cold, and I think it has been
impossible for many. of them to come on account of the weather
and their clothing. This winter, the shiftlessness of some of the
people has been shown ih strong contrast with others, who have
deserved credit for their industry and perseverance. My pupils
have improved more in writing than in any other branch; several
have comprehended the rudiments of arithmetic more readily
than I supposed they would. Several have written letters lately,
who have never done so before, which has greatly pleased them.
I have taught one woman, fifty years of age, to write letters to
her son in the army; but her success was due more to her perse- ©
verance than to my instruction.”’
15

The following letter is from a little girl aged nine years, to
some who had contributed toward the Christmas gifts :—

‘1st month, 2d, 1868.
“My kind beloved Friends,—I take this on myself, to write you
a few lines to thank you for your kindness. I enjoyed myself
very much Christmas day. I thought the Christmas tree looked
very pretty, and I think that you all are very kind to send us
Christmas presents way down here. I am going to school at this
time, and 1 am learning a little every day, not spending all my
time in play; and I think if we believe in the Lord our God we
need not fear; for he can do and see all things. May God bless
you for your kindness to the freedmen. |
From Satire Lee, 9 years old.”

The Teachers thus report of the First month:

Mary A. Taylor, from Charleston, S. C., writes—

“We havea flourishing sewing school of fifty of the largest girls.
This is a goodly number to fix and cut out for, but two or three
good dressmakers (colored) have volunteered to help us. During
the first hour of evening school I teach the boys drawing. Some
of them make excellent attempts, and are deeply interested.”

Cornelia Hancock, at the same place, gives a fuller account of
their “Industrial School,’’ which has interested them for some
time, but which they-have been unable to carry into effect before,
stating that “a lady from Boston visited the school, and present-
ed us with a whole piece of muslin and one of calico; and so far,
that has helped us in material, but now we are out and want
more. I think in your Association there may be some who feel
a particular interest in their learning to sew; if so, I will prom-
ise their contributions shall be directed to good account. I think |
it an important matter, and I will do all I can to aid in the en- -
terprise. | |

“¢T have two scholars who compose sentences correctly, and one
who understands Fractions thoroughly, and ten cyphering in Com-
pound Numbers.” ) ?

Of the school of Isabel Lenair, the colored teacher, also located
at Charleston, we have a very good account. ‘She has 54 pupils
enrolled, all between 6 and 16 years of age, 41 of whom are read-
ing, 35 write, and 25 are in arithmetic. The reduced average at-
tendance is thus accounted for: ‘¢ The planting season has com-
menced, and a large number of families have moved four and five ©
miles into the country, and the larger children walk that dis-
tance, but the little ones cannot. In some cases, the children
16

are left in the village with some member of the family who is too
old to work, while the parents go up country to work.”

Frances E. Gauze, from Herndon, writes— ae

‘My class in History is very interesting; they seem to take
a great interest in it. I think our six months expires about the
first of the Fourth month. Do you propose closing the schools
at that time? I shall feel very sorry to have to part with my
pupils so soon.”

Sarah E. Lloyd, Woodlawn, Va., writes—

- You will observe that my school is not as large as last win-
ter. I think the cause is chiefly owing to the want of sufficient —
clothing, especially for the feet. Scholars who came last winter,
but not through the summer and fall, were, without exception,
when they commenced the present season, to enter advanced
classes: and a better behaved set of scholars I could not wish

for in any school.” |

Mary K. Perry, at Manassas, states— :

‘The weather has been very much against us; there has been
snow nearly all the time, and many of the children have over
two miles to walk—some over three. We have the most intelli-
gent colored people here that I have met with in this State;
but they need educating, as very few of the grown people can

read.’ |

Sarah Ann Steer, Waterford, Va., writes—

“My school is larger now than it has ever been, and I think”
quite as interesting as ever. I have a number of new pupils this
month, most of whom are men, who seem very anxious to learn,
and appear to be making the most of the short time they expect
to have at school. Some of the colored people are quite anx-
ious to devise means to support one, when the present help is
over, and they will have to depend upon themselves.

“They have appointed an evening to meet, and consider the
subject, but I fear there are not enough who are able to do much
towards it. The ménister spoken of in my last has attended
school as regularly during the month as his Pastoral duties would
permit. He has told me something of his history, which may,
perhaps, not be uninteresting. : :

‘¢He was a slave belonging to a man in one of the lower coun-
‘ties of. Maryland, and became free a short time before the war ;
he then went to Baltimore, when the Baltimore Conference ap-
pointed him to this circuit. He is about thirty-five years of age,
is a very intelligent, well-informed man, and quite eloquents in

‘
17

the pulpit, although he never went to school until now, and he
has but little knowledge of books. .He is particularly anxious
to improve his pronunciation, also to learn something of Arith-
metic and Geography, in which he is making good progress;
while his application to study, and general deportment as a pupil,
is having-a good effect in the school.

“Two weeks ago we organized a Temperance Society in school.
We have had but two meetings since, and now number fifty-two
members. I have always prohibited the use of tobacco in the
school, and as soon as the cause of Temperance is firmly estab-
lished, I intend to try to organize an anti-tobacco society; but _
think best to do one thing at a time—so bee with the greater.
evil.

‘“My sewing-school class lias been very busy working on the
new calico sent. IJ cut out twenty aprons, and gave them out to
the girls to make in school. ‘Two sew very neatly, and have
some idea of cutting out and fitting work. These I appoint to
assist me in superintending the work, which pleases them very
much. The First-day school is doing well. The packages of
Lattle Reapers sent are very acceptable, and are highly prized
by the scholars.”’

Although no official inspection of the schools hes been made
by the Association, we have received interesting and encouraging
accounts from several members, based upon personal observation.
These, with the monthly reports and letters from our teachers,
have stimulated us to persevere in our efforts to continue the
schools until the summer vacation. The following will show the
condition of each’as reported in the First month.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ba
s|. leg
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babe Sm
First Monta, 1868. glelgi-s $|4 8 2
"3 — — ont Bi _—

! Sm | eo hen ee fay ele
Catharine B. Halla csesisssceasccoes schoo 19} 21! 40] 32] 34] 30]. o| 33
Mary E. McBride,......0..ccccessveccseseses 37; 14; 51) 44) 45) 15; 0} 40
Sarah! Mi Blyj-...5.secessesseces sunneewivehers 24; 12) 36; 23; 24) 36) 3) 23
Frances EH. GauZe,.....cscece oe oseeeseeees 18}; 18!. 36). 32). 361.32! OF -30
Sarah B. Glovd,icessmesccsecessncceeotes| 80) 04) GMT GIT’ -OOl 20).7 bh age
PIAA: FON Gia oils Gaceesee se tet recess 30| 45} 75) 74). 75) 42] 21) 50
Deborah K. Smith,.........cscsscseee soos. LW Oh S8h Biri c3ar 83 OF esl
Mary B. Perry,.....ccccceces cose seccreees Ve 16h 32h 2a 200 Sh OL ae
Sarah A. Steer,.....c.cccccccccecse cosesees: 41} 22) 63) 45; 40) 40! oO} 35
Caroline Thomas,.......ceee secses ses veosn| 40) 24 G4) 440° GO 40l Sle BB
: 273| 226| 499] 413| 423| 290] 7| 371

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

|3

| eh fcgd ee

g 2 fa soe

First Monru, 1868. ae fig | 214 s Ee

ol ot Sat eed me ee ee

slfilale|/el|4@]< ia

GOPNCHA HANCOCK 0. isi sisccessceascsiepes 19} 16] 35! 35] 35) 35] 0) 35
MEW A CAVE oe eves eccal teceie 42 tue “19] 21] 40} 40} 40) 40) 0) 40 —
NPR DOHA TIOUBIE Ceili il Git unk d chcnecoes 18} 36) 54) 41) 35} 25 0} 54
56] 73] 129} 116} 110) 100] = 0j 129

273| 226| 499] 413] 423) 290} 7 317

bas) ii uve cau hw sas ca Ren snsan 329| 299! 628] 529} 533} 390} ‘Z| 500

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXTRACTS FROM LATER LETTERS.

From Sarah FE. Lloyd:

‘The trustees of the school met a few days since, to see what
could be done about keeping up the school after next month. ~
They seem very earnest to have a school, and say that they will
make a great effort to support one themselves ; but I eannot see
how they are to do it just yet. Some of them might do some-
thing towards it, but many are not able to get sufficient food and
clothing for their families, although they are generally in a much
better condition than they were one year ago. They seem very
grateful for all that has been done for them, and say that they —
feel that they ought to do something for themselves; but with-
out some assistance I do not think they will be able to support a ~
school. They expect to hold another meeting in a short time.
My school is not so large as it was last winter, but I have quite —
as many as I can attend to, even with some assistance from the
more advanced ones. ‘The plan of having each one pay a small
sum monthly has succeeded very well. We have been well sup-
plied with wood, and anything else that has been necessary, and
still have several dollars in the treasury. I expect to lose a
great many of the men at the end of this month, as the spring ©
work will soon commence, but think their places will be filled by
some of the younger ones, who have been staying at home during
the cold weather. Joseph M. Wood still conducts the night
school; I have not been able to attend it on account of the dis-
tance, and bad walking. Quite a number of my scholars, this
winter, have purchased books for themselves, so as to have them
to use in the summer. In all their homes I see books,—some
from the Sunday School library, and some of them belonging to

different members of the family ;. and I very seldom meet witha _

colored person who cannot read some. Those who have not been —

,
19

coming to school or to the Sunday School have been instructed —
by older brothers and sisters, or friends, who have been able to
attend school. One little boy of about twelve years (who came
over from Maryland and boarded with his uncle here, that he
might go to school), says that he teaches the family, at night,
what he learns during the day; and I am often surprised when
some of my old scholars return, who have not been attending
school for some time, to find that they have improved so much
that they are prepared to enter a class in advance of the one to
which they formerly belonged. Very few have begun just where
they were when they left school, and none have had to go into a
lower class. |

“‘ Woodlawn, 2d Month 22d, 1868.”

From Mary EH. Me Bride,—

‘‘Qne of the boys who has been with me about four months be-
gan the First Geography when he came, and to-day finished the
Second Book; he recited his lesson beautifully. Several of the
boys tell me they are studying very hard, as they wish to be
teachers; such encourage me. There are others.of whom I al-
most despair, as they imagine they ought to learn without any
effort of their own. | |

“‘Hairfax C. H., 2d mo. 29th, 1868.” ge

From Catharine E. Hall,—

‘That my report for last month gives you satisfaction encour-
ages me greatly. My night-school flourishes. T'wenty-five pu-
pils, all men, attend regularly. Some of them read well in the
Third Reader, and the others improve rapidly. I am more in-
terested in my night than in my day-school. The grown people
are in such good earnest, and attend to me so well. I trust my
school will not be closed this month.

“Vienna, 3d mo. 1st, 1868.”’ :

From Caroline Thomas, Leesburg, Va. :—

‘The books, mottoes, seeds, etc., were duly received ; many
thanks for them. Last evening, at our Educational Society’s
meeting, I gave out that I had seeds; they appeared much
pleased to know there was such provision for them. As yet we
have had no weather suggestive of gardening,—last night I think
was the coldest we have had this winter.’ I wish for warm weather,
not so much on my own account as for the colored people, many
of whom are very poor. A week ago, last First-day, I took a
walk for the purpose of looking after some of the poor. I called
at one house where they had no wood, and nothing to get it with.
The family consisted of an old woman, a sick daughter and three:
grand-children. I went home feeling really depressed, but de-
20

termined to make some effort towards relieving them. I reported
the case to Capt. S., who immediately summoned a man, and had
some wood sent them from his own wood-house to last till Second
day, when they were provided with a load. |

“My school is quite large,—has been since New Year’s; many
days numbering over fifty. Somedays I hear as many as twenty
classes recite. I open school at 83 o’clock in the morning, give
but half an hour noon recess, and teach in the afternoon till 43
or 5 o’clock. I felt rejoiced to learn you intend keeping the
schools open the rest of the term. I know my people are not _
able to wholly support a school yet, and they are now looking
forward to building a school-house,—to commence it as soon as
the spring opens,—which will take all they can spare from their
families. I hope they may succeed; many of them deserve to,
for they have worked with a will’ One of the men, at our edu-
cational meeting, made the remark, ‘If I have strength given
me, I am determined to give my children an education, if I have
to have them taught at home.

‘“‘T had a very pleasant visit to Waterford last week, with my.
friend Sarah Steer and her family. What dear kind friends
they have been tome! Sarah’s school-house is now finished,
and it is a very comfortable house indeed. I only hope ours (in
prospective) may be as good. I wish I could be in Philadelphia .
now for a month or so; I would do some (not shopping) but
begging, for I am determined the school-house shall be built.

“Leesburg, Va., 3d Month Tth, 1868.”

From Sarah Ann Steer,—

‘The letter containing the agreeable news of the continuance of
my school by the Association was received. I am very glad to
continue it. under your care, though it is much smaller than dur-
- ing the First and Second months. The spring work has taken
off a number of my scholars; still I find enough to keep me very
busy. Among my scholars are some that would be very glad
to fit themselves for teachers. I have always encouraged this
idea of their becoming teachers, as an inducement for them to —
study. Ihave received the package of garden seeds for distri-
bution.

“« Waterford, 3d mo, 24th, 1868.”’

From Caroline Thomas,—_

“ The time is approaching when my ‘ Winter Scholars’ leave,

and I shall have new ones. If I could keep the same all the
time, I could see greater improvement; my most advanced class —
are those who attend regularly, and who have been my. pupils
since I have been here. It is consoling to know there are young
men and women who will go into the world with a knowledge of
21

reading, writing and arithmetic acquired at my school, which —
will be an advantage to them all their lives, and I feel confident
they will not stop here; they know enough to inspire them to
higher attainments.

‘‘ Leesburg, 3d mo. 29th, 1868.”

From Sarah Ann Steer. ;

‘*T enclose my school report of Third-month. It shows acon-
siderable falling off in numbers since last month, which is owing
to the commencement of spring work. The older scholars are
leaving, and I am expecting some little ones to fill their places.
I send a composition by a boy of sixteen, who is very much -
interested in the cause of Temperance, and is Secretary for
our Society. Thou'willt see by his account how we are progres-
sing in the cause. |

‘“‘ Henry Carroll, the preacher, continues to attend school very
regularly when at home. I like him very much; he is trying
very hard to improve, and I think has made some progress,
especially in arithmetic. He brought some of his theological
works to school one day for me to assist him in studying. I told
him I could not teach anything I did not understand myself.
He seemed to think I was wise enough to teach anything, and
said if I would help him with the hard words he would be thankful.
He does not pronounce very well, and I thought I could do that,
so he reads, and I correct him and mark out the words he does

not know the meaning of, for him to find out and bring them to |

me written out the next day, which he does now, and we get along
very well; so I am teaching theology after all, though I only
undertook to teach him arithmetic and spelling. I distributed ©
the package of garden seeds a few days ago; they were very
welcome indeed. We have just had a colored man lecturing
here—Dr. J. H. Brown, formerly of Philadelphia, and now resi-
ding in Baltimore. He is a very good speaker, and the lecture
I attended was very interesting; the subject was Phrenology..
He also addressed the colored people upon their wants and con-
dition. I am very glad that the Association has determined to
continue my school a while longer. ‘The colored people have
made a great effort to support it themselves, and we think it best
to see what they can do before letting them know of this new
arrangement. I have told them positively they must depend
on themselves after the first of this month; it appeared to several
friends who are interested, as well as to me, that if they found
the school was continued entirely free for three months
longer, they would still depend on somebody providing means to
support it hereafter. We therefore concluded to let them raise
22

part of my salary—-we thought fifteen dollars per month if

they could—and the amount paid me by the Association would in ©

this way keep the school several months longer. ,
“ Waterford, 4th mo. 6th, 1868.”’

COMPOSITION ON TEMPERANCE.

I have selected the subject of Temperance for my composition
this week. <I do not think myself capable of doing justice to —
the subject, but I will endeavor to dothe best I can. One of
the arguments that is afforded to my mind is the success our
temperance cause has met with, which has not been in motion
but a short time, and now it numbers over sixty members. I
think if men would only look and see what a vast amount of
misery and disgrace is caused by using the intoxicating cup, —
they would not hesitate any longer, but would come and join the
temperance society and raise themselves in that state of society
‘ which we should all occupy. Look at Alexander the Great, one
of the greatest conquerors the world ever saw, but was lowered
from the highest position into the drunkard’s grave. How
shocking it is to think that a man like Alexander, who had
subdued so many nations, would allow himself to be conquered
by whiskey. It is the lamentable truth, that more men are killed
by the sin of intemperance than by the sword. What is a more
pitiful sight than to see a drunken man reeling along the street
or laying in the gutters ; why it is the most pitiful sight the eye
can behold; and what is that man’s feelings when he gets sober. I
cannot tell, for I never experienced it. I never was drunk inmy
life, and now, since I have joined the temperance society, I never
will be, and I hope all of the rest have the same determination,
and will not be persuaded to drink. ‘Tell them that you have.
given up the poisoned cup; it is not the drink for you. What
does the Bible say ? “Look not upon the wine when it is red;
at last it biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder.”’
‘‘There is nothing so good for the youthful blood as the clear

and the sparkling water.” ne
Henry RoBinson.

Our friend Samuel M. Janney, who has recently visited some
of the Virginia schools, speaks of them in these terms:

“At the request of Capt. S. B. Smith, the agent of the Freed-
man’s Bureau, at Leesburg, Va., I have recently paid a visit to
- the school for colored people, taught in that place by Caroline
Thomas, of Philadelphia. I found it in a flourishing condition,
about forty pupils being in attendance, most of them children. _

‘¢The exercises of the school in Spelling, Reading, Writing,
Arithmetic, Geography and Grammar, were very interesting and -
satisfactory. I have seldom, if ever, witnessed more readiness

and accuracy than were exhibited in most of the answers given.
Some of the pupils, who were from seven to nine years old,
answered promptly a variety of questions in Geography, and
designated on an outline map the different countries and states,
with their rivers and chief towns. They said a good lesson in
Grammar, and parsed sentences with remarkable readiness. The
government of the school was excellent, and the general appear-
ance of the pupils impressed me favorably. |
‘¢ This school and another at Waterford, in this county, are sup- _
ported by the Friends’ Association of Philadelphia, for the aid —
and elevation of Freedmen, and the contributors may rest.
assured that their liberality is well bestowed. The school at
Waterford, under the tuition of Sarah Ann Steer, is said to be
very well conducted, and I regret that I am not able to speak of
it from personal observation.
‘¢ The school at Lincoln, in this county, formerly taught by Isa-
bella Skillman, and more recently by Alice Duvall, is supported
by an association of Friends on Long Island. It has been well
taught, and has proved a great blessing to many. During the
winter it was composed mostly of men, and numbered from forty
to fifty. Some of them walked several miles to attend it, and two
of them, living at a distance of nearly seven miles, were regular
attendants. | : |
« Their progress in their studies was generally encouraging, and
some of them showed remarkable aptness in the acquisition of
knowledge. The great aim with many seems to be to learn to
read the Bible, and to write legibly; while a few of the more
advanced in Arithmetic express a desire to learn how to keep —
their own accounts. Within the last two weeks, nearly all of
them have left school to engage in farm-work ; a vacation of a
month has been given, and we confidently expect that on the first
of Fifth-month a large school of boys and girls will be in atten-
dance. |
‘There is no better way to improve and elevate the freed
people of the South than to aid them in obtaining an education —
suited to their condition. The Federal Government has judi-
ciously bestowed upon the Freedmen_ the elective franchise,
which is found to be indispensable for their protection, and for
the safety of other union men in the Southern States. In order |
that this high privilege may be exercised so as to ensure to
themselves and to the nation the greatest benefit, they must be
educated and taught to think for themselves. The use of the
ballot is itself one means of educating a community and eleva-
ting them in the social scale, and the most important requisites —
24

for its proper exercise are honesty of purpose and true patri- —
otism.. |

‘¢Our experience of late years has taught us that the most —
intelligent men, when actuated by ambitious motives and corrup-.
ted by the exercise of arbritary power, are the most dangerous.
Some of us can adopt the language of William Penn, who, when
he was taunted for keeping company with such a ‘simple
people’ as the Friends, replied, ‘I confess I have made it my
choice to relinquish the company of those that are ingeniously
wicked, to converse with those that are more honestly simple.’

‘¢ Many of the Freedmen are ‘honestly simple,’ but they have
a capacity for acquiring knowledge, and evince a desire for it
such as I have never before witnessed among an illiterate people.
It is very rare indeed for a white person of mature age and igno-
rant of letters to make an effort to learn to read or write, yet
there are many thousands of adults among the colored people
who have learned to read and write since their emancipation.

“The munificent contributions of the Northern people and their
benevolent efforts in this field of labor are worthy of commemo-
ration, and doubtless will have a better reward than human
praise.

‘Some of the contributors have expressed the sentiment that it
is now time to: withdraw their support and leave the colored
people to help themselves, in order that they may learn self-reli- -
ance. : !

“<A fter a deliberate consideration of the subject, I have come to
the conclusion that an entire withdrawal of support from the
colored schools during the present year, would cause many of
them to be relinguished, and might prove disastrous to the cause
we have at heart. The freed people are mostly poor and many
of them thriftless, a state which naturally results from their
former condition of slavery. They look up to the school teachers
as friends and counsellors, and it appears to me that a gradual
diminution of the aid afforded would be much better than its
sudden and entire withdrawal. In most neighborhoods they
could probably pay part of the expense of supporting the schools, |
and would cheerfully do so if the same class of teachers were
continued. , |

_ We have reason to hope that, within a few. years, legal pro-
vision will be made in the Southern States for the education of
all classes in free schools, and then there will be no further need
of assistance from other States for this purpose. 8. M. J.”’ —

The following was received in response to inquiries made by
one of the Secretaries :
25

ne : “ Manassas, Va., March 21st, 1868.

