MISSISSIPPI.
Grenada.
[Extracts from, the Grenada Sentinel of June 29th.]
A representative of the Sentinel witnessed the closing exercises on Friday night, the 21st inst., of one of our colored schools, under the management of Miss Anna Harwood and Miss Carrie Segur, which was an exhibition most creditable to both teachers and pupils, receiving praises from all who attended. The audience was very large, among whom we noticed quite a number of prominent white citizens, both ladies and gentlemen. The call for order, accompanied with the request for good behavior, and that there should be no talking or stamping of feet, was, considering the immense throng which filled the church, well observed, and we doubt not that all went away pleased and highly gratified with the exhibition. The exercises were commenced with an opening chorus, entitled, “Hold the Fort,” which was followed with prayer, by Elder J. D. Williams. The declamations, dialogues, songs, etc., were all very fairly rendered, and, in several instances, worthy of special mention.
That the teachers deserve not only the congratulations of the patrons of the school, but the encouragement and kindest regards of every lover and promoter of education in our community, we think all who were present, at least, will agree. That the colored people are progressing, and that rapidly, too, in an educational point of view, is a fact beyond any doubt, we will venture to say, in the minds of those who have given the subject even a casual investigation. We are impressed with the idea that our people in general have not yet given to this system of free education that reflection to which it is so richly entitled. But we are also impressed with its growing favor, and the importance that will be attached to the institution at no distant day. It is not only our duty, but we should endeavor to make it our pleasure to encourage, improve and build up our free schools.