An industrial department has been added for the boys. The colored people are making rapid progress in knowledge, and taking a more intelligent interest in business and politics. In consequence they are beginning to publish their own papers; and each year the papers published by them and in their interest will increase.
In addition to the schools just mentioned, the United Presbyterian Church has some smaller schools in other parts of the South, as follows:
At Blue Stone, Va., with an attendance of about 200 pupils. One at Athens, Tenn., with nearly 200 pupils, and at Miller's Ferry, N. C., of over 200 students. One at Prairie Bluff, Ala., of about 200, and at Camden, Ala., of 200. One at Canton Bend, Ala., of 50, and one at Summerfield, Ala., of nearly 200.
The data given regarding these schools will enable my readers to see that the United Presbyterian Church is doing its share in educating the colored people.
BOYDTON INSTITUTE.
The institute is located in a beautiful grove of oaks, a mile from Boydton, Mecklenburg County, Va. The Atlantic and Danville Railroad passes through the town of Boydton. President, Mrs. Lucretia A. Cullis, Boston, Mass.; Principal, Rev. D. F. Lamson; Associate Principal, Mrs. H. B. Sharpe; Treasurer, Miss Mary H. Ware.
In 1878, the "Randolph Macon" property, consisting of a four-story brick college building, steward's house, and about 425 acres of land, was purchased by Dr. Charles Cullis, of Boston, Mass., with funds donated for the purpose. It was regularly incorporated as a branch of the "Faith Work," and a school for colored people immediately opened. The college building has a chapel, school-rooms, and library, with sleeping-rooms for more than one hundred students. The dormitories have fire-places, which enable the students to be comfortable in the coldest weather.
This institute is intended for the education of colored young men and women, who wish to fit themselves for usefulness among their own people.
In addition to the common English branches, provision is made for classes in English Literature, Rhetoric, Civil Government, and the Theory and Practice of Teaching. The principal also gives instruction in Bible History and Interpretation, in Theology and in Evangelistic and Pastoral work. Special attention will be given to the needs of post-graduates and of ministers.
CHRISTIANSBURG INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE, CAMBRIA, VA.