‘In compliance with your request, I went to Herndon last
Tuesday to procure the services of Miss Brinkerhoff. She
accepts the appointment, and commences the school on Mon-
day, the 23d of this month. I have made diligent inquiry with
regard to her character and ability to teach, and all who know
her recommend her highly. I feel very much gratified that this
school will commence again, as it was one of the best schools in my
division. I regret that Miss Gauze’s health would not permit her
to retain the school. I am also very sorry that Miss Heald’s health
would not allow her to remain; the school is now without a
teacher, and I would like to have it re-opened. Ihave another |
school, just started, near Centreville, which, if. the Society is
able, I would very much like to have assisted. Mr. Grant (col-
ored)is the teacher; he has about 25 scholars, all paying tuition.
There are about 25 or 30 more children who cannot pay, and are
therefore excluded. Now if the Society could send this teacher
about fifteen dollars per month, with the sum he is now receiving,
these poor children could be educated. Mr. Grant, I believe, is
avery good teacher. I visited his school yesterday, and was
very much pleased with the rapid advancement of the scholars,
and Mr. G.’s ability to teach, and would earnestly urge that your
Society assist him, if in your power.

‘The school at this place is doing finely. Mrs. Perry is doing
very well; she is a good teacher and seems very much pleased
with her school. I have visited most of the schools in this Divi-
sion, and cannot speak of any except in praise, and I know those
who give to this noble cause would feel like giving still more, if
they could see the great amount of good that is being done to-
wards elevating the once oppressed race. ;

I am, sir, with great respect, your obt. servant,

W.S. Cuasz, A. S. A. Comdt.”’

Our Treasurer has also received the following:

“ CHRISTIANSBUG, VA., March 13th, 1868.

“* My dear Friend,—I enclose herewith letters acknowledging
the receipt of articles so kindly donated to the freed-people un-
der my charge. Please accept my personal thanks for your kind
assistance and co-operation, and for the encouragement you gave.
me, though a stranger to you. Glad to inform you that the
work of elevating the freedmen is going forward in this Division,
and we have enlarged hopes for the future. ‘The schools are in ~
a very flourishing condition, and rapid progress is being made in
the primary branches of education. In places destitute of schools, —
the children are studying at their homes; and every possible
effort is being made to teach them at least to read, write and
26

cypher. A few days since I visited Floyd Court House, the
county-seat of one of the counties recently added to my Division ; _
found that the freed-people had been greatly neglected in that
locality, and were without schools, books, or even churches of
their own. I took initiatory steps towards establishing a school
at that place, and succeeded in securing the services of a colored |
man, who can read well and write a little, to take charge of the —
interest for the present. Some of the books you secured for me
I have decided to appropriate to their use. I am now required
to visit each county-seat of my six counties once a month, and
make a report of those visits to the Assistant Commissioner at
the close of each month. Shall be kept very busy, but my heart
is in the work; and the encouragement given will cheer me in
the midst of my duties. With kind remembrances,
I remain very truly yours,
C. S. ScHAEFFER.”

The meetings of the Association have been held monthly, in
the evening of the third Fourth-day ; and it may possibly be in-
teresting information, as well as an incentive to continued effort,
if we select from the record of our proceedings some of the ap- —
peals from various localities, to which we have been unable to
give an affirmative response.

At a meeting held 10th mo. 31st, M. Hichoate, a colored fe-_
male teacher, was present, and informed us of a prospect that she -
and her two daughters had, of establishing a school near Jack-
sonville, Florida. They subsequently embarked in the enter-
prise without anyendowment or fixed compensation for their ser-
vices, trusting entirely to casual contributions. An impromptu

collection of forty dollars was made, and they were requested to _

correspond with us concerning the success of their school. Fur-
ther aid we have been unable to give.

Frances W. Harper and Catharine Rollins, two colored teach-
érs, gave interesting statements of their experience in Kentucky, —
Tennessee, South Carolina, &c. At a school in Charleston,
where one of them has been teaching without compensation, the
_ pupils were too degraded and wretched to be received into other _
schools. Pecuniary assistance was desired to build a school-
house. Although the meeting sympathized with the labor, the
state of the finances prevented the extension of aid.

Ata meeting of the Association held 11th mo. 6th, a rete 3 ;
27 , Lie

addressed to a member of this Association by Louisa M. E. Ricks,
desiring aid from us for her school at Washington,.was read ;
but, not being in a pecuniary condition to assist her, we were
reluctantly compelled to decline. ,

Among the welcome contributions which have encouraged us
by their timely reception, were a valuable package of garden
seeds from Clayton B. Rogers, well suited to the wants of the
freedmen ; and from the Baptist Publication Society, through B.
Griffith, 150 Testaments, and 500 copies of the “* Litile Reaper,”
a monthly publication which is regularly received by mail. We _
have also received from ‘“ Friends Association for the Relief of
Colored Freedmen,” per Richard Cadbury, a ee lot of tracts,
hymns, &c.

Our teachers, in ste late letters, speak in an " afoatiodals :
manner of their appreciation of their loss in the death of our
friend James Mott, whose interest and sympathy for them, in
their labors and privations, had ever been warm and active, and
ofttimes expressed in words of parental tenderness.

We insert an extract from one of these:

‘<T learn from the papers, as well as by private correspondence,
of the death of our friend James Mott. A shade of sadness has
rested upon my spirit ever since I received the intelligence; for
I know there are many who feel deeply the loss of this pure, good
man. ‘The cause of justice and humanity has certainly lost a
true friend. As I write, my thoughts wander back to the last
evening spent in Philadelphia, in company with'James and
Lucretia Mott, and to their words of kindly counsel and en-
couragement ; as I listened to these, my strength seemed renewed
for the work in which I was engaged, A bright, shining light
has indeed disappeared from amongst us; but the warmth and
comfort which it dispensed, while here on earth, will long be re-
membered.”’

We also believe it due from us to express our estimation of
the services and character of our friend by appending the follow-
ing minute, adopted at a meeting of “ Friends’ Association for
the Aid and Elevation of the Freedmen,”’ held in Race Street
Meeting-house, 3d mo. 18th: |

‘¢This Association has experienced a deep sense ét bereave-

ment in the death of our beloved friend James Mott, which
occurred on the 26th day of First month, 1868, in the 80th year
28

of his age, and we believe it right to record our estimate of the
loss we have sustained. His long mercantile career was marked by
the strictest integrity and justice ; and in early life he relinquished
a lucrative business, in consequence of its conflicting with his
conscientious scruples in reference to the produce of slave labor.

‘* Although actively employed in business pursuits, he was
never too much immersed in the cares of the world for the
nobler impulses of his heart.to be fully exercised, freely giving,
not only of his pecuniary means, but of his untiring personal
exertions, for the advancement of many of the philanthropic
enterprises that have, for a series of years, claimed the atten-
tion of the benevolent.

‘‘ Foremost among these, with him, were the interests of the
oppressed and down-trodden, both before and since the abolition
of slavery. . His sympathy with our teachers, in their isolated
and tried positions among the freedmen, was a prominent feature;
and his labors with us, in‘ this Association, can scarcely be esti-
mated. | |

‘‘With advancing age he relaxed not his wonted activity
therein, but his earnestness and zeal seemed rather to increase
with his years. He attended several public meetings within a
few days of his death; participating in their business, and in-
fusing life into their proceedings by his appropriate suggestions.

** Though remarkably free from obtruding his views, his well-
matured counsels were always valuable; and the presence of
himself and his beloved wife greatly encouraged their associates,
—strengthening and inspiring them to perseverance in every
good work. He Le

“His bright example as a Christian, his blameless life, and —
his consistent walking as a member of our religious Society, to
which he was ardently attached, will long be treasured by many
of its younger members, who-have been accustomed to look up
to him as a true ‘ Father in Isrdel.’ ”’

The foregoing account of our labors for the past year, we hope
may serve as an incentive to Friends generally to aid us more
effectually in this work of educating the Freedmen. We feel that
it is important not only to continue the schools now under our
care, but, if possible, to respond to some of the urgent appeals
from: other localities. The liberality of those interested in the
cause must determine our course, and to all such we would
put the question—Shall we discontinue the schools which are |
now under our care, for want of funds, and dismiss the six hun- _
dred children whom we have been teaching ? |
29

By way of example we append an extract from a letter from
one who frequently forwards contributions to this Association :—

‘‘T have not been able to attend to any business within the —
last two months; not even to the cause that is nearest to my
heart,—that of relieving the poor and destitute. I have made
but little use of my means in that way; this has been a concern
tome. I now desire to place in thy hands #20, for the benefit
of the schools in the South.”’

Will not our Friends generally feel constrained to go and do
likewise ? .
JacoB W. ELLIs,

ecretaries.
ANNIE COOPER, ks

5th mo. Ist, 1868.

Report of Henry M. Larne, Treasurer.

 

 

1867.
Sth mo. 1. To Balance on hand... .....cececeseccerscseseees Pikesuaere cis ena $3022 89
Cash received from sundry meetings......... $2903 48
oe i uf s¢  individuals...... 591 20
ig ee “ U.S., (return of fare).. 50 00 3544 68
$6567 57
: | On."
By cash paid Teachers ...... te ee basdesecn fon nawenl $5202 00
rf Cb FOE BOOKB agence ss neceesece oo- cee pucotvers 213 65
tf ‘“ fare of Teachers......+ a abakabvedeadus 145 30
: 6 School expenses.....0e cecccecscsesees 105 87
t “. for Annual Report...... csoceseesesee ccdee Bo
5 6" fOr, BROS. sexes sense Nvguetadiedie danabaorn 37 80
A 66 for Freight ......ceccscscscsesssess sooeee 24 50
1868. ie ‘ for sundry expenses........ Peiisscee  BO.Oe
5th mo. 1. By balance on hand ........+-++++ pbatsdhiepenkal dpeuke 675 84
| $6567 57
A sum inadequate to meet engagements with our teachers for the balance of
the term. : to
. , Henry M. Larne, Treasurer.
Phila , 5th mo., 1st, 1868. No. 30 N. Third St. -

Having examined the foregoing account, we find it correct, showing the

balance on hand of $675.84.
EpWARD PaRRISH, \ A hi thas

Phila , 4th mo. 30th, 1868. Wa. Canby BIDDLE,
30

ANNUAL REPORT OF TREASURER.

From Friends of—

© Philadelphia............. $1673

Hy DMP eae Gigs eee
ec) Wilmington, Det../,).05 135
oS LR DAR eee cout 116
ey: AL OPGMAI . canksnebuuakonn e188
CORO Sela u ee
Ce TE POMC, Na Matunshens sake 76
‘¢ Solebury........ i venen eur 70
Oh Cpe OOS Sli Lo «- 68
rect. A Da PEOM ii ver atnaenen es, 66
4 SABRE, idetciu  Wiwhenee 65
“tO OMOLO Sees uiG 61
a 6.) Be DATES cvs daswaies sieaiiws 40
Eee ACRE ORY UCU Cut eee
Fo PDI e Creek fo cctsas OO
‘‘  UpperGreenwich, NJ. 30
Fk WA AMA EOP A leas whiees ole 24
whe BN NOCE deciles vob keen 24
‘¢ Alloway Creek, N. J... 21
RAS COO CER DOL icetevasuececod 17
es CCK. DBL. cise sses 11
Ms) WOON. Wabueiand deecun 10
AR! SEONG LAWH IN, We canugan'e 10
¢' Deerfield, Ohio.....0... prt eo
A ah Liberty, lowa.i.* 30
* FT ter Der Ba Th Na desbe 4
Bucks County, race) 20
oi Wilmington, Del... 15
i Upper Greenwich,
Pei abso ates Va cbae bce 2
66 per J.W.T., Radnor 10
Soldiers Aid of Falls, Pa...... 5
Estate of Joseph D. Thurston 50
A. R. Paul’s School, Salem,
Pe Pe enindsans osobdnlvenooiuena 8
Estate of Abby Goodwin, Sa-
POR Uw a doebaratgens is easues qed OO

.*

Mary D. Brown, Phila. ...... ‘
Sarah L. Crozier, Upland, Pa.
Emma Crozier, Lt ae
SE. MAGI aicsvese cs locates
Thomas B. Longstreth.........

‘Bast Jordan Tak cs le :

cbt ig EO OMONEE, LU biepoera seus
PR idee
R. A. S., Ss aos
C. Somers & Son, Phila........
Sarah C. Park, Camden, N. we
Martha W. Carman, M
W. Attleborough, Pa...........
R. K. & G.W. C., Byberry, Pa..
Job Bishop, Camden, N. J....
Jane Hall, West Chester, Pa..
K., Lower Makefield, Pa...... ,
Rachal Haines, Fallston, Md.
Stephen Masher, West Liber-
UP, OW Ms isis wih ph ivdnkdn iek betel

+e eeeeeee? cese8

Thomas Wooduutt, Bichwonn .
12368

IAQ saver eivdcasty kul iecoeieds
Catharine ne, Fort itis
LOW Sis ois bUnu es cok uaa
Susan Pusey, Maiden Creek,
Ph dnc sie Nraeveviacvenvauns dacdieued
H. P. Dare, Lower Greenwich
Wiislsiulinvbuteeeantes: acdubseasepe
John Anthony, Genesee Grove
BEL is sy seisiusbawa seems Meitanue caves

Elizabeth Brown ‘Upper Green-

WICH. INE Ui tala doutuulctacsewauses
N. & E. ' Potter, Battle Creek,
WOMIC icbis Peuts co eviacueynecuee &
Elisha Wells, Concord, Ohio.

 

Fare returned by U. es Se

25
25
25
25
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10
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31

 

Receipts of Clothing from 5th mo., 1867, to oth mo., 1868.

ADDS W heaton. .......0csccrcsoecescivece sucess 500 Illustrated Papers.
Pennsylvania Bible Society ......00- sseee« 25 Testaments. ,
Friends’ Bible Society ......00 | cscses eevee + 200 Bibles and Testaments.
Pe MMU OUPY « iincess cerasadensuenenbsy cauaunes . ‘ British Workman”; tracts.
WACO BL. MILIS, soceciaySinpesabs'nn kemmpcibeunbs Clothing.
Fee WEES hve cs) a cuseracnusrcbuvabanasben Clothing.
Makeficla Pa. jc vecciisdinsbeaineessdededceas ‘Bag of Books, &c.
Pianeta yeaah bocce sebenuaeas aie Two boxes Clothing, &c.
Oy Be DBT vn nciss nc aticnta cakes ecnsnsaspasoneake . Clothing.
Priscilla Roberts, Abington, Pa.......... Clothing.
Mary Lawrence ...... Waukee Hh od chub anes Coupee , Books.
Baptist Publication Society ivievvaauinens . 500 ‘* Little Reapers ;’’ monthly.
EY DiOUPREROSD |v camchcdisegansncarescunanecde Books.
BO, Cobbs cue acsoacens aides cuskeasemer bana # Clothing.
oF) WN a SROAAIE <Ss ah bweniabiodsnat eousauahennean enn Clothing. .
Friends’ Assoc. for relief of Col. Freed... 6,000 Hymns, Tracts, &c.
Kennett Freedmen Association............ 2 boxes Ulothing, Books, &c.
EREDOWD cia vennad de sud enahed nas banenerndn ‘eeue, DECAS.
TW) SRRODE sc sci enseidemidecnsanvesined dante Clothing.
Friends of Horsham............. thas scabiaape Clothing.
WED. Ovcreieanctdunsheldenbaveune :Savavebaun one Illustrated Papers.
ETS AO a DA aay Wis ce ceshclien deen butane Clothing.
Rachel W. TOWNSEOG ..4) co ceivence: accush cas Clothing. |
Jane Hall..... -..00 SEO AE rrpU epee cat hr 3 bbls. Clothing.
Mary, Bean sesisn.h ess beinecnennonsonncnussbivent 1 bbl. Sundries.
Mary Browning, Camden, N. J........... . Shoes.

i Mope, Owen Ned sinsc: scdosciscccens ssnpbacen Clothing.
George T. Atkinson, ING Di cic cas pendants 1 box Clothing.
Annie Wright, \% ork): Pa. isivecessse inchs 1 box Clothing.
ear e hs TG N,. basen sounde rien sesh odtae ce 1 valise Clothing.
Unknown, Christiana, Pa .........2.. e000 1 Box.
BUC OR opine aise enietink suas foe inane 1 bundle Clothing.
Oy By HO RORR os siiv eres Cannnnie peanpekeredees 1,000 papers of Seeds.
Kennett Aid Society........... sccouavecna set 1 box Clothing.
DERRY SCAM Oa iste d si cesehe ose sue: bedcdwmen taser Muslin.
BOWEr a DATNOR, fo nnsicxonascaannesenieetinnen Books.
SDENCEF RODETIES syivsceay is os ded cnnnts enoews Dry Goods. |
Ws Os BAGG Gi i canicenedensaetatehnasaye Siesne Trimmings.
Hi Go Lonmetrethy cisucses svccieec:  ksteens > 1 PIS,
FESO, 20s ds a svicsnedaedee Cpoeeknentaaes 1 bag Books. .
MOTO MO OGTOLE iiiccii cusvdedas shseies Porterage during the year.
Female Anti-Slavery Society.. .... uleaws Papers to Teachers,
TALIG: ATCC. iovasaisnacresr aversbecscceves houses Books, Toys, &c.
Frichda’ (ntelligencerts cic sscecoutsebaccouss Papers to Teachers.
Baptist Publication Society................ .150 Testaments.

Received at Larne & Macinnis’, 30 North Third Street.
Philadelphia, Fifth mo. \st, 1868,
Mba He _
eR yor
% Oar ;
5 fi
e | 32

of Forwarding Committee from Fifth month, 1867, to

Report
Fifth month, 1868.
No. 118. 1 box Books, &c......... eee a won Mary K. Brosius, Vienna, Va.
21D. 2 BOX BOOKS. vgiccnvecsunases> Sarah A. Steer, Waterford, Va.
120. 4 box Books, QC. ...c-cs0s naeears S. M. Ely; Lewensville, Va.
LZ Lid OR BOOKS co .evstnercsnkaed sopacs Frances E. Gauze, Herndon, Va.
B22. 2: DDL Clothin gos stsee ceseseney Frances E. Gauze, Hernden, Va,
123. 1 bbl. Clothing, Books, &c....C. Thomas, Leesburg, Va.

. 1 bbl. Clothing and Books....S. A. Steer, Waterford, Va.
. 1 bbl. Clothing and Books....S. M. Ely, Lewensville, Va.

126. 1 bbl. Clothing, Books, &c....P. Heald, Falls Church, Va.
127. 1 bbl Dry Goods........4. i epaas C. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.
128.. 1. bbl. Books, &c......:,.4 evewess C. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.
129.1 DG. BOOKS, BC...) sscaceavccses Mary K. Brosius, Manassas, Va.
130.0 DBs SuUuGriOs,...36.c0.cueo ee ..Kate E. Hall, Vienna, Va.

131. 1 package Seeds, &c .........00. Capt. Smith, Leesburg, Va.

. 1 bbl. Clothing and Books....Sallie E. Lloyd, Woodlawn.

133. 1 bbl. Books and Clothing....Isaiah Hankinson, Va.
134. 1 package Books and Slates...H. K. Painter, Painters, Va.
136.1 bbl. Clothing, &c..'...00....0. ©. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, 8. C.
-136. 1 package Books and Papers.L. D. Crump, Falls Church, Va.
137. 1 bbl. Clothing...................0. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.
a LOB. DOX BOOKS, Cor... sen cscuesnes ©. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.
139. 1 bbl. Clothing......... cageasiwae P, Heald, Falls Church, Va.
140. 1 bbl. Clothing....,..+....- .--. P. Heald, Falls Church, Va.
141. l bbl. Seeds, &..........0008 .-+»P. Heald, Falls Church, Va.
142. 1 bbl. Clothing......... pelecavers D. K. Smith, Alexandria, Va. -
143. | bbl. Seeds, &c....... ieareiane . Kate E. Hall, Vienna, Va.
144. 1 bbl. Books, Seeds, &c........ Mary McBride, Fairfax 0. H., Va. .
145. 1 box Sundries...... Tabdehaaphine S. A. Cadwallader, Bladensburg, Md.
146. 1 bbl. Muslins, &c...............0. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, 8. C.
147. 1 bbl. Sundries............e000e0e0. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.
$450 2 Dok: Clothing is scdeieetca ote Josephine 8. Griffin, Washington, D.C.
149. 1 box Sundries......... b ehenaine -Capt. Schaeffer, Christiansburg, Va.
150. 1 package Sundries....... ...eeesCornelia Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.

Altogether 33 packages containing clothing, dry goods, books, seeds, &c.
Philadelphia, 5th mo, 1st, 1868.
 

| >» FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT |

OF THE

FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION

OF

PHILADELPHIA

FOR THE

 

Aid and Elevation af the Frecdmen.

PHILADELPHIA:
MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS,
243 Arch Street.

1869,

 

 

 
FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION

OF

PHILADELPHIA

FOR THE

Aid and Eledation of the Hrecdmen.

PHILADELPHIA:
MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS,
243 Arch Street.

1869,
OFFICERS.

SECRETARIES,

JACOB M. ELLIS,

325 Walnut St., Phila.
ANNIE COOPER,

1733 Filbert St.

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY,

ELLEN M. CHILDS,
634 Race St.

TREASURER,

HENRY M. LAING,
30 North Third St.

STANDING COMMITTEES.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE,

Jacos M. Ettis, Epita W. ATLEE, Marearet A. Griscom,
Lypia GILLINGHAM, Margaret Dopeson, Jos. M. Truman, JR.,
ALFRED H. Love, Harriet E. Stockuey, Louisa J. Roperts.

PURCHASING COMMITTEE,

EuizaBETH J. FERRIS, Franxuin 8. Witson, ANNIE BIDDLE,
Marearet S. ParrisH.

FORWARDING COMMITTEE,

Gro. W. Rozszinys, Mary Suaw, Henry M. Laine.

COLLECTING COMMITTEE,

Saran K. Gruuinanam, 4H. M. Larva, A. H. Loves,

Wy. C. Brippie, Anna M. Cuinps, Luxens WEBSTER,
EpMUND WEBSTER Lovisa J. Rozperts, Samu, S. Asu,
Cuas. Evans, Emity H. Arxinson, Mary H. Newsoip,
Race, M. Townsenp, Ditiwyn Parrisu, W. J. Giuuinenam,
Jacos M. Ettis, T. E. Cuapman, Morpecal Buzsy,
Wu. Heacock, © Anna SHOEMAKER, Tuos. GARRIGUES.

AUDITORS,

EpWaARD PagrisH, Cuas. Tuomas.
REPORT.

 

In presenting the Fifth Annual Report of Friends’ Associa-
tion for the Aid and Elevation of the Freedmen, we wouid re-
mark that, owing to the want of funds, our field of labor has
been greatly limited; but our interest in the cause has not
abated.

In entering upon this year’s labor, it was concluded to devote
our efforts exclusively to the education of the people.

With an exhausted treasury, early in the fall, in answer to
the earnest appeals of the colored people, we opened the follow-
ing schools, in the faith that Friends would contribute to their
support:

Mary McBride, Fairfax C. H., Fairfax Co., Va.

Kate E. Hall, Vienna, 66 662 eG
Ida Brinkerhoff, Herndon, “ 6
Helen A. Hurly, Gum Spring, “ ae Cee
Sallie E. Loyd, Woodlawn, Cer CGT Oe
Harriet Jenkins, Falls Church, od 6 ae
B. F. Grant, Centreville, “ 665051, 48
Sarah A. Steer, Waterford, Louden Co.,  “
Jennie Speer Manassas, P. William “ =
Cornelia ack, Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.
Fanny E. Gauze, “ “ “ ‘“
Lizzie E. Heacock, < “ 7
Isabella Lenair, se ‘6 ‘6 ‘6

In the autumn, when the labors of the Asscciation where re-
sumed for the winter, an appeal was prepared and sent to each
of the Monthly and Preparative Meetings, pressing upon Friends
the necessity of pecuniary aid, and asking if ‘ the six hundred
aspirants after knowledge, who earnestly entreat for an oppor-
4

tunity to acquire it, shali be dismissed without the mental food
they so earnestly crave.’’ Although this appeal met with less
response than we had hoped, yet the continued liberality of a
few has enabled us to continue the good work commenced in
faith, and to keep all of the schools open during the season.

Extracts from letters written by the teachers show that their
interest continues unabated, and though they are obliged to
suffer many privations, and are surrounded by difficulties which
would often seem insurmountable to those accustomed to ease
and self-indulgence, they still continue earnest and unwearied
in their efforts for the elevation and improvement of this ignorant
and long-suffering people.

In addition to their regular school duties, several of the
teachers have large First-day and night schools, for those who
are unable to attend during the day. .

Lrom Catharine E. Hall, Vienna, Va., Nov. 24, 1868.

“Thy letter and the Reports were duly received. I am glad

to say that my school-house is at length completed, and is as

comfortable as I could desire. It has a new shingle roof, is

plastered, ceiling and all; and with new desks, a good stove and

my twenty-six pupils, I anticipate a real good, comfortable time
this winter.

“Tt is useless to ask even the colored people here to contribute
anything towards the support of their school; for they cannot
pay for the house. Major Hines has given them the land, and
furnished the money to finish it; that is, what the sum given by
Colonel Lee would not do; and indeed if it had not been for his
persistent efforts, nothing would have been done at all. They
are very poor and easily discouraged, and I think sometimes it
is hard work to keep up the interest among the parents. The
children are bright and glad to come to school, and there is much
to hope from them.”

From Mary McBride, Fairfax C. H., Va., 11th month 21st,
1868.

‘‘ expect workmen will be at the school-house next week re-
pairing it for the winter; the Bureau sent fifty dollars to Lieut.
Chase for that purpose. Mr. Sagar has kindly consented to let
us have the land another year, as it is the most convenient site,
both for teacher and scholars. I will take advantage of the
holiday, by going to Washington to have my eye operated upon;
it does not get any better ; I am afraid it is worse. I wear greén

.

 
5 2
spectacles most of the time. I did’not go to Quarterly Meet-
ing; I did not like to leave school. I*will endeavor to answer:
your questions as minutely as possible. .

**T began school 7th of Ninth month with twenty odd scholars,
I now have thirty-one. The colored people own the scool-house.
I regret to say no Sunday schools; I live so far, and the weather
is generally very unfavorable; besides the colored people have
preaching in the building almost every First-day ; hence our
First-day school has been discontinued.

The Standard and Intelligencer are received and frequently
distributed among those who can read. No money has been
collected and I am afraid cannot be. There is a colored Sab-
‘bath school within three or four miles of the C. H.; I think they
are furnished with books.

‘| hope the above will prove satisfactory. Will you please
tell me if my school closes a month earlier on account of begin-

ning in Ninth month? I hope not; I would like to continue as
long as the others do.”’

From Jennie Speer, Manassas, Va., 11th month 23d, 1868.

Yours of the 19th inst. was duly received, and I thank you
heartily for your kind offer to furnish books. You should have
seen the happy faces that greeted the announcement in school.
Some of the children furnish their own books, but there are
many who can scarcely clothe their children sufficiently to send
them to school, since the cold weather set in. The school is
improving slowly in numbers, and I can see that they are learn-
ing quite fast. I have been teaching under great disadvantages
because of the scarcity of books, and feel very much encouraged
at the prospect.

‘*¢ 1 commenced school on the 5th of October with ten scholars,
and have twenty-five on roll now. The Freeemen own the
school-house. I have a Sabbath school, and have no books but
a few Testaments; would like to have some more Bibles or
Testaments, at least a dozen; one and a half or two dozen
** Child’s Scripture Question Books,” some fancy tickets, merit
marks and other kind of books, such as good story books from
Bible characters, or any pretty stories with a good moral, easily
read and understood. - Some singing books, of any kind, would
be acceptable, but ean get along without them.

**T have received the Friends’ Intelligencer and Tribune but
not the Standard, and give them to the children when through
with them. I have received pay to Ist of First month, and will.
_ then report what I get from the Freedmen; hoping that they

may raise something by the 1st of Seventh month worth report-

ing.
6

“T heard from M. McBride this morning, and am very sorry
to hear that she is no better, and expects to have her eye
operated upon. I do not think of any more “ wants,’ and sup-
pose you will think I have mentioned enough, so will stop. I

want to get up a ‘Merry Christmas ’’ among the children, if
possible,”

From Cornelia Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C., Nov. 26th, 1868.

“‘T received thy letter with the bill of lading, which has been
fulfilled by the receipt of all the things in good order. The
Children’s Friend is received regularly ; the Intelligencer has not
come to hand yet, but I feel assured it will. I suppose thee
has heard, through Ellen, that I found our present Bureau
Officer (Major Danilson) with orders to rent the same building
immediately upon our return, which has been done; the rent is
down now, having only twenty dollars per month to pay. It is
all done without any care or trouble of mine, which is very nice.
The landlord has also bargained to paint and whitewash the
building. Being so thankful that all my interests have been so
carefully watched in my absence, I feel no cause to complain.
The library is perfectly beautiful. We are going to commence
our school in good earnest. Fanny seems to have good taste
about such undertakings, and Lizzie is willing to co-operate in
every thing that is for good; so we get along tip-top. Fanny
has taken the primary school and it is going to bein prime order
soon. Lizzie is one of the kindest of teachers, and I feel sure
she will succeed admirably with these people. Our schools are
in full operation and already have 85 scholars. Freight is in-
deed low; Iam going to write to several people I know, and
see if some more barrels cannot be sent before Christmas time.
I am very glad to be back, and have been exceedingly busy
with mind and body since our return. The school has received
its permanent name; called after the children; it cannot be
changed now, as I shall report its name on the next Report that
goes into the Bureau. One thing more I must tell thee; there
was a large white school opposite to ours on our return, but after —
we opened they moved away; they looked so mournful, their
prejudice driving them down the street. They also took their
pump handle with them, as we had carried a few pails of water
fromthere. Thank Sarah Rogers for her contribution. Fanny
would like some of those Scripture Question Books put into the
next box; and the Union Primers are always acceptable.” _

Through the kindness of a few friends, the teachers had the

pleasure of gladdening the hearts of the children at Christmas —
time with some appropriate and useful presents; such as scarfs,
7

gloves, handkerchiefs, knives, scissors, &c. The funds of the
Association were not used for their purchase ; private contribu-
tions having been made for that special purpose.

The following extracts from letters show how highly they were
appreciated :

Sarah Ann Steers writes from Waterford, Va., under date of
Twelth month 30.

“T enclose my School Report for this month, and although I
have two more pupils on my list, the average attendance is less
than that of last month, owing to inclement weather. The win-
ter has been unusually severe, with a great deal of snow, which
prevented those coming regularly who have a long distance to
walk. The members of my Sewing Class have been very indus-
trious, and some of the girls have learned to sew very well. I
told them when I commenced school last fall, I wanted to have
all the sewing (twenty-two garments) finished by Christmas.
This the sixteen girls have accomplished ; only sewing one after-
noon in the week, until the last two weeks, when I found they
would not get through with it, and allowed them two afternoons.
I distributed these articles on Christmas eve, together with the
contents of the box sent by our Philadelphia Friends. The
children were delighted with them, and send many thanks to.
you for your kind remembrance of them.

“The books for the Library are a very welcome gift, as are
also those for the school, while the map is a perfect treasure.”

It was deemed best to close for the winter the First-day
school at this point, partly on account of the difficulty in getting
about during inclement weather. The teacher described the
closing exercises,’ which were held on Christmas day, as consist-
ing of “reading from the Testament, examination in the Cate-
chism, and reciting some very beautiful and appropriate Hymns
by the children. After they were through, they had a long
table set and spread with an abundance of cake and confec-
tionery, contributed by the parents and friends of the scholars.
All seemed to enjoy the day; and the older ones said to me—
how much more profitable it was to meet and spend their Christ-
mas in that way than to be idly strolling about, as they used to
do. I gave the Bibles, Testaments, &ec., to the teachers and
- pupils of the school.

‘*T hear favorable accounts of the Temperance Society—
nearly all of the colored people in this neighborhood belong to
8:
it. I still have the forty-five dollars contributed by the freed-
men in aid of our school awaiting your instruction as to its ap-
propriation.”

Mary EF. McBride, at Fairfax Court House, Va., continues to
have a good school, and notwithstanding her suffering from an
affection of her eyes, is still laboring faithfully. She states that
Col. Lee has initiated arrangements for making their ‘* Acad-
emy”’ habitable; (the contemplated repairs have probably been
completed ere this;) and any one who has seen what may well
be termed the ‘‘ ¢mpromptu”’ school-houses, too often found in
the South, can readily comprehend how much they need this
kind of attention. She also gives us the gratifying information
that Mr. Sagar, the owner of the land on which the school-
house stands, has kindly given us the use of it for another year
or more.

For this and past favors received from him, the Association,
and doubtless the Freedmen, who are most intimately interested,
feel very grateful, and the more so, knowing, as some of us do,
the sacrifices necessarily accompanying the act. She further
alludes to a visit from a “ Captain commissioned by Gen. How-
ard to report concerning schools in this county. He spent
nearly all day with us, and was very much gratified. He thought
(and so did I) that my little ones passed a very creditable exami-
nation. On Christmas day the children were delighted, and
happier than on any previous occasion, judging from their re-
marks and actions. They all told me to thank their kind friends

for their trouble and expense.”’ -

Frances E. Gauze, haying charge of our Primary School at
Mt. Pleasant, writes : |

‘‘ My school is increasing, now averaging sixty-eight in daily
attendance. ‘There are several large boys who can only come
through the winter, and I feel anxious to give them every chance.
Cornelia has one of her large girls to assist me, and it keeps us
both busy to get through with the exercises. My assistant ex-
hibits considerable proficiency in teaching, and I would suggest
whether some little remuneration’ for her services would not be
an incentive for her to prepare herself for a teacher.

“ T have a number of large boys and girls who come five miles
togschool, and there are others who go to the expense of board-

-
‘9

ing their children in the village, that they may avail themselves
of our school. It is certainly very important these should re-
ceive good attention. One man came to make application for
the admission of four, saying Ais ‘eyes was dun shut up, and
his children’s eyes was dun shut up, but he wanted his children’s
eyes opened.’ I must say I never had children’s eyes ‘ opened’
sooner than theirs. They did not know the letter A when they
commenced, and in two weeks time they were spelling out of
book, and reading in the Primer! It does my heart good to
see them in such earnest, and appreciating what is being done
for them. In reference to our Christmas festival, if the good
people Worth knew how many hearts were made light by their
beautiful and useful presents, they would feel amply repaid.”

Isadore Brinkerhoff, at Herndon Station, Va., writes:

**T feel an increasing interest in the school, and every day I
ean see the rapid progress of the scholars in all their studies, and
this rapidity is wonderful. When I commenced teaching they
would not ask me any questions ; but now, when I am reading or
talking, if they do not understand all I read or say, they will
not let me proceed until I satisfy them with explanations. I
have encouraged them in this, and many of the questions which
they ask almost puzzle me.

From B. F. Grant, (col’d), Centreville, Va., Dec. 8, 1868.

“T acknowledge with gratitude the great assistance that we
receive of you, hoping that the God of heaven and earth may
bless the work that is committed to your charge. Will try and
inform you of the progress of my school from the 17th of Feb-
ruary, 1868, to the present time. I commenced school on that
day with 12 pupils, and but two children that were able to read,
and to-day, from 25 pupils there are some 20 of them able to
read some. I have one boy in school who when I commenced
school did not know his alphabet, and to-day he is reading in
the National Second Reader.

{ have one girl who when I commenced school last year
was spelling in Comly’s spelling book, and to dayshe is reading
in Willson’s Third Reader. All that we want is books of the
right kind. The colored people own the school house. We re-
ceived $150 from the Freedman’s Bureau to help build the school
house. |

From Jennie Speer, Manassas, Va., 12th mo. 10th, 1868:

‘Yours of the 5th duly received, and barrel accompanying it.
I wish I could express my gratitude and thanks, and that of the
children, but words seem insufficient ; it will indeed give us a
merry Christmas; there is an abundance for all, and I anticipate |
10

a real festival. We are going to have a Christmas tree, and
speaking, singing, &c., and I shall be happy enough in seeing
their enjoyment. Many of them only know of ‘Christmas
trees’ as some ‘fairie story,’ and are nearly wild with delight.
Several of the children have expressed a desire to contribute
something for the tree, and I told them they might. I am sure
I shall have a very merry and happy Christmas. Some of the
scholars would like to buy the books they use, ‘for their own.’
I told them I would ask you; there are none kept here in the
stores, and Washington seems ‘far away,’ as there are few
opportunities for sending there for them.

“LT receive the Standard and Friends’ Intelligencer now, and
the scholars are always glad to get them when I have read them,
also the Tribune and Press. We are having a library made for
our books, and our sabbath school is getting along nicely. God
bless you all for your kindness in sending us such nice books and

papers.”

From Harriet Jenkins, (Col’d.), Fall’s Church, Va., Dec. 80th,
1868.

“TI write a few lines about the school. You will see by the
report, as it is made out, that the school is enjoying a vacation,
which will last until the fourth of January. I could not induce
the scholars to be satisfied with any less number of holidays.
They seemed to be delighted at the sight of the Christmas tree,
made out of the nice things sent us by the Friends’ of your city.
I am truly thankful we have such friends in reach of us. My
school still increases in numbers, but the attendance is very
irregular ; those who have attended regularly are doing very
well in their studies. The new grammar class is delighted with
the study, and they get on very well. I thank the good people
of Philadelphia for the reading matter sent me every week. I
receive the Friends’ Intelligencer and have become strongly
attached to it, on account of the true Christian principle it sets
forth. I have other papers sent me, both political and religious.
I feel under many obligations for my Christmas present; more
so when I think of it coming from those I have never seen in
my life. Be assured I value it highly.”’

From Jennie Speer, Washington, D. C., Dec. 30th, 1868.

‘I do not know but I should have sent this Report before
this ; but I have not been very well, and have delayed longer -
than I was aware of. :

“* The festival at the school house was very interesting to me,
and all seemed to enjoy it very much. Some of the large boys
got a very pretty cedar tree, reaching to the ceiling, which was
11
nicely decorated with the toys and candies and some wax tapers
which were presented tous. The tree was lighted about seven
o'clock, and I think there were about one hundred persons pre-
sent—parents and friends of the scholars, and a great many
children who are not scholars. I distributed presents to about
60 children; I hardly knew where so many came from; many
of them said they were coming to school after New Year.

“There were no expression of dissatisfaction, but all were
pleased and grateful. Some of our white friends looked in a few
moments and expressed themselves much pleased with the
exercises, and the children were in a state of high glee; and I
have no doubt that it was the ‘ merriest Christmas’ they ever
spent, and they will not soon forget it. ;

‘“‘T hope to find a larger attendance when IJ return and com-
mence the New Year, earnestly hopeful for success and improve-
ment. Thanking you all heartily for your beneficence in my
own and the children’s name,” I remain, Xe.

Mr. Puieasant, S. C., 1st month, 1869,
Friends’ Association for the Aid and Elevation of the Freedmen.

Dear Friends.—I have felt a desire to write you what of in-
terest has transpired in your school here ever since my return,
but until the holidays, time has not been offered. The short
days fly so quickly by that little is accomplished but the regular
school duties.

The school was opened on the 18th of Eleventh month, and
has been steadily increasing in size until the enrolment now
numbers one hundred and fifty-five. The children are making
steady progress in their studies, and very much has been their
reform in conduct. When I remember how much care the recess
used to be to me, for fear in their rude play or in anger they
would injure themselves, and how now they play so peaceably
and kindly together,—this is one way I note a great change.
Since the opening of school this term, but one child has had
even to be spoken to at recess. When they collect in one room
in the morning at the opening exercises, their deportment there
for the large number collected in a small space is remarkable,
so still and attentive to all that is said. On New Year’s day
we celebrated it as being their Emancipation day. One room
was cleared of all the desks and benches, and a large tree was
fixed in the middle. This year we darkened it and lighted the
tree, and the effect was very pleasing to the children. The
candy and small toys graced the tree, and the larger presents
were disposed upon three separate tables, where the children
could choose according to their rank in their class. They were
all assembled around the tree, and repeated the 23d and 100th
12

Psalms and sung “There is a Beautiful World.” We had one
spectator from the North, William Jackson, (a cousin of
Fanny's.) He expressed much pleasure with their prompt reci-
tations. The work of disposing of the presents was accomplished
for all in about twenty minutes, each supplied with a cornucopia
filled with candy, and with a happy heart were soon’ comparing
notes in the yard. I wish all the children who contributed
presents could have seen the delight these children felt. Among
the toys was a‘ grocery store’ that was to be presented to the
boy who knew his tables best. There were so many boys in my
school who felt confident that they could stand that little ordeal,
that the trial had to be given to the boy who had the highest
number of marks during the preceding month, and he was duly
examined, repeating them before two teachers and five scholars,
who felt anxious to see justice done; and the feat was accom-
plished to the satisfaction of all. He said them backwards and
did not make a falter or mistake. We asked him if he did not
think he would be embarrassed saying them before two teachers
and five critical scholars? He said no, he could say them any-
where, or anyhow. Such certain knowledge as that, I told him,
was always useful. He walked away with his ‘ grocery store ”
very triumphantly. - The presents were all substantial, and gen-
eral satisfaction seemed to pervade all their minds. We have an
interesting First-day school. I think there were about fifty
present to-day ; being three teachers this year, with the help of
one colored teacher we can instruct them separately, and hope
to make some good impressions. I would be very glad to have
a set of the Question books prepared by Jane Johnson, for the
use of these children, they seem so much more suitable than most
of the publications of the kind. As the weather becomes more
settled the First-day school will be larger. There is one influ-
ence that always detains them from attending,—they think they
must be dressed differently to appear on First-day. I do not
know that they are different from the rest of humanity in this
respect, but I have tried very hard to instil in their minds, if
they are clean all other considerations will be laid aside; but
argument falls powerless. The sewing school is doing so much
towards supplying their most pressing wants, that need of nice,
neat sacques will soon not be a want among them. The sewing
school is-carried on successfully now with the aid of four colored
dressmakers, who render efficient aid. Lizzie Heacock and my-
self take the last hour on Sixth-day afternoon to devote to sew-
ing, while Fanny Gause takes the boys into a drawing class. I
think there have been as many as fifty sacques made since va-
cation, and it is a great relief to the teacher to have some of
13

their regs removed from view. Some very liberal donations
have been made to this enterprise, and it has always been an
interesting part of the school to me, and I hope benevolence will
prevail to an extent sufficient to keep it in operation during the
year. The children who come to school as steadily as we oblige
them to (never missing five days in the month) cannot earn their
own living, much less clothe themselves, and their parents have
a hard enough time to support them while they are attending
school. They have to make the effort to make the garment ia
the sewing school, and that seems to me better than to give them
the garment already made. The grown people are having all
kinds of experience now, incident to their condition of ignorance
and their transition state. They still cling tothe idea of ob-
taining land, and many of them have struggled along and paid
as much as one hundred dollars upon certain tracts, and the
owner has given them imperfect titles, or in many cases become
bankrupt, and could give none. And when they have money,
they fear to put it anywhere to draw interest, they have so little
confidence in the white people, and say they cannot read or
write, and therefore fear to let the money out of their own pos-
session. One old woman told me she had had fifty dollars for
eight years, but did not want to lend it for fear she would lose
it. I tried to explain to her how she could obtain interest, but
she said it would do for them that could read and write, but it
would not do for her. All she said she was willing to do was to
buy a piece of ground with the money to leave to her daughter.
Although nearly all the planters about here are so poor they
-can hardly get the necessaries of life, they will not part with
their land to the colored people; they are so afraid of breaking
down that caste that is so precious to them. ‘The difference be-
tween the land owner anda the cultivators of the soil is so great,
that to mingle the two, which would so soon make prosperity
here, is what is so obnoxious to them. ‘This prejudice must give
way in time, but nothing but the pangs of hunger will ever
bring these Southern people to it. They have got this much of
their lesson learned, to be willing to dispose of some of their
vast tracts of land to Northern men coming here desiring to
plant, so as to retain and be able to cultivate on the old plan a
small part of these plantations. Poverty exists to a discouraging
extent among both white and black, owing to the failure of the
crop for two years past. The colored people have the advantage,
however, as they are willing to work; but of course they are
very ignorant and lack management, and have much suffering to
endure. Still, when we contrast their present with their past,
then their destiny is glorious: and there is so much promise in
14

the children. For some of the brightest minds in our school
their future seems a good thing, and to all there is such a steady
improvement. If there only could be plenty of schools spread
through the South, so as to uproot the dense ignorance that per-
vades all minds, reconstruction would then be commenced at the
foundation, for without ignorance the South could never have
kept the war going on as long as it did. We have kept a night
school this winter, although it is questionable whether a teacher
ought to expend so much mental energy, thus depriving the day
school of part of her power; but Lizzie Heacock being new, and
zealous to do all she could, it has been kept in operation so far.
The tax of ten cents has been exacted of our scholars every
month so far, and in some instances it is cheerfully paid. That
amount supplies the school with suitable books, and after the
wants are met in that direction we shall endeavor to liquidate
salary. Ifa crop is raised here another year the tax should be
increased, but I do feel that it should not be until then. One
of the scholars in my school has to assist Fanny in hers all the
time, as her school numbers over seventy pupils. If you would
feel like encouraging her to do well by a little compensation, I
would be glad, for she has to work hard teaching and endeavor-
ing to keep up with her classes. We are at the end of our ca-
pacity in taking in scholars, even with this assistant. We now
take the name and residence of the child, and wait for some one
to be delinquent in attendance, and dismiss the delinquent and
take in the newscholar. It seems to me this school might be
extended ad infinitum, as scholars seem to increase daily, so
many are boarding their children within walking distance of the
school. It is very encouraging to the teacher to see such un-
abated zeal manifested, and should incite to earnest labor for
the good of the children so implicitly entrusted to their care. I
enjoy my school more every day, as they develope and take an
interest in new studies. I have.several scholars who seem much
interested in Physiology. The library sent to them is very
beneficial : some of the children in First-day school to-day could.
repeat the substance of the whole book lent to them; it will
create in them such good taste in reading to be surrounded with
such nice books and papers. I have again to invite some or all
of you to come and visit this school. Thanking all for your con- |
tinued interest in the welfare of the “school,” and your practi-
cal sympathy in all my enterprises connected with it,
Iam sincerely your friend,
CorNELIA Hancock,
Charleston, S. C.
15

From one of our old Teachers, Caroline Thomas, Lincoln, Loudon
Co., Va., 12th month 8th, 1868.

*‘ Tt seems so natural and withal so pleasant to address thee,
bringing fresh to my mind the old days in Leesburg. I some-
times feel that I am not as happy now as in times past, notwith-
standing the pleasant society which I am permitted to enjoy in
this place; and a more congenial home among strangers one
does not often meet with; for the lady who is my hostess is an
ex school marm—one who taught the school which I am now —
teaching, and one who is alive, heart and soul, in the cause of
Right and Justice. Her husband, Bernard T. Janney, has
rented Spring Dale, and is teaching a school for white children.
Thus far all is pleasant ; but it is the size of my school I protest
against. I have but sixteen pupils at present, but they all tell
me I shall have a house full-after Christmas, most of them men.
Here the children have to walk so far; from 2 to 2} and 38
miles, and the roads are very bad during the winter, and always
after a rain or snow. I have not the same opportunity of visit- -
ing the colored people in their homes, as that I had in Leesburg,
the same difficulties attending—the bad roads. All that I have
met with are so kind and seem very glad to know I am going to
teach them this winter. They had the school-house nicely
decorated with evergreens for my reception, and it looked real
bright and cheerful when I arrived there. On my way down, in
passing through Leesburg, I saw several of my old scholars, my
_ ‘little Sicily among the rest. They had learned in some way
that I was coming, and they came tothe depot to meet me; I can-
not tell thee how glad I was to see them. 1 also met Capt. Smith
there, who informed me that he had been staying some time in
the place, superintending the building of the school-house, and
that he thought it would be completed in about two weeks. The
Captain has left the Bureau service, and was at that time about
closing up his business for a final departure.

Since that time I have had not one word from Leesburg, and
fear now, that Captain has left, that all effort will cease in this
matter for the present. Icannot give up this Leesburg; my
heart still yearns for my little flock, left without an earthly
shepherd. I had a letter from our dear friend, Sarah Steer, a
few days ago; she writes very encouragingly. I have not had
the pleasure of seeing her since I returned, but am looking for-
ward with hope; her school now numbers 28 pupils. Sarah
mentioned having just heard from thee, and that the accustomed
box would soon be along, to make the hearts of the little ones
glad. My heart feels lighter since I heard of it, for right well
do I understand what a source of heart warm it is to the teacher
16

as well as pupils. A little circumstance occurred a few even-
ings after 1 became settled in my new home. While we were
sitting conversing, we were surprised with voices singing in the
passage just outside the parlor door; we instantly e2ased talking
and listened to one of the most beautiful hymns I ever heard,
commencing * We are on the ocean sailing.” When the voices
ceased we stepped to the door, and found several of the colored
people assembled to serenade us. It seems they had entered
through the servants’ apartments, taken off their shoes and as-
cended the stairs thus quietly, and we knew nothing of their
presence till the music burst upon us so solemnly and:so sweet
ly. I felt very deeply this tribute of love to their teachers.
Never, while memory lasts, can I forget the sensations of that
moment. Once again they came; again were the chords of har-
mony vibrated ’tween their souls and ours. No one need tell
me these are an ungrateful people, for I have evidence able to
refute any such assertions. ‘The colored people of this neigh-
borhood are said to be in much better circumstances than in
other neighborhoods, but there are some poor among them, very
poor. Those who are able pay 50 cents per month, and the
men who will come this winter are expected to pay $1 per
month. The school is assisted by a few Friends on Long Island ;
one of the principal of whom is Edmund Willets; they pay $25 —
per month now towards its support, and the rest of the salary
is made up by the colored people. The school-house is situated
about half a mile from where I board, and when the walking ise
very bad Bernard sends me, which is very kind in him. We
have had two snows this season, both heavy enough to sleigh on.
I had my first sleigh ride yesterday; another again to-day.
Snow does not last long here; soon thaws, the rays of the sun

shine out so warm.

From Isadore Brinkerhoff, Herndon, Va., Dec. 12, 1868:

‘‘ Your letter was received and read with much pleasure. Iam
always glad to hear from you and all other kind friends. With
the greatest rapidity the pupils are progressing in their studies,
and they take delight in keeping themselves tidy and clean.
This is very encouraging, but there is one great difficulty,—one
so great that with all my efforts I cannot apparently overcome ;
and this great, great difficulty is intemperance. Oh! if you can
devise some plan, some way by which I can reach them, how
thankfully would it be received! Cannot you help me in some
way to promote the cause? I have tried and tried, and could
not see any good arising from my many efforts, and, almost dis- _
couraged, would think nothing would do any good; and then,
ashamed, to work would go again. Had I not a kind and noble
17

father to help and encourage me, I am afraid I would almost
give it up.

““Mrs. Gould has sold her farm, and is going north Christ-
- mas; she sends her regards. The box arrived in safety, and
there could not have been a prettier present sent to myself. I
receive the papers, and derive much pleasure in reading them.”

From our friend Jos. M. Wood, to whom we are much indebt-
ed for oversight of our schools :

‘Woodlawn, 12th mo. 26, 1868.

“On last evening we distributed the Christmas presents sent
by you to the school at this place. The teacher, Sallie E. Lloyd,
was not able to be in attendance, she being confined to her room
with the measels, caught in her school. But my wife and self
acted as masters of ceremonies, and handed out the presents tg
the scholars and to some others, as we thought best. There are
more people living in this neighborhood than at Gum Springs.
At both places we had a general turn-out, both old and young ;
the houses were filled (especially here) to overflowing, and the
interest manifested by all was encouraging. ‘The ceremonies
consisted in reading select pieces from the Band of Hope Review,
Independent, Whittier’s Poems, and some other papers. Appro-
priate remarks were made and anecdotes related by an interested
person present. Christmas trees were finely decorated at both
places with: the presents sent by you. After the things were
distributed, an invitation was given to those present to express
their feelings on the occasion; whereupon an old woman from
the Mount Vernon Estate arose and expressed her thanks to the
Lord for his blessings, and also to the ‘people of the north,’ ‘a
thousand times,’ for the presents and teachers sent ‘down here
for their benefit. Several others followed in remarks to the
same effect, and none were more pleased than were the teachers
in being able to fill their little hearts with gladness once more;
and the same feeling of thankfulness was exhibited by the child-
ren as at Gum Spring; and at the close, a vote of thanks was
passed to you in Philadelphia. One little incident: as I un-
rolled a parcel of papers, among other things came out three
likenesses of Lincoln and one of Grant. Iheld them up; a
dozen voices asked for them; each seemed to have as good a
right as the other. I asked what should be done with them.
‘Put them up to the highest bidder,’ was the unanimous re-
sponse; and after talking the matter over some of them offered
25 cents for two of Lincoln’s pictures, and got them; but Grant
fared differently ; a quite lively scene was presented, and $1.05
was bid by a colored man that had been a soldier under him.

2
18
The third one of Lincoln I presented to the old colored woman
that made the first thankful speech. Before closing, six or eight
oung women recited in concert a Christmas hymn, and then
‘ Rally ‘round the Flag’ was sung by them, aided by others of
the company. ‘The meeting was closed by reading a poem, .
‘Talk to me of Heaven.’ ”
The accompanying is a monthly statement from the difforend

schools:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

if Ow
~ ~~ can
< aioiar
VIRGINIA SCHOOLS. tem ft tak Anas 3/4/38 2 ©
o os > ~~
@)8.)e4.+404 9) ae
2Slelje|ea/|e}sa}1<4 ia
Catherine E.. Hall..... Mus ba Vaca Ganson Bie 40k ZO 66). BO Bote 0} 28
MOY. Be MOESTIG Ss s. ou ang ehas blue in daabones 40} 20] 60} 38] 47) #28} 0] 40.
Ida Brinkerhoff........ DLC IN ar RR ASE OTD gd od» ea ee a Th 722
Sarah E. Lloyd....... Ueikidgde des ouheerae 27| 25) 52| 50] 48} 29} 0} 37
Helen A. Hurley... cit. pdeanes. abs sprees: 22] 082). O4l.. BL. 40). 260 4 Bar ae
MRUNIO MSDEAM cc ocsae wane ums eatckenancocued 14| 29) 43) 40) 43) 35 0} 30
Sarah Ann Steer....... Pee iUcd ecu Tecan 3b} 15] 50] 36] 50; 40 0| 25
Harriett Jenkins. ....... ........ At ae 28} 42| 70] 45) 65] 55} oO} 47
BD ATEN TG iv itis sek cocdh obewiuinconsnhed Sebe coh OP OMG AOb is Bh Dade Bree.
246! 215! 461' 324! 392 272 6' 290
SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOLS. ;
COrnesia: Hancockicw.ssaversesecc opsoavae WAS SU Bh Be ok 0| 30
Elizabeth Heacock............ I UR 17} 28) 45) 45) 45] 46 O| 44
Fannie E. Gauze........ pave ses pur . 26] 24) -50) 50) 50; 25 0} 50
Isabelin Heneir vie seuss ae uae een Us 25) ZO 4B LT ERT 0} 28} 45
Total for South Carolina............ 81} 90] 171} 143] 143} 101; 28} 169
Add Virginia Reet e cee eable enees Sibiees 246| 215) 461] 324! 392) 272 6} 290
327! 305! 632! 467! 535! 373' 34] 459

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To this add a school*in Canton, Miss., taught
by a colored lady and her daughter, sent out at
OUT CXPENSC.......ceseeecerceecrscessscerscersescere eieat es 100*

Making R.MPENG LOGE) OE veh sec sbeadapet bcleabens ... 732 pupils.

Three of the above teachers, and several assistants, are colored.
Since the compilation of the above, a colored assistant in the
school at Fairfax Court House has been promoted to the entire
charge of it, upon the recommendation of the principal teacher
(who resigned), who was satisfied her former pupil was entirely
competent for the position. This point of making efforts to
qualify themselves to be teachers of their own race has been
strongly urged by us, in the belief that it will be one of the
strongest aids in their elevation. .

* No classified report received by us.

.
19
From Cornelia Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C., 1st mo. 14th, 1868.

“T received thy.letter to-day, and it was very satisfactory to
hear we could take in all the aspirants for knowledge; I have
been much troubled at sending so many adrift. As soon as I
received thy letter I communicated the glad tidings to the other
teachers; sent for Mrs. Lenair and had a bargain struck with
her for ten dollars per month; cleared out a room in the house
that stands in the yard, and to-morrow our doors are to be
flung open wide to all who may desire entrance, I also have
paid this evening Anna Lea (who has faithfully assisted Fanny
and studied all the lessons of her class) one dollar per week for
the past four weeks; she was highly delighted I assure thee.
Now this will increase the expense of the school fifteen dollars
per month, but I feel sure the tax that will be raised can defray
part, for w® insist they shall pay ten cents per month, and if
we have 190 scholars that will bring an income of nineteen dol-
lars; some all the time has to be used for the supply of books,
but we try to be as economical as possible with the books and will
save what we can to defray this extra expense. Fanny will be
delighted with her cards, she needs them so much. Whatever
thee has to interest young children send it along, for I have
the youngest children in school for First-day scholars, and the
little papers are a great help. If thee has any of those Union
Primers on hand send them, for they will do just as well for
beginners as what we pay 15 cents for in Charleston. I will
attend to all the receipts in this ; can give no adequate reason
for not attending to it at once, except I have had unusually
much upon my mind of late.

‘“‘ Having two good teachers is giving a fresh impetus to our
school. Lizzie Heacock is a superior teacher, and Fanny is
well known to you and has but one drawback, and that is her
feeble health; she thinks it is better though. I believe having
three teachers makes our living cheaper, and in every way more
agreeable. I have never spent any winter in the South so
pleasant as this, so I am sure this is encouraging. I shall be
glad to receive a-barrel at any time, as Ellen has commissions
for me as well as the things for the school. I hope Mary Beans
has more for the Sewing School. I don’t want that institution
‘to die out, and it takes a great deal to keep it going.

“T think this will reach thee before the 20th. There seems
to be no accounts given of the Virginia schools in the Jntelli-
gencer. Fanny feels such an interest there, and depends to hear
from them through that. paper. The two papers thee mails are
very acceptable, being our main dependence for daily news. The
Standard, gc., comes too. We want some old carpets for desk
20

covers, to stop the noise of the slates. We have had in constant
use what did come in the first barrels, and they are now about
gone. I was glad to hear from Lucretia. Iam fearfullly tired, so
will conclude, hoping I have asked for all the wants of the
schools. I hear thee saysI have many wants for a satisfied per-
son, but they are mostly wants for the benefit of others, or I
would feel condemned.”

From Sarah A. Steer, Waterford, 1st mo. 17th, 1869.

“Thy letter of Ist mo. 10th has been received. I informed
the colored people of your intention to continue my school for
five months from the first of this month, provided they are
willing to pay $15.00 per month. ‘This they are very willing to
do, and I do not think there will be any difficulty about it. My
school is quite full since Christmas, about fifty ongthe roll; a
number of them are grown people. I do not think their inte-
rest in the cause of education is flagging ; on the contrary I find
in some of them an increased interest since last winter. The
books sent for the Library are very highly appreciated. I am
Librarian; I give them out at the close of school on sixth-day
afternoon, and the promise of a book to take home is induce-
ment for some of the little troublesome ones to be good through
the week. The toys, &c., sent for Christmas were as usual re-
ceived with many demonstrations of joy. There was enough
for all and some to send home to the little ones who do not come
to school. As an evidence of the care the children take of their
presents, I will say that most of them have the gifts received
the first winter I had the school, and they look as nice and new
as if just received. I get the Standard occasionally, not regu-
larly ; I miss it when it fails to.reach me, as it is becoming a
great favorite. I have circulated the numbers I have received
among my white and colored friends. The school house at
Leesburg is not finished. I think the roof is on, but no windows,
and the building not plastered ; at last accounts they had stopped
work on it.”

From B. F. Grant, (Col’d), Centreville, Va., 1st mo. 31st, 1869.

“With great pleasure I take this opportunity to write you a
few lines, to return my sincere thanks for the papers that you
sent me. I would like to take the Hriends’ Intelligencer as long
as I am teaching school out here. J would take it for the year,
but I can not spare the money at this time, for I want to go to
school this summer and will not be making any thing. We had
Sabbath school this morning ; their was some 30 to 35 scholars
out ; we had a good time; we are doing all that the heart could
‘wish in the way of school at present, and I hope the Lord may
21

bless you and the good cause that you have in your care, is the
prayer of your humble servant.”’

From Jennie Speer, Manassas, Va., Jan. 26, 1869.

“Yours of 25th received to-day, and am glad you have de-
cided to keep the school up a while longer. Also glad that I can
report a large attendance at present. Since Christmas the
school has increased rapidly, and now I have over. fifty scholars,
and more coming in every day. They keep me very busy, and
I am afraid I can hardly do justice to so many; but I call on
some of my advanced scholars when I need assistance, and so —
go along very well. The school house is very uncomfortable
and inconvenient, as it has not been plastered, and there are
two doors minus, and a great scarcity of desks and benches. The
colored people have been promising to furnish it ever since I
came here,*but as yet have not commenced it. They are short
of funds, and as we have got along so far through the winter, I
think we will Aave to get along the balance. I know that the chil-
dren cannot learn as fast as they would in a good comfortable
school room, but I know that they do learn, and think it a hard
punishment to stay from school a day. Some of them are great
grown men, and they manifest the same earnestness in study as
the younger ones have. Very many of them come four and five
miles to school, and are among the most punctual ones. The
Sabbath School is quite large now, and I can see an increasing
interest. ,

‘*¢T have no more books than are needed, and should not ia
enough now, but while in Alexandria, some time ago, I went to
a warm-hearted Missionary woman, a Mrs. Parker, and she gave
me all I wanted, and sent them to me ;—thus we find: friends,
even among strangers.

“T have not ‘tired of the work’ yet, but every'day I see
new responsibilities. ‘There are so many wrong feelings to
- overcome ; so much that is contrary to the spirit of the ‘ Gentle
Nazarene ;’ and sometimes the fruit of our labors are so long
unseen ; but I try to remember their training and advantages.”
The children seem to want to do right, when convinced which 7s
right, and that encourages me.

‘Remember me to all my good friends.”

From Carolina Thomas, Springdale, 1st. mo. 3d, 1869.

‘It seems a very long time since I have heard anything from
my old patrons, the ‘“ Freedmen’s Ed. Society,” but I suppose
I must take the blame all to myself, for not answering thy very —
acceptable letter earlier. I have a large school now, and am
fully satisfied with regard to numbers. Have about fifty pupils,

*
22

the majority of them men; anxious to learn all they can in the
few weeks they can spare to come to school. ‘Teaching thus, I
sometimes feel it wearing and exhausting; for their is anxiety
of mind attending it, which certainly has that effect. Neverthe-
less I love my work and would not change it for another. Daily
do I have reason to feel this to be one of the noblest works in
which we are permitted to engage. Iam often led to question
my own heart, whether I am good enough to fill the responsible
position of teacher; to stand up as an example for these people.
In the morning, standing before my desk, my eyes run over the
school room, filled to its utmost capacity with children of all
sizes and color, from the jettiest black to the pale face and blue
eyes; and large men, willing to set at my feet, if need be, to
learn. Is it to be wondered at, if my heart goes up in prayerful
supplication to the throne of the ‘Most High,’ for tyne wisdom
and knowledge to instruct them, and that I may not grow luke-
warm or arbitrary? for I have but to say, ‘do this and he doeth
it,’ and to that ‘come hither and he cometh.’. |

‘J have found true ‘friends in S. M. Janney and family during
my illness, and indeed ever since I have been in this neighbor-
hood. His house is one of my homes, and I always meet with
a kindly welcome there. He and his daughter Cornelia take a
great interest in my school, and while I was not able to go,
assisted in teaching. The friends with whom I am boarding ave
also very kind. I was made just as comfortable when I was ill
as I could have been at home. Indeed I feel under obligations
to many of the friends for kind attentions. It is very pleasant
to be among Christian people, and I can but rejoice that ‘my
lines are thus cast in pleasant places;’ and yet my thoughts
often wander to the city of ‘Sodom,’ and wonder how it is
with my poor people. I sometimes hear from them. I had a
letter a few weeks ago from one of my night scholars, an-
nouncing -the arrival of a little namesake. I believe their
school ‘house is still unfinished, and will, no doubt, remain so for
some time to come, as there is now no one to take the’ matter in
hand and push it along. Three of my old pupils are now com-
ing to school to me, having gotten homes in the neighborhood.
The people have quite a large Temperance Society established
and I should like to meet with them occasionally and read some-
thing to them. Dear friends please give us a little of your
abundance. ‘These people have not much given to them, and I
know anything of the kind would be so thankfully received.

‘“‘T hope thee will have patience to read my letter through ©
and excuse the length. With much love to thy, family and the
Association, and hoping to hear from you soon, I remain, &c.”
23
From Kate FE. Hall, Vienna, Va., Feb. 3d, 1869.

“T wish I might write something of my school that would in-
terest the friends who have done so much for these little freed-
men.

“‘T think sometimes that I am accomplishing wonders in my
little kingdom; my pupils seem to improve so fast; but then,
just when I feel most proud, I hear of some other school where
the children are making such rapid strides in the path of learn-
ing, that I grow discouraged, and think we are not getting along
a bit. How encouraged the teachers at Mt. Pleasant must be.
I believe that if I had been able to keep the same pupils I had
when I first came here, they might have amounted to something
by this time; but that seems almost impossible, Families will
come for a little while and occupy one of the cabins close at hand,
so that their children may have a few weeks schooling before
they are hired out, or while they have nothing to do. They
come and learn to read a little and write a little, and the next
thing I know they are gone; father, mother and all, and some-
body else comes to fill their places.

“Mary K. Brosius spent a part of one morning with me
lately ; she was surprised at seeing but one little girl, who came
when she was the teacher here. ‘There are few of the children,
though, who leave school before they can read tolerably well in
the First Reader, write little words and make all the figures.
With this little knowledge any of them, so minded, can improve
themselves.

‘‘ Thirteen of the pupils I now have came to me at Andrew’s
Chapel; they walk nearly five miles, are never late, and the
day must be terribly stormy indeed that prevents them from
being present. Two or three of them are very bright indeed,
but I have no prodigies.”

From Sallie EB. Lloyd, Woodlawn, 2d mo. 17th, 1869.

‘“‘T believe I have not written to thee since the arrival of the
barrels containing the Christmas presents for the school. 1 sup-
pose J. M. Wood gave thee an account of their proceedings
Christmas evening. He distributed the presents in my place, as
I was not able to be at the school house, a fact which I have not
yet ceased to regret. I commenced school again the ilth of 2d
month, with over forty scholars, and have had a large attendance
ever since ; it will probably be much less next month, as spring
work will soon oblige many of them to leave school. I am obliged
to call upon some of the more advanced ones every day for assist-
ance. I have been very much pleased with the manner in which
most of them manage the classes of which they have the charge.
There are several of the girls who would make good teachers,
24

and I regret so much that they cannot come more regularly to |
school. The half dollar per month is paid cheerfully by those
who feel that they are able. Still, in the four months I have
been teaching, we have collected thirty dollars ($30.00), which
I have kept as thee directed. I believe I told thee in a former
letter that we had elected three directors to collect this money
and attend to all the business of the school. They meet once a
week. After they have attended to any business which they may
have on hand, J. M. Wood and myself read to them, and gener- —
ally some of them read or recite some selected pieces. They elect
officers every four weeks, and are learning to do business in a much
more orderly manner than at first. The Standard comes regularly,
and after we have read them I give them to some one who can
read them, with directions to give them to some one else when
they are through with them; thus all who can read have the
benefit of them. I frequently receive papers which I suppose
thee sends; please except my thanks for them.

“« The packages which thee sent with Uncle Samuel’s barrels
were very acceptable, particularly the spectacles. We have a
number in both First-day and week-day schools who have been —
needing them for a long time, but were unable to get them.
Does thee not think of visiting us this spring ; I am sure it
would do us all good to receive a visit from some of you. I
always think with so much pleasure of your visit two years ago.
I wish so much for you to see my school for yourselves, that you
may know if it is as nice as I think it it. Please remember me
to thy family.

From Helen A. Hurley, Gum Spring, Va., March Ist, 1869.

‘‘My school continues much as usual, ik the exception of
not quite so good an attendance. As the weather has been so
mild the farmers are commencing their spring work, which, I
am sorry to say, deprives me of some of my best scholars ; : still,
a few of them pursue their studies in the evenings, and come to
me when they are at a loss how to proceed, and on stormy days ;
with a very few exceptions, they all take a great deal of interest
in their studies, and really try to improve the advantages they
_ have, to the best of their ability. I have one scholar especially,
a boy about eighteen years of age, who, when he first came to
me, three weeks ago, did not know a single letter of the alphabet,
and who now spells quite nicely. It is really a pleasure to

teach him, he is so anxious to learn; and his whole face bona yh

with joy whenever he is called to say a lesson.

‘‘We had a meeting at.our school-house on Tuesday, to see
what could be done with regard to the last month of the term,
which thee proposed should be their month. We had not so
25

large a number as I had hoped to have seen, in consequence of
their having neglected to notify the people in their Sunday
Meeting, as I wished them to do. I suppose there were about
forty persons present; all took quite an interest in the affair,
and seemed pleased with the idea. They subscribed eighteen .—
dollars (in addition to eight dollars which had been privately
collected) which I think was doing very well indeed, when we ~
take into consideration that most of them are very poor. I do
not think there will be any difficulty in collecting the remainder,
as there were quite a number not present whom I am sure will
be willing to pay ; indeed several have sent me word that they
wished to do their part toward it. During the evening of the |
meeting I heard one man observe to another that he thought the
Friends at the North had been liberal indeed. Hoping I have
not wearied thee, I remain, &c.

On account of her health Mary McBride resigned, and for
the balance of the term recommended M. Lewis, who was a pupil
and had assisted her,

Fairfax C. H., Mar. 4th, 1869.

“ Dear Friends.—Miss Mary informs me she, is going to resign
as teacher at the C. H. the last of this month. With her ap-
_ proval I hereby make application for the situation when vacant.
_ I will endeavor to do my duty by the scholars, and as the school
_ will be much smaller during the spring 1 think I will be com-
 petent to manage it. :
- Please let me hear from you soon. With a heart full of grati-
tude to the kind friends North,
I remain yours respectfully,
Macair Lewis.

From Sarah A. Steer, Waterford, Va., 3d month 23d, 1869.

“‘ Enclosed thee will please find receipt for seventy dollars, in
full to Fifth month 1st. I will report the 1st of Fifth month
as thee directs. My school has been very full during the First
and Second months, giving me just as much asI could attend
to from morning till night, and often being obliged to call on
some of my pupils to assist in hearing the classes. Quite a
number have left in the last two weeks, and more will leave the
last of the month, as the season for working on the farms ad-
vances. The whooping cough has been quite prevalent among
the little ones through the winter ; some are getting well enough
. to come back to school again. I think the scholars generally
have advanced right well; I see no reason to. be discouraged
with my winter’s work. The older ones seem to feel the neces-
sity of making the most of their time, and apply themselves

-
26

steadily and earnestly. Their conduct is admirable ; I have not —
had an instance of bad behaviour to remark through the winter,
on the part of the grown up scholars. They are very obedient,
and seem to wish to give me as little trouble as possible. I
enjoy teaching. my winter school more than any other. Of
course among the younger ones I have some who are very try-
ing to both temper and patience, and who do not love study,as
well as play; but I hope they will improve as they grow older ;
for some of the brightest intellects in school are among these
‘mischievous little folks. We had a very pleasant visit from
Carrie Thomas at our Quarterly Meeting, which was held here
_ last month; she seems very much interested in her school at
Lincoln, and is much more pleasantly situated than at Leesburg.
The colored people of Leesburg are now plastering their school-
house; so I suppose it is nearly finished. I am very sorry to
hear of Lucretia Mott’s illness; we had heard she expected to
visit our neighborhood, and hoped she would do so before long;
T hope her illness will not prove seridus. I have received the
Independent quite regularly, and enjoy it so much, especially
Mrs. Ames’ letter in the last; how kind of her to undergo such
a pleasure as the ‘Inauguration Ball,’ just to gratify us poor
country girls, who could not go, with a description of it. The —
name of the colored man who wants the Intelligencer is Webster |
Minor, one of my scholars. Iam right glad it is to be sent to —
him, ashe will appreciate it. The colored First-day school here |
was dropped at Christmas; we expect to re-commence the Ist
of Fourth month. I have no expectation of attending your
Yearly Meeting this spring, though it would be very pleasant
todo so. My recollections of my visit to Philadelphia are so
pleasant that I will be willing to repeat it.”

From Jennie Speer, Manassas Va., March 27, 1869.

‘Yours of the 23d, containing P. O. orders, was duly received,
for which I send the receipt. Iwas not aware that I did not
send the receipt for the whole before, and will do so now.

‘“‘T am very sorry that you think of closing the school so
soon; it seems to me that we are just getting nicely started, and
ready to go right along. The cold weather being over anda
good prospect of having a comfortable school-house, we can get
along so much better. The colored people have fixed up some
benches and desks, and have raised money to plaster the house ;
and besides that, I have the promise of help in the Sabbath-
school, which is getting along go nicely. I feel that the colored —
people here need Missionaries as much as any of the ‘ Sandwich
Islanders.’ Their religious ideas are composed of prejudice and
superstition; and many would not, at first, let their children
27

come to Sabbath School; and one needs patience to ‘learn to
wait for the seeds to spring up and bear fruit.’ In all the time
I have been here, I have never felt so encouraged to go on, and
do all that is in my power for the colored children.

‘“¢ Several gentlemen from New York have been stopping here
in Manassas within the past few weeks,’ and our school has been
to them an object of much interest. They have visited it several
times, and expressed themselves much pleased with the progress
of the scholars and the interest they take in their studies; they
could see the disadvantage in teaching without ‘school-house
furniture.’ They. did much to encourage me, and bade the cause
‘God speed,’ and left with a promise of my hearing from them
again ‘substantially.’

“I sincerely hope you may continue the school until July 1st,
if possible; after that, when the Fall term commences, I am sure
they would raise as much or more than was promised last year.
I know their ways better now, and can raise it in the same way
that we do for the school-house now. I have sacrificed my
home and many friends to teach this school, and do not regret
it ;—but feel that my work is not done yet. I expect to see the
school here support its own teacher, and when they do, the
Trustees say they wish me to remain. God knows that I have
tried to do my duty as well as I knew, and I pray each day for
strength and guidance. I feel a personal interest in every scho-
lar, and when I speak of going away, many eyes fill with tears.
I would like to know as soon as possible whether you are going
to continue the school. I wish some of you could visit the school,
as you could tell better how we are getting along; I only know
that I have tried to do all that I could. I know that the chil-
dren do learn very fast, and now that my school is not so large,
they can have a better opportunity. I still have enough, and as
some of the larger ones leave, there will be smaller ones coming
in; and those who do come will learn more rapidly than in a
larger school ;—of course I cannot tell now how large the school
will be.

‘‘M. E. McBride is going away, she tells me; I am sorrys
She has done a good work at Fairfax, and will carry with her
the thanks of many hearts that beat just as affectionately be-
neath a dusky skin as though they were our own race. I have
found that the key to success in teaching is kindness, and
there are very few who cannot be reached by it.

‘“*T suppose I have said quite enough, much more than I had in-
tended to; but I know that your sympathies are with us, and
that you will do all that you can for us. He that said ‘ Inas-
much as ye did it unto one of the least of these, ye did it unto
28

me,’ will not forget you ‘in that day waen He comes to make
up His jewels.’

‘Kind regards to all our good friends, and hope to hear from
you soon.”

From Helen A. Hurley,.Gum Spring, Va. March 31, 1869. |

“‘T have filled up this blank to the best of my knowledge;
hope it may prove satisfactory. My Sunday School is not what
I should like to have it, by any means; but having no help in
the work, I.am obliged to do the best I can, which best, I fear,
is poor enough. I should have given it up in despair long ere
this, did I not believe that One greater than man is ever near to
help; and can make even a weak instrument the medium through
which He accomplishes His purposes.”’

The accompanying letter from a devoted laborer among the
Freedmen, was received by a member of the Association.

Curistranspure, Monraomery County, Va., February 17th, 1869.

“My Dear Friend,—I write you by way of encouragement in
the great work in which, you are engaged, for the elevation of
the freed people. Truly our Heavenly Father has opened a
wide sphere for the kind, disinterested co-operation on the part
of the friends of this hitherto despised and oppressed race ; and
has committed into their hands the fearful responsibility of de-
ciding whether the future shall find the freedmen among the
ignorant, superstitious and debased portions of the community,
or, through the blessings of education and every good and kindly
influence thrown around them, raised to a position of honor, in-
tellectual refinement, and a power for good in the land.

‘Tt is, then, a question among the friends of the cause, not
as liow soon the work shall cease, or when it will be proper to
withdraw the hitherto liberal support given to it, but how to
make it more effective—and the enlistment of even larger num-
bers, including those who have not done their whole duty, in
giving a new impetus to the work, and a greater sacrifice of what- —
ever may be demanded for its successful accomplishment.

‘¢ With an experience of more than two years of direct effort
in the field, I can assure you that the work seems more than
ever important, and weighs upon my heart with greater force
and magnitude than I can readily express to you. Indeed, it
seems as if we had just begun to gather in the rich fruit of our
labor, while on every hand the seed is taking deep root, germi-
nating and expanding, and bids fair for an abundant harvest.
God be praised for this. But while we see these indications of
His willingness to bless feeble instrumentality in accomplishing
29

the great and glorious purposes of His providence, shall we then
be satisfied? or should it not arouse us to.greater diligence, and
the consecration of even more of life, talent, property or what-
ever may be claimed from us, in one united, honest, continued
effort for the accomplishment of that which is fraught with the
interests of both time and eternity ?

‘With the freedmen it isa time of oppressive anxiety, in
view of the anticipated withdrawal of both Government and
benevolent support and encouragement, and their cry is, ‘Do
not leave us! Do not withdraw from us the necessary help in
our time of need!’

** And although it was my own intention, on being discharged
from duty as an officer of the Bureau, (the time for its limitation
having expired), to return to my home and enjoy quiet and rest,
yet duty now seems to demand my return at the earliest practi-
cable moment; and I feel it in my heart, God willing, to give myself
up anew to the work. The only trouble is the want of means to
successfully prosecute it; but depending upon the never-failing
resources of God’s treasury, I shall go forth trusting.

“Tam glad to inform you that the assistance rendered me
during the past year, through your kind co-operation, and that
of the other dear friends, has been productive of great good, and
your kindness heartily appreciated by the people under my
charge. Beside the many comforts for the poor, afflicted and
distressed, and the distribution of seeds, from which they were
supplied with vegetables during the past summer and winter,
there was special and substantial encouragement given in the work
of education, and particularly in country places, where our
colored friends would have remained in the darkness of igno-
rance, had you not supplied them with the necessary books and
other means of self-education.

‘Expecting to spend one or two months in Philadelphia,
when I shall have the pleasure of conversing with you more fully
in reference to these matters, I remain,

Very truly. your friend, C. 8. ScHarFrer.”

The question arises, are we willing to abandon this work?
Do we think we have done our whole duty towards these people?
Let all examine seriously the ground of our obligations, and see
to it that what is required is to the best of our ability performed.
Much has been done; vastly more remains yet to be accomplished.
The results so far have been. greater than could have been anti-
cipated. Never, perhaps, in the world’s history, have events so
crowded upon each other. The down-trodden and oppressed are
30

wheeling into the ranks of free and independent citizenship ;
standing, as should every one in our beloved land, upon intrinsic
worth. Much of this is due to the steadfast friendship and un-
ceasing efforts of this and kindred associations, encouraged and
strengthened by the labors of the friends of human rights and
human progress, who laid the broad foundations of their prin-
ciples in the unerring dictates of truth.

If we discover that there remains any further work for us in
this portion of the Master’s vineyard, let us make haste to carry
it forward till every vinelet has received its proper culture, and
is made to bring forth ripe clusters at the harvest, which shall
redound to the praise of the great Husbandman.

These thirsty travellers on the highway of life are calling for
the pure fountain of knowledge, erying for but a single drop to
quench the burning of that desire to know more which consumes
their lives.. Let us not turn a deaf ear to these wants, but from
the abundance with which we have been blessed spare something
to further the cause in which we have been so signally successful
—the elevation and education of the Freedmen.

 

Report of Henry M. Latina, Treasurer.

 

 

 

1868.
5th mo. 1. To Balance on hand........ ntiais nibh tindaes sepanibiamiem > dakiie knits as Wik maa $ 675 84
Cash {7oTd) ONE DU ELONG:. 0c; cnicy snsiiessnsetesperiwes ado schueaba - 4004 99
“ received from Freedmen’s Bureau for rent of
BEWOOL=MOUBES: sbpis csivavcsedenanscndunareneg ae Bes shen 270 00
IS DalM@HOO OF LMLGRGHC. -snesed ss acasbctastesonuees sbacseabai cs 50 00
$5000 83
DR.
By Cash paid Teachers.........s00 secovese pesdiiele .$4336 53
uv of ) Rettirn Fare... s.cisecccsas 86 70
c >: fOr ANNUAL REPOLC. snes ac bevbsece ° 80 60
it « Circulars, Stamps, &c........ 32 88 4536 71
1869.
5th mo. 1. To balance on hand........ eatae eseriussace seiadeu bene Sub Sesepasbun $464 12
; Henry M. Larne,
Phila., 5th mo., 1st, 1869. © No. 30 N. Third St.
31

CASH CONTRIBUTION S.

From Friends of

“  Philadelplia..........066-D1729
 Wilmington.......... Sites SOL
Mi BHLGEGTOVE sesccentettdveders”| (OT
« -Trenton...... sadeieeddeeeeese! Tht SO
“ Horsham...... othe Hie sca
6 Birmingham...0/isscs © 68
‘6 Makefield........ We eae Regt eS
~~ Fallowfield..... Wea 8BD
BU GeAGE os Scyeshcnseaisat 51
(CH ICONM ELE... ccaanvapesene tape iale t7D
“ New Garden...... bapeaneas peck 42
66 ByDerry....co.:sesces.coveee 40
‘“ Upper Greenwich........ vit 30
46 CFOBMED).. oh cuc sks benopeee Md). 220
«“ Fishing Creek....cce.ssece 9 17
Me ORION Isles ce bosatecesdeeNee) RO
se Haverford........... iiccake ti £0
¢  Rennsgroveliccicevessssies sil NG
Mt.’ Holly....... SeUhaapuaeee UCN ED
HS MOTION. or che versa eenopeneeses cuwee
4 G TISGOL sas ascessveiey BIA by WED
‘“ Alloways Creek......... is 8
6 Concord.......00 vivbavedas . 7
Ae OMe SADE Sed svasdan ce 7
“© Middletown, Pa..........+. 5
From Women Friends of
BF MO OTOLG scissesene vices renova 8
“Wrightstown, Pa.......... 14
Ml MAGRDULY <ssdusivesverenepens,): ibe
WL DALDY clccneisaurnuvecse trues BO
$e 5.) TIMMONS: suse ceo skustves 10
L. A. S., Newtown, Pa....... a 5

37
00
50
00
55
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
35
00
00
00
00

00

00

00
00

' 50

50
00
00

Mary D. Brown......escsess ssscese
Esther S. Justice.........0.. ode i
Jesse Yocum, Pennsville, Ohio
Estate of J. D. Thurston........
H. A. Llewellyn, Del. Co...... ae
Sarah. P. Crozier, Chester Co...
Emma Crozier, Mi. pean
Caleb. Heald :., 0: ccssavicten teeses
©. M. Reeves, Richmond, Ind..
Bis t3 os WH CULe Mines ecnswblonins neplndnace
Confidence, Pan aciesesnsecsunnstae
George Jenkins..........2....000
Aaron Shaw, Fairburg, IIL......
T. Woodruff, Richmond, Ind...
Susan Pusey, Maiden Creek....
Ruth Jackson, Hockessin, Del.
S. Marshall, Milwaukee, Wis..
R. Mosher, Cardington, Ohio...
J. Nichols,
A Friend, Squan Village, N. J.
it Xenia, Ohio. ccs ay ¥
L. P. Yatesman, Hockessin, Del.
S. Hunt, Moorestown, N. J.....
Jesse Holmes and others, West
‘hiberty; lowainisa ise
Green & Button, Milwaukee...
8. 8. B. & R. M., W. Liberty, I.

Lutheran Church, New Wil-
mington, Pa., per V. Miller..

 

Nathaniel Barney, New York..

N. Potter, Battle Creek, Mich..°

600

25 00
CONTRIBUTIONS

Received during the Year, at No. 30 North Third Street, by
H. M. Laine, Zreasurer.

Bbl. Clothing........ Weclpsshewvensnes goes tetee Jane Hall, Hestonville.

GERD Sa aeipen bis sasaheeds esse coosnamenvabe .- Ann S. Llewellyn, Del. Co,

SEROOMIN G8 ii i puk shosyohnvacep>ncey op cane aiaiie Rachel W. Townsend.

ISOOKS i iiisvccceveusoes cdgntdiyseudeseose Pennelen Jane Johnson.

RHOUMAN dies ecdnnces sisacteaass one ceveeteagecnay Sarah T. Rogers.

BROOES \shnesss se ivavass Lice piaeka sebwagheneMen .. Lydia Gillingham.

MARTGTO NEL Ccas sagedelconseterobosedasarssteoseees Benj. Coates.

MORON as sb. sec soenvene iostatekieossens se etous Elizabeth Nicholson. ™

500 Books for First-day re per..... Richard Cadbury,

UAV Ric ssn sdocvcces sens seeettalts Suxeceias comenae ss ». Oyrus Whitson.

Box Clothing specs teak cheep saeeth bcebeehaectie Angeline Hamilton,

ROMER ec cud cic sisn lode abuewobeugircubapenee cauhance Mary C. Browning.

400 Bibles and Testaments....... beliasiaiebs Friends’ Bible and Tract Association.

MADE NVULIUS couse tiocess ceva tvaneedonemeeeniasy Margaret A. Griscom.

Menor HOOKS, QC. is .sicucsestevockuassesrae Friends’ Freedmen’s Assoc.

Box Clothing ...... RAUL ies Wess uate pias Jane Hall.

MMO RPIDUTF oo 0' sdusbihapusugnadbecentnieey s peel Jane Graham.

PEPIMATN INR. caval ea wessassetephnnptecnlaneyey toes | Mary: Beans.

uibraries for. 12 Schools ..........cseceeseee Pa. Abolition Society.

ROUTING sssnccssuapeuscsevcties piecneasu sto veases C. L. Wood.

Box Books Mates Peet nivaces A « Sarah Pugh,
edeseveepitcatagehsacucals soncscesessee WAWard Parrish,

Bustiiond to Meachersie veils ssgisa, elsbes Female Anti-Slavery Society.

Books, &c......... Pos heb svacaduesbasvesteseuncks Mary Grew.

ROWS oo snidituest Wutbousscseeealssee wade sad. Abby Burnett, Burlington, N. J.

“Intelligencers” to Teachers.............

MPMI EG aks tdischwas sodkconesinapbucdons ako Salem, N. J.

Porterage,. per......-.s0 Peetcu reas Lacessseer Andrew McFeeters.

‘Per Mary Beans, Sor Sewing School.

MARY JOaDG..ic.scce esssses nictsdithepuiad abeak Cash, $10 00.
aa MRR p ches epcudnnys nibooaeprten i 4 50.
WED IRAE VIG copaesfocdatecabiecse tebe ohbs dueeke & 1 00.
PAIS. eer GHP erecta cables vauievensecepeas eee ¢ 1 00.
Anna R. Sennett........ gabpenebcaiceeauetaese + 5 00.
Mary: Beans. ...5iy.tpessescs Roubnaeerieusness 10).00.
Harriet Ambler ...., ...00. 00+ Biddsen Gepuaba tf 75.
Mellor, Bains & Mellor. ........0sssssseee eee Trimmings.

WO DONEING.cscuN, tevesueecsbtonpraucegss Scissors.

Ay Priond | Market Ob icicisivcsesvepeceecune ss Sewing Implements.
HL Athlete ics ona ati avesccge ci Clothing.

ME OUEOG cai caro scvaceesie reuesvaanwnswurtenal Paper, Slates.
MALY TROBNB iii icocicsesn ivyccdecs Usapubenvabin . 12 U.S. History,
Oopperwaithe & 00... scesecesosseasssdvosces 12 &

Masry Cad tira is... ssc vss iitcespexeacanenses Books.

Friends’ Race St. School............ waewbay Books.
‘Report of Forwarding Committee from Fifth Month, 1868, to
Fifth Month, 1869.

Twenty-five barrels, containing books, clothing, &c., have been forwarded
during the yd, as follows:

ING Oe. LID D elds c oes tan ves sevech’er yes stne 8. M. Gage, Beaufort, S. C.
DBD ti sn cya te desdinvses ieacecase -tc8 GOrnelia Hancock, Mt Pleasant. one.
ROAD 2 ssh cpehat css shce Bates taabawewee ns Fanny E. Gauze, is
BOUL A tacts seetyate eehes hoe meagnns baa Lizzie Heacock, Re
DOBT 1 iG bersp eb a rewscs actekey on gotapumree: WOO ee Woodlawn, Va.
OO AL TS Se aie keilds vicud tae sed oe Helen J. Jewel, Warren Va.
RHOK MeN wea s meat tay ck Lesa wal beh pout a ¢ Brinkerhoff, Herndon, Va.
BBN Le icas es vate isa ackoe age capev uae’ SEBTEIOt UODRINE © Btls Danton may
BOR AAS tances gcc Veek tines Sahvagaevtas Sarah A. Steer, Waterford, Va.
ROS «tO aS i vieewtuestereseu’ Jennie Speer, Manassas, Va.
BGR oa ce icobesteteqnaiaes RG tIO ee ARE, SO ETE, Va.
RAGIN E Ch eel Tee cue ant eaeee saecee Sallie E. Lloyd, Woodlawn, Va.
POR Se: Sa aires. beiseet stsesk Us GLANCOCK, Mh POnBAng 8. C.
MOS CMa CM an are sata esta ca B. F. Grant, Centreville, Va.
POG URSACAC) Durwiccy biktceenw dedeaty Harriet Jenkins, Falls Church, Va.
PDs ee AE lLastuns a attbes cesndbck cocdes C. Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, S. C.
UCC Eee Soe iiuivoeesceugse tied 5c (dot LIDOS LAV OURO! Wis ;
ETO T a si aavnesscouarencniessese: CRTONOS® PDORIAS, Lees tre, vias
Contributions for Christmas.
PRRCEIE MOLL rs Sascscacsoncip east ers ds veswote d Cash.
REPEL ivi epidesduon cabal acsce vine dcoatackie .
HH. M. Bs ey cae O00 eeeeescreeeceee sreer- ee ereeeee on
ME Re IGHG. sib vy sh iScupusssste stavendeccean Knives, Scissors, &c.
BACK IPEUIMAN UN Gis cy evcvensedebcaceedes Acute Sundries.
MALY AG OH RW iy scl ss vbdebactesbiace Cay se China Toys.
Kate and Geo. Laing sec ap icder hbeess Toys and Candy.
MAME MTOR oun 2) Nis ons dhgesiosiae ree cache hates Box of Candies.
Sallie ‘Cooper’s. School... ., :.:....0ssseos .-- Toys, Books, &c.
34 .

In giving a summary of the work of the Association, from
its origin, it is impossible to form a correct estimate of its com-
plete operations, from the fact that numerous valuable contribu-
tions of garments, books, seeds, sanitary stores, &c., were for-
warded without an accurate inventory being had of them.

With regard to the funds expended for educational purposes
we would say, that although we have but twelve schools in
active operation at the present time, we have had at other
periods of our history a greater number, and have assisted
others by small donations, —while, through the assistance aud
influence of our teachers, night and First-d day schools have been
established in various neighborhoods, the books for which have
been supplied by the “F ‘riends Bible and Tract Affsociation.”

When we reflect that in the course of a few years the des-
tinies of the nation will be influenced by these children, who
are now so earnestly asking us for an edecation which will
enable them wisely to exercise that influence, can we, as Chris-
tians or lovers of our common country, prove lukewarm to
our long profession of ‘‘ being peculiarly the friends of these
people,” refuse the small share of our tneans to assist in the
accomplishment of a purpose which will fit them to care for
themselves? °

We would therefore appeal to Friends for the means to con-
tinue this three-fold work,—looking as it does toward their
spiritual, intellectual and temporal welfare,—believing that we
shall, by so doing, realize that “it is more blessed to give than
to receive.”

Amount paid teachers, . ‘ ; ‘ . $18,145
Af TOM BOOKS,” yi j ; : ; 2,028
ie! for seeds, ' . j : j : oC ee
i ‘“« for sanitary stores, . ( \ ' 2,990
iy “for material for clothing, ‘ ‘ BOT 6G
: ‘« for expenses, Report, &e. ak y ; 917
y ‘“« for donations to Asylums, &., . ‘ 2,300

Total, : , ‘ ’ . $57,300

No. of schools, (whole number) i : : 25

“schools at present, . : ’ j é 12
“« boxes and barrels forwarded, k ; ‘ 391
“) pew garments, . ; i ; : . 26,375
‘¢ part worn do., : j i ‘ . 2 eOe

Besides a large quantity feiwakied of which no account was
taken. Neither does this include the clothing made up for the
‘‘Penna. Freedmen’s Association.”
   
    
 

OF THE

i
i}

PHILADELPHIA ~

FOR THE

a

     
      
 

levation of the jFreedmen.

PHILADELPHIA;

  

JHomas WILLIAM STUCKEY, PRINTER,

 

este Sy Se 403 NORTH SIXTH STREET.
SIXTH ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION

OFr

PHILADELPHIA

FOR THE

 

fi aul flection af the feeder

PHILADELPHIA:

J HOMAS WILLIAM STUCKEY, PRINTER,

403 NORTH SIXTH STREET.

1870.
Oo BY PCO as.

SECRETARIES.
JACOB M. ELLIS, 325 Walnut Street,
ANNIE COOPER, 1733 Filbert Street.

Corresponding Secretary.

ELLEN M. CHILDS, 634 Race Street.

TREASURER. :
HENRY M. LAING, 30 North Third Street.

STANDING COMMITTEES.

Education Committee.

Jacos M. E tis, Lucretia Morr,

Lyp1a GILLINGHAM, Martua Dopason,
AuFrreD H. Love, Harriet E. Srocktey,
Epira W. ATLEEg, JosEPpH M. TrRuMAN, JR.

3
Louisa J. RoBeErts.

Forwarding Committee.
Gro. W. Roppins, Mary Beans, Henry M. Larne.

Collecting Committee.

Sarau K. GiILLIncHAM, -Dittwyn Parrisu,
WitxiaM ©. Brppte, T. E. CoapMan,
EpMUND WEBSTER, ANNA SHOEMAKER,
CHARLES Evans, EvizaBeTu J. Ferris,
Racuet M. Townsenp, AuFrRED H. Love,
Jacos M. Ex.is, LukKENS WEBSTER,
Witui1am Heacock, SAMUEL S. Asu,
ANNIE BIDDLE, Mary H. Nrewsorp,
Henry M. Laine, ° W. J. GILLINGHAM,
Anna M. Cuinps, -  Morpercar Buzsy,
Louisa J. Roperts; THOMAS GARRIGUES,
Emity H. ArKinson, ~ Evita W. ATLEE.
AUDITORS.

MorprEcal Buzsy, _ CHARLES THOMAS.
Bo Pe Our ry

Our Sixth Annual Report will present nothing new in its
features.

Owing to the fact that the adult and elder children have
been obliged to labor to supply their physical wants, our schools
have been less in numerical strength: this, however, has not,
we believe, weakened in any wise the influence of our teachers
in their various neighborhoods. The cost to the Association
for the maintenance of these schools is much less than formerly;
as the pupils in most cases contribute to their support. The
zeal evinced to avail themselves of their educational privileges
is in no wise abated, and renders the work as interesting as at
any former period. In consideration of the late important
changes, by which the rights of citizenship have been secured
to the Freedmen, it behooves Friends to consider ‘seriously
whether instead of withdrawing from this field of labor, we are
not called upon to make greater exertion; that they may be well
fitted by the education now being received, to exercise their
newly-acquired rights intelligently, and for the good of them-
selves and our common country.

Were Friends fully aware of the-healthful and wide spread
influence of our teachers, we doubt not that the contributions
would be more general and greatly increased in amount. Our
expenses are light, the funds being used only in ordinary schools,
which affords us opportunity to enlarge the field of our operations
and the accomplishment of greater good.
4

Most of the teachers have continued their First-day Schools,
which have been large and of deep interest; they, as well as other
schools in the neighborhood, are greatly indebted to Friends’
Tract and Bible Distributing Association for valuable contribu-
tions of Books, Papers, etc.

It will be seen by our Treasurer’s Report, that the subscrip-
tions have been less than usual; some of the schools having
been closed earlier than usual, and the aid afforded by the
Freedmen’s Bureau, in the rental of school houses, is the cause
of the balance in the treasury. :

We are also in receipt of numerous letters from the various
Schools, urging us to continue them until the State authorities
shall be in a condition to take care of. them.

Having sent our teachers forth with full faith that our
Father’s blessing attends a righteous work, we have been
enabled to continue our labors, believing that the concern for
this long oppressed people is still alive with many.

The following extracts from letters from our teachers show
the zeal and cheerfulness with which they resumed their labors
in the Autumn, after their vacation, and the continued interest
which those, for whom they have labored so faithfully, manifest
in acquiring an education.

JENNIE SPEER writes from Manassas :—

“T know that there will be more than thirty scholars, and that a
school averaging over thirty can be maintained during five months at
least. I am very happy at the prospect of getting back to them, feel-
ing that I can go to work under less difficulties than last year. I
have plenty of books now, and the school-room is finished, and the
children are all anxious that the school should begin soon. I am
happy to hear from them, that they have kept up their Sabbath
School with sixty on the roll, and all get their lessons and take much
interest in the school.”

In a letter written in the First month, she says:—

“T canassure you your letters are always encouraging to me: to know
and feel that your sympathies are with us, that your interest is unabated,
is indeed a source of pleasure. But of this I never had a doubt,—
actions speak more forcibly than words. I am very glad that I can
report a full school; there are fifty-five on the roll, and I think the
5

average attendance is nearly forty. I have many new scholars this
winter who have never been to school before; some of them surprise
me by learning so rapidly.

“T get discouraged sometimes; I suppose all teachers do; and think
that my patience and diligence need to be redoubled: I do pray for
it, and I know that He, who is the fountain of all our strength, hears
and answers my prayers.

“Our Sabbath School progresses nicely, and as the weather becomes
more favorable, I think it will increase.”

In one of her letters she speaks of the difficulty of obtain-
ing a suitable boarding-place; as the prejudice existing in Ma-
nassas against any one who teaches colored people, excluded her
from the families of the residents there.

Satire E. Luoyp writes :—

“When school opened, I told the colored people that I thought they
were not required to pay anything toward the salary of their teacher,
. but they could pay ten cents each per month, that we might be able
to keep on hand a fund sufficiently large to defray the expenses of
getting wood, and anything else we may need for the school. This
they readily agreed to do.

“Our Virst-day School this afternoon, although unusually small,
was very interesting; there are generally in attendance about sixty-
five.

‘My school is becoming more and more interesting each day, and
I regret that the time when you propose to close it will come so soon.

“Many of the scholars who have attended heretofore, are again
coming back. For the last two weeks the average attendance has
_ been about thirty-seven or eight; and it is quite as many as I have
time to attend to, even with occasional assistance from some of the
girls in my first class.

“Our Directors visit us quite frequently. They have put the house
in order for Winter, banking up the sides with earth, mending the
broken windows, etc., and making it much more comfortable than it
hasbeen. They have also built a very substantial wood-house, which we
find a great convenience in stormy weather. The colored people have
had several meetings of their Lyceum again this winter. Chalkley
Gillingham has attended a number of them, and has delivered short
lectures upon different subjects, which they seem to enjoy, and to un-
derstand and remember remarkably well. He promises to attend at
every other meeting and give them a series of lectures’”

The following interesting letter, dated from Waterford, First
month 31st, from Saran A. STEER, will show the advancement
of some of her pupils:—
6

‘“‘T believe the number of pupils in attendance is greater than at
this time last year, having some days as many as seventy present.
They have kept me very busy; even with the aid of some of the
scholars, I have scarcely found the day long enough to accomplish all
I wished to do. The weather so far, has been so warm and Spring-
like, and the roads so good, that all the little ones living in the coun-
try can easily walk, so that I have them in addition to the usual
number of men and large boys. I think they show as much interest -
as ever, and in some cases more. I have not found it necessary to
turn my last winter’s scholars back; they have apparently lost very
little, and take up their studies and go on where they left off without
any difficulty. I have a class of eight in Warren’s large Geography,
and a class of eleven in History (Goodrich’s United States). These
have just started since New Year, and are getting along very well.
My highest class in Arithmetic are working in Fractions, and are
thorough as far as they have gone, I think: I had six new scholars
the first of this month, four men and two boys, who did not know the
Alphabet; they are now spelling words of five and six letters, and
reading a little. They are so anxious to learn that I have very little
trouble in teaching them. I think there is a decided improvement in
the condition of the colored people of this neighborhood. I have
very few ragged ones in school, and nearly all have good boots or
shoes, and are clean and whole. Their behavior, with a few excep-
tions, is excellent, and they seem to wish to give me as little trouble
as possible. They are prompt in their payment of the ten dollars per
month, their portion of my salary, paying it out of the fund raised
for that purpose. They also provide coal, etc., so that I have no
trouble at all in attending to it: I thought you would be glad to know
that they are willing and trying to do what they can to support the
school. One of my favorite pupils left me at Christmas, to enter the
High School in your City, where she now is. She wishes to qualify
herself for a teacher.

“The great interest for the Indians, which is felt by Friends, has
not failed to reach us, and some of our Friends have left their homes
to go among them. They have written back, giving accounts of their
manner of living, &c., which are highly interesting. I was invited a
short time ago to spend the afternoon in company with most of our
young Friends in sewing for the Indians,—the material being fur-
nished at the request of one of our number, by the Baltimore Com-
mittee. I went after school, and arrived in time to see the finishing
touches put to the work. Nothing was left for me to do but enjoy
the nice supper and social chat afterwards. Of course, I regretted not
giving my stitch, but consoled myself with thinking my afternoon’s
work had been in quite as good a cause.”

IsaADORE BRINKERHOFF, who was teaching at Herndon, re-
ported a regular attendance of thirty-five, she says:—

“My pupils progressed rapidly in all their studies; there is quite
T

a strife in the second spelling class, to see who shall remain at the
head of the class for the longest time. They all study their lessons
well, and pay strict attention.”

After the Christmas Holidays, Sauuiz E. Luoyp writes :—

“T commenced to-day with forty-nine scholars; several returned
who had not been in school since the previous winter.

“(ne man had been working ever since last Spring on a farm in
Montgomery County, Penna. When he left school, he procured books
like those he had been using in school, and when he could find time
for study, had devoted himself to them with so much energy, that he
not only retained all he had learned before, but had made considerable
progress.”

Saran A. STEER gives an interesting account of the closing
exercises of her school, Fourth month 18th:—

“T gave notice that I had a letter from Philadelphia to read, and
that, with the interest all seemed to feel in being present ut the close,
brought a large number of the colored people together. Nearly all of
the scholars had selected pieces to recite, which they did very well
indeed. One of my white friends present said, ‘I might feel quite
proud of my school,’ and I do, and I feel very sorry to give it up.
They all promised to study as much as they can while at home, and
the older ones say they will do all they can to continue the school
here. They cannot re-open before fall, but I think they will do so
then. I believe their interest increases in the cause of education as
they see what their children have accomplished. I wish thee could
have been present, and seen how perfectly satisfied, I might say happy,
the parents looked when their children were called out, and recited
their pieces without making a mistake. I think it would have been
a satisfaction to you, who have spent so much time and money in their
interest, to see the progress they have made. After they had gone
through with their recitations, I read your address to them.

‘‘Your good advice was thankfully received, and I am sure will be
productive of good. They expressed themselves as being so much
obliged to you for all you have done for them, and I know they are,
and will try to be worthy of it. I promised to read the address to
them again at Sabbath School, as there are some who would like to
hear it who could not come yesterday. I will remark here, that they
have been punctual in paying me ten dollars per month, their portion
of my salary. They also bought coal and paid a man one dollar per
month to make the fire and sweep the school-room, thus relieving me
of all trouble, and having the room always clean and comfortable when
I went to it in the morning. Though our correspondence will, I sup-
pose, cease from this time, I hope to be held in remembrance by those
with whom I feel that I have been associated in this great work,—a
8

work in which my heart has been truly interested, and to which I
could not have given my time except through your benevolence.”

Witu1aM F. Powett, a colored man, residing at Leesburg,
in a letter written to a member of the Association, says:—

‘Your Association has accomplished a great work, by being in-
strumental in founding a school here, for those who were once
enslaved. ‘Too much praise cannot be given to Caroline Thomas, for
her self-sacrificing and arduous labor in behalf of those who had been
denied the blessing of an education. We are only continuing the
good work your Society began.”

CorRNELIA Hancock writes from South Carolina:—

“Thinking there may be some among you who still feel an interest
in this far-off school, I will note what of interest has transpired since
our return.

‘The school was opened the First of Eleventh month, and con-
tinued until the Holidays. New Year’s, or ‘Hmancipation Day,’ was
selected for our anniversary. This seems to me a more fitting time
and a more important anniversary than Christmas. Our new school-
house was found exceedingly convenient for the occasion, as we could
have the grown people too. They repeated the 23d Psalm and sung
two hymns, when the work of distributing was commenced, the gene-

rosity of individuals supplying the materials.* They choose their

presents according to their standing in their classes, which we ascer-
tain by keeping a record of marks.

‘As such anniversaries come round, I always try to note the pro-
gress of civilization among these children. In raising any community
from the depths of degradation that slavery produces, we cannot
eXpect them to abandon all their old habits, and adopt the customs of
cultivated people in a day; so I try to look for changes to take place
in years.

“ And surely great changes have taken place with these children.
No one ought to feel discouraged in looking forward to their future,

although they have yet no elevating or educating home influences, »

which will of course operate much against them in this generation.
They have the lessons of extreme poverty and much oppression yet
to suffer.

“The depressed state of business in the South, makes it very hard
for them to get employment at remunerative rates; and the dense ig-
norance existing in the grown people’s minds makes it extremely
difficult for them to settle upon any business that requires forethought

 

* It may be well once more to remark, that the funds of the Association
are never encroached on for these celebrations.

*
9

or calculation. This affects their interest very much in settling upon.
land.

“Their chief anxiety is to get possession of land; and a very
common contract here is to give them possession of land for two years,
for the sake of clearing. This they accept, and it invariably proves
a good bargain for the planter, and a poor one for the colored man.
You cannot reason with them, as you could were they possessed of
educated intelligence; for anything that is to occur in two years is
almost beyond their reckoning. ‘The care the planter extended to
them in slavery developed this improvidence for the future, and the
present is a much more important time for them than any other.
How much I wish the Government had apportioned them some con-
fiscated land at the close of the war. Had that been done, by this
time thrifty little farms would have been the result; but now they
live two years in a place until the land becomes productive, when
the planter takes possession again, and another two years’ labor must
be commenced that will end the same. I hope yet for some liberal
legislation, either through General or State Governments; but let
what will be done now,—much time has been lost. I consider the
schools have been the only systematic agency for permanent good, and
I hope every contributor to their support may have the feeling that
the money has not been wasted.

“An education bill is being passed in this State, that, during
another year, may get into working order, so as to relieve our friends
from the support of this school; but I hope this school year may be
continued under their auspices, so as to make no break in the contin-
uous training of these children. Some of our best scholars have left
this place to live in Charleston, and they have been sufficiently ad-
vanced to enter the best classes of the schools in that city. So our
school must have kept pace with theirs.

_“ We re-opened the schools at the beginning of the new year, and
the cotton season being past, they were large, and have continued with
a good average. Our unfinished building is being gradually brouglit
nearer to completion: Friends at Kennett Square, through Dr. Men-
denhall and H. Darlington, have furnished Mary P. Jacobs with
funds to put a good ceiling upon the large room up stairs, and Fanny
HK. Gauze, with the aid of relatives and friends, has much improved
the condition of hers. My contributions have put our class-room in
complete school order with black-boards all round the room, &e.; so
I feel quite contented with its present appearance, although we still
need books.

“Your school at Rickersville, which Isabella Lenair teaches, has
been prosperous, and has given great satisfaction to that neighborhood.
The Sewing School is of great interest to me still; it is now open
every afternoon, and the children are improving rapidly. Several
girls have determined to make dresses. We have tried to make the
school pay something, by taking in sewing; and some weeks our
dividends have gone up as high as seventeen cents each. That may

‘
10

not sound large in the North, but seventeen cents cash is hard to earn
here.

“Tn closing, I desire that Friends will sapport this school this
year out. Then, if the caterpillars do not attack their erops another
year, we will try to get along without their aid, though retaining
grateful hearts to them for their help in times of great need, and be-
lieving that they must feel a eonsciousness of having done a great
work for this community. Personally thanking all who have facili-
tated my labors here,

“T am sincerely their friend,” &e.

The subject of closing our schools, some of which are not to
be opened again, as well as the welfare of the Freedmen, claim-
ing attention, it was concluded to express our views in the
following

Ju DD RSS.

As the time draws near when our intercourse with you through
your faithful teachers must cease, or with some has already ceased,
we feel drawn closely towards you in anxious desires for your best
interests; and, first, in reference to your education, we entreat you to —
let no opportunity slip for improving your minds. Although you may
be deprived of the valuable assistance of your teachers, you can do
much to help one another: study your lessons with each other, what
one does not know, the other may, and in this manner you can not
help but improve. It may be slow, but be not discouraged; help will
come to those that help themselves.

You that have children, we beg of you to educate them as far as
lies in your power. If you ever expect to better your condition in
life, it must be by the attainment of knowledge; and this will not
come of itself,—it will only come of your own exertions. We repeat
then, educate your children, even if it costs you some sacrifice to ac-
complish it.

Another very important matter to which we would direct your
attention, is the condition of your homes. If you desire to be happy
in your family relations, make your homes as comfortable as possible;
keep them tidy and neat; make them the pleasantest places you can
find anywhere. By this means you will keep all the members of your
family around you, and your true enjoyment will be thus increased.

You that have wives, cherish them; do all in your power to make
their labors lighter. You that have husbands, it is also your duty to
endeavor to make ¢heir toils pleasant; see that their clothing, as well
as your own and your children’s, is kept in as good condition as you
possibly can. The better appearance you make in this particular, the

“more you’will respect yourselves, and the more others will respect you.

Be industrious and frugal; spend no money unnecessarily. Save

every cent of your earnings you can spare; looking towards owning

*-
11

in the future little homes of your own; or should sickness unfortu-
nately come upon you, these savings will provide you with many
comforts you could not otherwise obtain. In addition to all these
things, be truthful; be honest; under no circumstance depart from the
truth, or take as your own what does not belong to you.

Be temperate in everything: touch not a drop of intoxicating
drink of any kind. Shun the vice of drunkenness as you would a
pestilence; an indulgence in this habit will cause more ruin and
misery in yourselves and families, than even death itself. Avoid even
moderate drinking; touch not, taste not the unclean thing,—only in a
resolution of this kind will your safety consist.

The time is not far distant when you must take care of yourselves,
and if you do not now, as well as then, make the best of everything
at your command, much suffering will be your portion. By leading
lives of industry, both for yourselves and your children, you will
gradually obtain the respect of your white brethren, who will feel
more encouraged to lend you a helping hand than if they saw you
idle and dissolute.

We ask you to remember all your friends who have exerted
themselves on your behalf, and especially do we ask you to not forget
your kind teachers, who have toiled so incessantly and endured so
many privations for your good. While we claim nothing for ourselves,
and know that you have no pecuniary means of reward or payment,
we also know, that you can show your gratitude by making every
effort in your power to become self-dependent, and leading upright
Christian lives; only do this, and all will feel amply repaid.

Treat everybody well; resent not injuries, (for they will come,)
but be patient and kind to all.

We know you have much to contend with, but we also know our
Heavenly Father is near to all who humbly ask His assistance; not
in idleness or improper conduct, but in honest endeavors to do right.
To Him, therefore, we commend you, as we bid you farewell.

By direction of Friends’ Association of Philadelphia, for the Aid
and Elevation of the Freedmen, ;

JACOB M. ELLIS,

ANNIE COOPER,

Secretaries,
12

We herewith furnish a statistical account of the condition
of our schools during one of the winter months when our
complement was full; viz:—

VIRGINIA SCHOOLS.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

s ene
a HR
TEACHERS’ NAMES. gia] ale 4 = | #a
S/e|E/a(f18] 35 |
Royal J. Millard, . : . | 31} 19} 50} 43] 47] 40! 7 | 16
Raymond LeFevre, ; : 30; 9} 39) 24) 23) 13) 0 | 31
Ida Brinkerhoff, : : «ab 20) 221..47| 27) 36) 28] 0 | 29
Sarah E. Lloyd, . ; : 25] 26) 51) 51) 49! 41) 0 | 23
Josephine Baker, . . | 18} 35) 53! 26] 35) 12) 1 | 47
Sarah Hunsten, . : : 4 49} 19) 68) 35) 60) 55) 0 | 42
Harriet Jenkins, ; ; . | 36} 30) 66) 45) 42) 28) 0 | 55
Olive L. Grant, . ; : 24) 15) 39] 31| 24] 20) 0 | 27
Jennie Spear, ..: . . | 37| 19) 56) 52) 45) 26) 4 | 42
Totals for Virginia, 275)1941469/334'361/263) 12 |312

SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOLS.

TEACHERS’ NAMES, Sie ldleief#lela lee
Cornelia Hancock, Mt. Pleasant, | 10} 8] 18} 18) 18} 18) 0| 18
Mary P. Jacobs, ee 25| 20) 45) 45} 45] 45]. 0} 42
Frances E. Gauze, . x 27| 27| 54| 46) 49) 25) 8) 54
Isabella Lenair, Rigkersville, 26| 27| 53} 12) 0] 0} 13) 38

Totals for South Carolina, | 88) 821701211112] 88) 21152
Add Virginia, ; ; . |275|194/469/334/361/263] 12/312
Grand Totals, |363/276'639|455/473/351| 33/464

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We leave this matter with Friends, and trust that it may
meet a generous response. Influences either for good or evil
will always have place: already the result of our labor is appa-_
rent, and unmistakable proofs of its efficiency are constantly
furnished. It is for Friends to say whether this shall be con-
13

tinued. To do so, will require means: means with us are ample,
and need enly to be sent forth to accomplish their mission.

Let the coming season be one of greater activity than any
preceding it, that still more blessed results may follow: remem-
bering that “the poor ye have always with you,” that when ye
will, ye may do them good. _

 

ia 2
> >

TREASURER’S REPORT.

To Balance on hand Fifth month ist; 1869, °):. E 3 6 . $ 464 12
To Cash Subscriptions, : s H 2 2 ‘ 2,433 60
To Cash from Pennsylvania Abolition octets, : : i - 100 00
To Cash from Scholars for Books, “ 4 ‘ 2 91 29
To Cash from Interest, . g : ‘ a ° 45 00
To Cash from Freedmen’s Bureau for rental of Hituses, 785 00
$3,919 01
CR.

By Cash paid Teachers, . P 4 ; alien - $2,931 35

“ it) tor Books,: = . ‘ is 145 22
e “for Annual Report, Stahipe, ke. : 3 110 47—3 187 04
To Balance on hand Fifth month ist, 1870, . : i 4 - * $731 97

HENRY M. LAING, Treasurer,

Philadelphia, Fifth month 2nd, 1870. No. 30 N. Third Street.

Having compared the above account with his vouchers, we find it correct.

MORDECAI BUZBY,
CHARLES THOMAS,
Philadelphia, Fifth month 2nd, 1870. Auditors.
14

CASH CONTRIBUTIONS

Friends of Philadelphia, . $1145

ef Gwynned, Pa, . 19
eae Chester, N.J., . 60
tf New Garden, Pa., 6

¢ London Grove, Pa., 3

tf Wilmington, Del., 60
iP Kennett Square, Pa. 12
A Riverton, N.J.,. 33
+f Fallowfield, Pa., 22
- Third Haven, Md., 20
= West Grove, Pa., 8
At Byberry, o 85
Ai Doylestown, ‘“ 17
ae Buckingham, “ 23
Medford, N. J., 2
ag Darby, Pa., Sista
iy Pilesgrove, N.J., 30
ft Makefield, Pa., 23
ee Goshen, ‘“ oo
e Solebury, ‘“ 25
if Abington, “ 59
“ Mullica Hill, N.J., 15
+ Mansfield, tf Il
ds Chesterfield, ‘“ 31
it Alloway Creek, N.J. 9
ce Hockessin, Del., 15
2 Fallsington, Pa., 7
i Caln, Pa., : 15
Rf Woodbury, N.J., 32
Children of Mt. Pleasant, S.C. 48
r Woodlawn, Va., 36
if Gum Springs, Va., 6

U.S. Government, Rent of School

Houses, 785
Balance of Interest, . 45
S.8., Fairburg, Ill, . : 8
John Worth, : : i 5

 

FROM

90 | Jacob Hayes, i $2
10 | Reuben Wilson, Millville, Pa., 5
25 | A Friend, 10
00 | J. Kirk, per J. M. T. In, 5
00 | H. Jenkins, Falls Church, Va., 5
00 | Thomas Woodnut, Ind., 10
50 | Lydia Seal, Delaware, . Yee
00 | Estate of Jos. D. Thurston, . 50
00 | Elida Johns, Sterling, Ill., 5
00 | Charles W. Pierce, 2 10
00 | Philena Heald, N.Y., . 10
00 | A Friend, per D. Parrish, . 100
00 | Lydia White, is OO
25 | Penn’a Abolition Society, - 100
00 | A Friend, Gwynned, Pa., 1
00 | Annie Wright, Adams Co., Pa. 1
15 1D. Dy Wright, Niwa oe 28
00 | S. Mosher, West Liberty, Iowa, 10
75 | Joel J. Bailey, : é seaO
00 | I. Humphries Mcllvaine, ~ia20
00 | Joshua T. Jeanes, i = 10
35 | C. Gue, West Branch, Iowa, 5
00 | H. Clark, New York, . oft 26
35 | A Friend, Newtown, Pa. . 2
00 | R. M., Lower Makefield, Pa., 6
00 | Freedmen’s Association, City, 10
00 | A Friend, per S. T. C., . 17
00 | Duanesburg, ‘ cee
50 | S. L. Crozier, Upland, Pa., <i) 26
42 | Emmor Crozier, ‘“ “25
37 | George Jenkins, ‘ eae
50 | A Friend of Humanity, Mike

S.W. Doughten, Lumberton, N.J. 5
00 | Sarah Hoopes, . . Leo
00 | Martha Dodgson, . . LO
00 | Elizabeth Bunting, i aoe
00 | P. H. C., Mount Holly, . tees

00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
50
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
p

15

During the year we received donations of Bibles, Testaments,
Papers, etc., from Frienps’ Brsite and Tract DIsTRIBUTING
Association. Also, barrels of Clothing from JaNE HAL,
Hestonville; Clothing from Lyp1a Paxson, Lyp1a S. Truman,
Mary Brans, Etten M. Cuinps, Anna T. Larne, FRIENDS
at Yardleyville, Annie Wrieut, York, Pa., FRIENDS at By-
berry, Lyp1a Waits, Lizzin Sureve, Mitton Wrient, Saran
Parrisu, Frienps at Horsham, SALLiz CoopEr’s Scnoot, and
others.

Twenty-five barrels of Clothing, ete., were forwarded to
CorNELIA Hancock, Mary P. Jacoss, and Fannie E. Gauze,
South Carolina; Saran A. STEER, HARRIET JENKINS, SALLIE
E. Luoyp, O. L. Grant, and W. P. PowEtt, Va.; JosEPHINE
GRIFFING, Washington, D.C.; and L. Evans, Maryland.
16

In giving a summary of the work of the Association from
its origin, it is impossible to form a correct estimate of its com-
plete operations, from the fact, that numerous valuable contri-
butions of Garments, Books, Seeds, Sanitary Stores, &c., were
forwarded without an accurate inventory being had of them.

With regard to the funds expended for educational purposes
we would say, that although we have but thirteen schools in
active operation at the present time, we have had at other |
periods of our history a greater number, and have assisted
others by small donations,—while, through the assistance and
influence of our teachers, Night and First-day schools have
been established in various neighborhoods, the books for which
have been supplied by the “Friends Bible and Tract Distribu-
ting Association.”

Amoont paid Teachers; 9.2. 4 J SZEO1G
ay ** for Books, : : ; 2,173
e © for Deedms. 4 ; : é 174

+ “* for Sanitary Stores, . ; 2,990

ae ‘* for Material for Clothing, - 80,760
. ‘“< for Expenses, Reports, Xc., 1,027
ac ac

for Donations to Asylums, &c., 2,300

 

Tote ae

 

No, of Schools (whole namber), . f 25
‘¢ Schools at present, . ‘ 13
“ Boxes and Barrels feewardod ae 416
“New Garments, . ; ; r 26,410
“« Part-worn Garments, . ‘ - 21,800

. Besides a large quantity forwarded of which no account was
taken. Neither does this include the clothing made up for the
‘Pennsylvania Freedmen’s Association.”
 

¥
|

 

Sc ean Mion: Cet Seer gene ues oe
o o
@

SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT

a 80,

OF THE

FRIEND'S ASSOGIATLON -

OF

PHILADELPHIA,

FOR THE

fid and flovation of the Preadmen,

PHILADELPHIA:
BRINCKLOE & MAROT, PRINTERS,
23 Norru Sixtu Street.

1871.

et

 

 

 

 

 

 
SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT

OF THE

FRIEND'S. ASSOCIATION

OF

PHILADELPHIA,

FOR THE

Aid and flovation of the fresdmen,

PHILADELPHIA:
BRINCKLOE & MAROT, PRINTERS,
23 Nortru Sixtu Street.

1871. —
OFFICERS.

SECRETARIES,

JACOB M. ELLIS, 325 Walnut Street.
ANNIE COOPER, 1733 Filbert Street.

Corresponding Secretary.

ELLEN M. CHILDS, 634 Race Street.

TREASURER, |
HENRY M. LAING, 30 North Third Street.

 

STANDING COMMITTEES,

Education Committee.

Jacosp M. Etus,
Lypia GILLineHaM,
ALtrrEeD H. Loyr,
Epita W. Aten,
Henry M. Larne,

Lucretia Mort,
Marrua Dopeson,
Harriet E. Srock.ey,
JosepH M, Truman, Jr.,
Lovisa J. Roserts.

Collecting Committee.

Saran K. GinLineHam,
Wiiram C. Brpptez,
CHARLES Evans,

Jacos M. Exuis,
Witi1am Heacock,
Henry M. Liana,
Anna M, Cuizps,
Louisa J. Roperts,

Dituwyn Parris,

T. E. Cuapman,
ANNA SHOEMAKER,
Evizasetu J. Ferris,
ALFRED H, Love,

W. J. GILiineHam,
THoMAS GARRIGUES,
Epita W. AtiEe.

AUDITORS,

Morpecar Buszy,

CHarites THOMAS.
de eo OD Ets As

“ The Association of Friends of Philadelphia for the Aid and
Elevation of the Freedmen,” in presenting the Seventh Annua
Report to the friends of the Freedmen, feel, that while they hav
pursued the even tenor of their way quietly, and it may be, wit
less publicity than formerly, and even with less manifestation
of interest among Friends generally, that the work is a
good one, and that the labor bestowed in its prosecution
during the past year has met with a corresponding reward.

What though discouragements may have arisen, do not
these pervade every position in life, and every undertaking
either for our own gratification, or for the well-being and benefit
of others? Though these may for a time depress, they should
never be allowed to prevent our persevering in the fulfilment o
every duty, but rather stimulate us to renewed exertion. We
are, however, gratified in the belief that as to the results that
have been realized in this especial field of labor, we have had no
cause for discouragement, and that the disinterested efforts of
the friends of the down-trodden have been especially blest ; being
comforted by the assurance that where these desirable results
have not been immediately apparent they will, “like bread cast
upon the waters, be found after many days.”

So much has been said with regard to the utility and neces,
sity of education, that we need not here r@iterate either these,
or the claims that the ignorant and poverty stricken have upon
their more fortunate fellow beings for assistance in the realiza-
tion of this inestimable boon.

Friends, as a people, have always professed to be the friends
of the oppressed and the down-trodden, whose poverty may have
4

crushed out almost every hope, and, therefore to Friends do
such oftimes instinctively turn for help in their time of need.

But to our work of giying an account of our stewardship
during the past year; for truly we do feel that we have been
stewards in that we have had committed to our care the means
of doing good, (though, we have painfully 10 confess, in too lim-
ited a measure,) and that a higher power than our own finite
wisdom has'constituted us stewards in a still more exalted sense,
by placing before us a field white unto harvest, wherein to labor.

The following is a list of the schools we have had, either
entirely under our care, or to which we have rendered such pe-

cuniary assistance as seenred their maintenance, and without
which they would not have been sustained :

Titles of Schools. Teacher’s Names.

Localities.
Mt. Pisgah, Mary Anderson, (colored) Port Tobacco, Md.
Denton, Rebecea M. Tyler, Denton, Md.
Woodlawn, M. A. Davenger, Acotink, Va.
oer Hannah W. Cox, os
Gum Spring, Hannah V. Gibbs, Gum Spring, Va.
Fairfield, Emma Haslem, Fairfield, Va.
Waldo, F. E. Gauze, Gainsville Fla.
Falls Church, Hannah Jenkins, (colored) Falls Church, Va.
Frying Pan, Calista Baker, Herndon, Va.
Manasses, Lavina Chase, Manasses, Va.
Olive Branch, 0. L. Grant, (colored) "
ft D. L. Stewart, (colored) ms
Chapel Spring, Catherine Nichols, (colored) Ae
Macedonia, Simon J. R. Nelson, “ $c
Mt. Pleasant, Cornelia Hancock, near Charleston, S. C,
" Abby D. Munro, 6 &
Richersville, Isabella Lenair, (colored) “ s

It will be seen from the above schedule, that seven of the
teachers are colored.

‘To the teachers of these schools we have also extended such
advice and encouragement as seemed appropriate, and the
monthly reports received from them have not only kept us ap-
prised of the condition of their respective schools, but have sat-
isfied us of theirfaithfulness and integrity of purpose in the work
in which they have engaged. The obloquy and discourtesy to
which some of these have been subjected, has entitled them to
our warmest sympathies, and we cannot but commend them
5

for the dignity which has so generally characterized their move-
ments.

Partially, owing to irregularities in the statistical matter
furnished in their monthly reports, growing out of the use by
some of them of blanks furnished ly the State, differing some-
what from our own in the character of the information required,
we cannot present so perfectly a condensed statement as we would
desire. We, however, give the following as the report of a
portion of them for one of the months of the past year, as ex-
tracted from our minutes, viz:

Reports from the teachers of ten schools presented the fol-
lowing aggregates for the second month as nearly as could be
ascertained, a portion of the figures being estimated :

 

 

 

 

Bw mete eh See

|. > . re

: 5 ;| 81 2] 2
TEACHER'S NAMES. LOCALITIES. Ce iret Saag ¥§ ©
6] §| Fl a) a 38

Al ea| El] 4d] 4] a

Frances E. Gauze|Gordon, Florida, | 39) 35] 39] 17| 6) 38
Two Schools at |Mt. Pleasant, 71| 49| 40] 34|. 4! 69
Harriet. Jenxins,| Falls Church, 77| 741 65| 641 O| 47
Hannau W. Cox,} Woodlawn, 65; 49; 49| 49; 46) 41
Cauista Baker, |Frying Pan, 25) 25} 25/*20]): o| *2
M. . Nicuots, /|Prince William Co.| 29) 17)*17\*15| 0} 20
O. L. Grant, Manasses, 231 2 2. M.. gl ot
J. R. Nixtson, Dunfries, Bot Al Su, At et a0
DANIEL Stewart, |Prince William Co.| 37/ 37} 295! 26! 2) 31
Lavinia Cuasg, |Prince William Co. 59) 59) 42] 32} 3) 48
450/851/306|259| 65/367

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

* Estimated.

Our faithful co-worker, Groree C. Rounp, i in an appeal made
to us for pecuniary aid for Manasses and vicinity, wrote :

“T have started jive new colored schools in this County
during the past winter. They will all have to cease during the
summer, unless I can obtain help from outside. This point
(Manasses) i is, however, the most central and important. With
many thanks for your past kindness and generosity, and that of
your Society,” &.

;
6

To this appeal we responded by making an appropriation,
to be paid monthly, in aid of each school, and our experience has
satisfied us of the wisdom of the movement; he having subse-
quently given the following list of schools as being continued
with our assistance:

Manasses, containing at that time 59 Pupils.

Pottsylvania, * nS 30 i
Olive Branch, ee iy 25 +
Chapel Springs, “ " 25 ff
Macedonia, " 3 22 ms

Some time since, the Association issued an address, not only
to the late pupils of its schools, but to the Freedmen generally,
containing such advice as to their present and future condition,
in a domestic as well as educational point of view, as the occasion
seemed to demand. These have been sent to the various points
to which our labors have been especially directed, and it is to be
hoped some benefit will result from the movement.

To show that a lively interest in these schools is still felt
by the freedman themselves, we quote from the reports of some
the teachers recently received.

That of Falls Church, taught by Harriet JenxK1ns, (colored)
enrolls 67 pupils, of which number 44 are between 6 and 16 years
of age. Of the whole number, 66 read, a large portion write,
64 are in arithmetic, 24in geography, while 18 are studying
grammer.

The teacher queries thus :—

‘‘T would like to know if there is any hope of getting any more
books—if so, will you please let me know ? The children have gath-
ered together more old books, of different kinds, than I had any idea
could be found in the neighborhood, each claiming a right to be taught
out of all such books as he or she chooses te bring to school.””

Frances E. Gavuzz reports in reference to the school under
her care, recently established at Gordon, Alancha Co., Florida,
77 pupils on the roll, with the excellent average attendance of
62.

Although this school has existed so short a time, the whole
of the scholars can now spell, while 55 read and 30 are in arith-
metic, &c. She also adds, é

‘*T am afraid I will not be able to raise more than ten dollars per
7

month among the colored people. Iam taxing them twenty cents a
piece, and they all seem willing to give that.

“* Yesterday I visited eight families:; they are all settled on land,
but have not paid for it yet, although ‘hey are in a fair way of doing
well when they once get a fair start. I called on one old couple aged
92 and 80 respectively. They are very smart, and appear to have
every thing around them to make them comfortable. Uncle Cesar,
(aged 92) makes shoes, tubs, buckets, &c., and comes to First-day
School, seldom missing a day !

‘It is very pleasant to go round amongst these people and re-
ceive the small tokens of their friendship. One place I visited, they
were weaving their cloth or homespun, they say it takes a month to
weave one piece.

‘‘How much patience and labor it requires merely to get a little
clothing to wear. They are aiming to raise cotton enough to clothe
themselves, Further than that they seem to think it does not pay.

‘‘ How the spirit of self dependence permeates them—and how
the industrial education that has been bestowed upon them is begin-
ning to bring forth good fruit.” -

CaroLine THomas, formerly in our employ, after delineat-
ing the position she occupies with her school, being, to some
extent, independent of the Government officials, remarks :—

‘* T sometimes fear the free schools, in many cases, will not result
in much good to the colored people. For instance, in the Leesburg
district there are five schools for the whites and only one for the
colored population, although the trustees of this district seem inclined
to do the tair thing as regards an equal distribution for the two races,
Some days I think my school is very interesting, and that I wouid
like some of my friends at the North to step in; at other times I feel
disheartened fora season, especially when a large, full-grown man
cannot spell ‘ b-o-o-k,? or when so many of them make so many errors
in arithmetic.’

She, closes with a feeling allusion to the death of the late
THomas. GaRRETT, having the assurance that “the messenger
found him ready for the summons.” We are always pleased to
hear from this faithful laborer, and hope the mutual interest
now felt may ever continue.

Our energetic friend, CHALKLEY GILLINGHAM, writes from
Woodlawn, and thus acknowledges an appropriation made by
our Association :—

‘Please accept my hearty thanks to all the Friends concerned,
8

This enables us to keep a free school until the 1st of Seventh month
next, and without it we could not have inaugurated it. We haye
now about 64 pupils on the list at each school (Gum Springs and
Woodlawn), both in fine condition, and the scholars making progress
in their studies,’

More recently Assy D. Monro, one of the teachers at Mt.

Pleasant, S. C., writes :—

‘Tam pleased with the school, with the eagerness of the children
to progress, and think I may truly reportitina prosperous condition,’?

It has been remarked “that trifles make up the world,’’ so
‘little acts” often express much, as may be confirmed by the
following extract from a letter received from Frances BE. GAUZE,
after closing her school for the summer vacation :—

‘*T felt very sorry to leave my little band of pupils. When I told
them we would have no more school this summer, they seemed really
very much disappointed, and one little boy came to me and said, ‘Miss
Fannie, if you were not going so soon I would have a melon for you.’
Another one that is just learning to write in a book, said,‘ Miss Fan-
nie, lam going to write to you.?, The day I left, a little boy came
with a great bucket of potatoes, saying his mother sent them. And
thus they manifest their affection. I can truly say that my school is
in a much better condition that it was when I went there, both for
cleanliness and progress, &c.”?

The following extract from a letter received about the same
time from Mary P, Jacoss, of one of the South Carolina schools,
is indicative of the motives actuating our teachers—(mark the
gratitude for the privilege) :—

‘The time for closing school is near at hand. We will soon be
with dear friends at home again. I hope we have accomplished some
good at least, during our sojourn here ; and to those who haye given
us this privilege, I, for one, feel very grateful. Though we may not live
to see the good we do, there is a reward for us all in the end,”’

Isapore BrinKERHorF writes from Herndon in reference to
the anxiety of the scholars for the continuance of the school.

‘* They ask if they cannot have the school one more month ;lam
sure I shall have thirty pupils. I love to teach them very much, they
are so attentive.’

JOSEPHINE Baxer, at Gum Springs, is very earnest in her
expressions that her efforts may be crowned with “ success,’
and a hope that no negligence on her part may prevent her pupils
from advancing as rapidly as possible.
9

Our indefatigable teacher at Mount Pleasant, S. C., accom- —
panies her last report with a letter which contains so much of

interest that we give it entire:
**MountT PLEASANT, SoUTH CAROLINA, \
4th Month, 18th, 1871.

“Dear Frrenps:—Your school here has been continued this
year with more noticeable success than heretofore. It has not increas-
ed in numbers, but in quality that goes to make a good school. Those
determined to become educated now constitute the school.

**The State has done nothing for the education of its poor, ex-
cept, in some districts, to employ teachers who have taught 6 months
without a cent of compensation.

‘“*Such injustice can hardly result in good. This school could
not have been continued this year except through the aid given by
Friends, and to perfect the good commenced, the support will have to
be continued to keep up the elevating influences over these children.

‘*They have become almost, as you may say, wards of the Asso-
ciation, that to leave now would not be right. They are the same
children that were taken up by you five years ago, unclothed in body
and mind, and raised to the enjoyment of ideas, and in every way a
better condition. It has not been a school with changing scholars.

‘*These people are wedded to the spot in which they were born ;
and this is a good thing fora school. I could have hardly worked
for changing children as I have felt to do for these. The new teacher
here this year has been zealous in establishing a First-day School,
and her efforts have beeen successful ; I think it numbers over seven-
ty scholars, and they all look so happy when they assemble, it is a
pleasing sight. A night school has been open most of the year, about
20 scholars in attendance; the grown people, of course, have many
home cares, and it is impossible for them to give that strict attention
that we enjoin upon the day scholars; but the progress, for the time
they have been able to give, is encouraging. Four little boys, forced
to leave the day school to earn their living, deserve especial mention.

‘* They have scarcely missed a night this winter, and have learned
division in arithmetic. I know it is their own will to come, for they
are all either motherless or fatherless, and are their own directors.
They always bring life into the school with their presence. They
are very poor ; the things that grow upon the beach and are washed
upon the shore from wrecked ships being their principal dependence.
I always look for them on the beach after a storm, and many are the
treasures they find, and their knowledge of the water is very enter-
taining. Speaking of the poverty, it is really little we know of how
very much hunger and real destitution there is in the South. ©
10

‘‘The colored people, it seems to me, have got used to living al-
most upon nothing, and I often think their ability to do so will be
against their becoming energetic. However, I cannot in truth say
the children are not energetic. They are marvels of perseverance
to me. They are willing to come to day school five hours; then sew
in the sewing-school untii nearly dark, and after that walk into the
country. And this too, without the dinner basket that generally ac-
campanies the children of our Northern country schools. I have one
very decided objection to living in the South, and that is, one must
be such a constant witness to the struggles of these people with all
manner of injustice, and there are so few people that are their friends:

‘Their ignorance and their long habit of submitting makes them
bear rather than rebel, They work on the plantation for fifty cents
per day, and that they are obliged to deal out at plantation stores,
and they certainly do not get forty cents for what they expect
fifty. This is what we are trying to establish for their benefit in the
sewing-school, a store at which they can receive justice ; but it is very
up-hill work, for the planters will not pay them in money with which
they can purchase where they choose but compel them to buy with
tickets they issue in their (the planters’) store; so they have here a
sort of half-freedom still,

** T ask for aid for this store, that we may at least be able to bene-
fit our school children. The Boston Association, through Abbie
Francis, have most of the year paid a small salary to a colored woman
who has instructed the children in sewing.

‘The school-room has been rendered more comfortable and com-
plete by contributions from the friends of our present teacher, Abbie
D. Monro, Samuel Willetts, Gideon Frost and James Willetts have
each given funds to the school.

‘‘Tam much indebted to two Philadelphia Friends especially,
who have enabled me to keep life in the sewing-school, by timely do-
nations of money.

“Through the influence of Mary Beans, goods have also been sent |
to the sewing-school. At Christmas time a number of friends kindly
furnished the materials for making the children a good Christmas
tree.

‘* For all these means of elevating and encouraging these people
that have been put at my disposal, I feel thankful to friends separately
- and collectively, and in conclusion would recommend that schools al-
ready commenced and influenced by you should be kept in operation,
so as to permanently secure the good already done, rather than new
fields opened. I have less faith now than last year that the State
Governments will act conscientiously toward the colored people in
11

opening schools for them, and therefore cannot hope these schools will
be supported by other aid than yours.
**Sincerely your Friend,
(Signed), CORNELIA HANCOCK,
*¢ Box 262, Charleston, S. C.”

All the schools at and near Manasses are doing well. 8, J.
R. Witson, the teacher at Dumfries, remarks:

‘**The school is prospering finely, very little is wanting to make
it permanent, every appearance indicates success.’

Lavinia CuaAse adds to her report:

‘‘There is a gradual falling off in the number of scholars as the
season advances ; many are obliged to leave school and go to work.
We have a Sunday school—the weather has been unfavorable for it so
far this spring. But the children seem anxious to attend, and no
doubt we shall have a full attendance now that the weather is warm.”?

Dantet Stewart, also at Manasses, forwards a good re-
port, with 37 pupils on the roll; all read, and all write except
four.

Katie Nicuors, of School No. 3, has 25 scholars, all of
whom read except four.

Oxrve L. Grant continues his faithful exertions as formerly
in behalf of the school now located at Gainsville.

CauistA Baker, writes from “ Frying Pan,” Fairfax Co., Va.:

‘* The colored people here received three hundred dollars from the
Freedman’s Bureau last fall to build a school house, which was just
enough to buy the timber, the windows and door. They hewed all
the /umber themselves for the frames, and drew the lumber from
Herndon.

‘* The house is 20x30 feet, and standsin nearly the same place the
old one did, It has three large windows on each side, but yet re-
mains without plastering. The colored people havea deed for the
school-house site, which is to belong to them as long as it is used for
a school and place of worship.”

We believe the following comprehensive review of the prac-
tical workings of one of the departments of our Government,
that Friends ever looked upon as of almost inestimable value,

is well worth republication here:
From the Pall Mali Gazette.

THE “FREEDMEN’S BUREAU” IN THE UNITED STATES.

The annual report of the United States Secretary of War, dated
November 20th, 1869, contains, among other valuable papers, a re-
12

port made to his department by Major-General Howard, Commis-
sioner of the Freedman’s Bureau, which is of peculiar interest to those
desirous of ascertaining, through impartial evidence, the progress and
prospects of the great experiment of slave emancipation. The Bu-
reau is now winding up its work. It was closed for general purposes
early last year. It is only continued for certain ‘‘educational’’ pur-
poses, for the settlement of negro soldiers’ claims to bounty, and for
the maintenance of a small number of hospitals which still contain
inmates. The time has, therefore, arrived for taking, as General
Howard does in this paper, a general review of its operations.

Great efforts have been made by charitable ‘associations during
the last years of the war, to relieve the misery which prevailed among
the many thousand colored refugees from the Southern States, and
outcasts who remained on properties abandoned by their owners un-
der the pressure of hostilities. But it was felt that more was needed
than charity could furnish, and that not only casual support was
required, but organization and drill. With these views the ‘‘Act to
establish a Bureau for the Relief of Freedmen and Refugees’? was
passed in March, 1865, and committed to the new department the
control of all subjects relating to refugees and freedmen from rebel
States, under such rules and regulations as may be prescribed by the
head of the Bureau aud approved by the President.

‘¢ This almost unlimited authority (says Gen. Howard, with par-
donable pride) gave me great scope and liberty of action, but at the -
same time it imposed upon me very perplexing and responsible duties.
Legislative, judicial and executive powers were combined in my com-
mission, reaching all the interests of four millions of people, scattered
over a vast territory, living in the midst of another people claiming to
be superior, and known not to be altogether friendly.”

It was, indeed, a desperate ‘‘ cauldron,” to all appearance, into
which the General and his assistants were plunged.

‘In every State many thousands were found without employ-
ment, without homes, crowding into the towns and about military
posts, where they hoped to find protection and supplies. The sudden
collapse of the rebellion, making emancipation an actual universal
fact, was like an earthquake. It shattered and shook the whole social
system. It broke up the old industries, and threatened a reign of an-
archy. Even the well-disposed and humane land-owners were ata
loss what to do, or how to begin the work of re-organizing society .
and of rebuilding their ruined fortunes. Very few had any knowledge
of free labor, or any hope that their former slaves would serve them
faithfully for wages. On the other hand, the freed people were in a
state of great excitement and uncertainty. .... Many were afraid
to remain on the same soil that they had tilled as slaves, lest by any
trick they might find themselves again in bondage. Others supposed
that the Government would either take the entire supervision of their
labor and support, or divide among them the lands of conquered
rebels, and furnish them with all that might be necessary to begin
life as independent farmers.’

Under the pressure of the enormous mass of business thus thrown
upon him, General Howard had the good sense to perceive that this
was not a case for fixed uniformity of system,

‘‘ No one minute system of rules could have been rigidly adhered
13

to, and applied in every part of the Southern country. I therefore
set forth clearly the objects to be attained and the powers which the
Bureau could legally exercise, and left it to my subordinates to devise
suitable measures for effecting these objects.??

The first object to be effected was the relief of actual misery :
housing, clothing, food, hospitals, dispensaries. Thanks, however, to
good management—for which we give the Bureau all credit—but
more, we suspect, to the rapidly recuperative powers of American
society, this part of the operations to be performed was, after all, com-
paratively easy.

“The exhibit of rations and clothing furnished (says the General)
shows that the Bureau has not been a pauperizing agency. It has
not encouraged idleness and yagrancy. It has not existed for the
benefit of able-bodied beggars. The wonder is not that so many, but
that so few have needed help; that of the four million people thrown
suddenly upon their own resources, only one in about two hundred
has been an object of public charity, and nearly all who have received
aid have been persons who, by reason of age, infirmity, or disease,
would be objects of ee in any State, and at any time.”

To re-establish the labor market was a more perplexing task :

‘* The majority of planters were anxious to cultivate their land,
and their former slaves were equally anxious to earn an honest liv-
ing ; but each class naturally distrusted the other. I was appealed
to for a settlement of this great labor question. Letters from all
parts of the country vrenuape me and my assistant commissioners to
to enforce a specific rate of wages, and to exercise power in one way
or another over the laborer to compel him to work. Allsuch appeals
were resisted. Officers and agents of the Bureau were instructed to
do all in their power to remove prejudice, to restore mutual confi-
dence, and to quicken and direet ihe industry of the people. At the
same time they were cautioned against giving countenance to any
substitute for slavery. Negroes must be free to choose their employ-
ers. No fixed rate of wages will be prescribed, but the law of supply
and demand must govern.’?

A system of written contracts was introduced wherever this could
be done.

‘* No compulsion was used, but all were advised to enter into writ-
ten agreements and submit them to an officer of the Bureau for ap-
proval. The nature and obligation of these contracts were carefully
explained to the freedmen, and a copy filed in the office of the agent
approving it, for their use in case any difficulty should arise between
them and their employers. In a single State, not less than 50,000 such
contracts were drawn in duplicate, and filled up with the names of all
the parties ”

A body of evidence is adduced from the reports of assistant com-
missioners to show the working of this simple arrangement in differ-
ent localities :—

**It is confirmed by the fact that the great mass of freedmen are
now self supporting, and that many haye commenced planting and
other business on their own account. In spite of all disorders that
have prevailed, and the misfortunes that have fallen upon many parts
of the South, a good degree of prosperity and success has already been
attained, To the oft repeated slander that the negroes will not work
14

and are incapable of taking care of themselves, it is a sufficient an-
swer that their voluntary labor has produced nearly all the food that
has supported the whole people, besides a large amount of rice, sugar,
and tobacco for export, and two millions bales of cotton each year. .
It is not claimed that this result is wholly due to the care and over-
sight of this Bureau, but it is safe to say, as it has been said repeat-
edly by intelligent Southern men, that without the Bureau, or some
similar agency, the material interests of the country would have
greatly suffered, and the Government would have lost a far greater
amount than has been expended in its maintenance.”

A large scheme has been entertained of making over to the Bu-
reau all ‘‘abandoned” lands: ‘solely for the purpose of assigning,
leasing, or selling them to refugees and freedmen :’? but before this
could be carried into effect, an order of President Johnson stopped the
proceeding, and directed the restoration of ‘‘abandoned ”? property to
its former owners, on their exhibiting pardons or taking certain oaths,

‘Something has been done in this direction, however, by the bold
measure of opening for entry, by colored and white men, without dis-
tinction, all the public lands in the States of Alabama, Mississippi,
Louisiana, Arkansas and Florida. Next toa proper religious and
intellectual training (says the General) the one thing needful to the
freedmen is land aud a home. Without that, a high degree of civili-
zation and moral culture is scarcely possible.’

‘This is a thoroughly American opinion. It is by no means that
which prevails in the governing class of West Indian society.

The subject of the progress of education among the colored people
is but slightly touched on, having been treated at length in former
reports. As to keeping order among them, and affording them pro-
tection against injustice, ‘*‘ the methods pursued have differed accord-
ing to circumstances.”?. . .- In all important cases, where civil
courts existed, they were firstresorted to ; but when such courts would
not admit the testimony of negroes, nor treat them as equals before
the law with whites, appeal was made to military tribunals, or under
the Civil Rights Bill of 1866 to the United States Courts.

‘* Tt is estimated that more than 100,000 complaints were heard
and acted upon by the Bureau officers in a single year. The reports
of murders, assaults, and outrages of every desvription were so numer-
ous, and so full of horrible details, that at times one was inclined to
believe the whole white population engaged in a war of extermination
against the blacks, But careful investigation has proved that the
worst outrages were generally committed by small bands of lawless
men, organized under various names, whose principal objects were
robbery and plunder. . . . Noone can tell what scenes of violence
and strife and insurrection the whole South might have presented
without the presence of this agency of the Government to preserve
order and to enforce justice. Several officers and agents haye been
severely wounded, and some have lost their lives in this service.”

Such, and so successful has been the Institution which has done
its best to keep the peace and to establish free industry in the South
during the last few years. It is impossible not to feel regret and mis-
giving at the prospect of its dissolution. Such an intermediate au-
thority between ex-masters and ex slaves seems to have been the ye
thing demanded by the crisis, And we wish we could be satisfied

,
15

that the crisis was sufficiently at an end to allow the seeds of good
order which it has left behind to germinate in safety.

In connection with this report, we may appropriately intro-
duce the account of the “ Freedmen’s Saving’s Banks” as given
by a daily paper:

‘* The Freedmen’s Saving’s Banks are reported to be in a pros-
perous condition. In 1865, the Freedmen’s Saving’s Bank of Wash-
ington, D. C., received less than $1000 a day, and during 1869, the
daily deposits amounted to $14,000. It had on March 1, 1866, an
aggregate of $199,283 on deposit, which was increased to $1,657,006
on March Ist, 1870. At the various branches, thirteen of the twen-
i ths cashiers are colored men. The New Orleans Saying’s Bank is
the largest branch, and the Institution at Vicksburg, Mississippi,

ranks next.. These statistics indicate that the colored people are in-
dustrious, economical and provident of the future.”

With this imperfect sketch of the labors of the Association
during the past year, and herein recording our appreciation of
the faithful exertions of the teachers, without which on their
parts, our efforts could not have been thus blessed, we
close,—not, however, without directing the attention of all who
may peruse this report, to the rapid advances made by the col-
ored people towards a self support, their ardent desires for edu-
cation, and so far as appears, a rectitude of conduct that, under
the circumstances of their vicious surroundings, both past and
present, is truly remarkable.

And thus, an important question instinctively arises. Shall
this people be deserted at this crisis? They still need our
coun-:el and assistance; and it rests entirely with their friends
and our friends, as to whether their aspirations shall be respond-
ed to; to effect which, pecuniary aid will be required. Shall we
have it?

 

During the year we have received donations of Bibles, Testa-
ments, Books, Papers, &c., from Frienps’ Brste AnD Tract Dis_
TRIBUTING ASSOCIATION, PENN, ABOLITION SocrEeTy, Mary Bgans,
H, M. Laine, Hannan L. Srickney, Sarau S. Truman, Eien M.
Cuitps, and Saran G. Wayne; Candy from Gro. Minter; Dry
Goods from Friends, per Mary Bzans; Clothing from Pumzna
Heap, JanE Hatt, Hestonville, Pa., ANNiz Wriaut, Columbia,
Pa., A. T. Latna, and others.

Philadelphia, 5 Mo. 1, 1871.

All of which were forwarded to Franczs HE. Gavzz, Florida,
Harrier Jenkins, Va,, Cornetia Hancock, Isapen Lena,
S. C., G. C. Rounp, Va.
16

TREASURER’S REPORT.

DR.
5 Mo. 1, 1870. —To Balance as per last report, . . 6 wee ae
To Cash from Friends of Penns Grove, ; 8 65
e New Garden, . 4 00
" 7 Ch ja MOROGERS 6. ep 10 00
sis ied 46 London Grove, ‘ 2 00
‘te. . Hap i ee A 3 is » 7 50
st rm ~ Abington, . : ° 3 00
Mie “ « ‘Wakefield, . . 5 00
. wr Philadelphia, : - 712 00
‘* Samuel Jeanes, ° 4 100 00
, fe eas Petia atten 45 00
at on ea: Truman, ‘ : . 10 00
* ‘* Esther Justice, . . : ° 10 00
Af t Qi Wi..: Peirce, i ‘ : 10 00
m ‘< J.J. Bailey, . ‘: : ‘ 5 00
r ‘6 W. D. Jones, . : . 5 00
4d P  WVaey Stabler, | 0 cis : 3 5 00
na ss Jane Johnson, : , 20 00
hg * D. Parrish, : is ° : 30 00
by “ Joshua T. Jeanes, . 50 00
. “ Pa. Abolition Soc. per D. Parrish, 100 00
i ue) AE OU Lb, : * 35 00
* s¢ Rob’t Mosher, Cardington, Ohio, 4 50
46 ‘s Thomas Woodnut, Ind., ‘ 20 00
dated ‘* Sarah Hoopes, West Chester, ra, 5 00
" ‘¢ Martha Dodgson, Darby, Pa., 10 00
ne “¢ Anna Wright, Columbia, Pa., 2 00

<6 “6
“s ‘“c
“i “6
“6 _ 6
s6 “c
“ “6

6 “c
sc sé

Jas. B. Wright, Eatontown, N. J., 20 00
Caroline M. Reeves, Richmond, Ind., 20 00

Jane Hall, Hestonville, Pa., 5 00
Aaron Shaw, Fairburg, Iils., 2 00
Jos. Kinsey, Cincinnati, Ohio, 25 00

Freedmen’s Bureau, bal. of Rental
of School- Houses, ; 870 00
8. L. Crozer, . . ‘ \ 20 00

Emma C, Knowles, : : 25 00
$2437 62
CR.

5 Mo. 1, 1871. —By. Cash paid Teachers, f - $1777 70

sé
< 6s

By direction of the Association.

for Seeds, . 20 00
for Annual Report, &¢., 99 80—-1897 50

 

$540 12
HENRY M. LAING, Treasurer,

No. 30 N. Third Street, Philadelphia. —

JAcoB M. Ev

ANNIE CoorEr, 8, i Secretaries