From 1882 to 1887 Dr. Fish edited and published The Florida Baptist, the denominational State organ. The work was done chiefly by the students. Also in the Institute's printing office the work of printing the minutes of the State Convention and the various associations was conducted for several years. The Florida Institute Messenger is now published monthly by the school.
The library of the school contains about 1,000 volumes, many of which are of great value.
The annual enrolment averages about 125. Many of the students are from the best families, and represent every part of the State, and some from other States.
The courses of study embrace the Normal Preparatory, Academic, Theological, and Industrial.
About twenty acres of land near the school are rented at moderate cost, making in all about twenty-five acres cultivated by the students under the direction of a competent professor.
The religious character of the school is a marked feature.
PROF. H. B. LAWRENCE.
Prof. Lawrence, of Massachusetts, served as president during the school year 1890-1891. Rev. M. W. Gilbert was appointed to succeed him in 1891. His administration lasted one year. This year (1896), for the first time, the entire faculty is colored.
October 1, 1892, Rev. G. P. McKinney was appointed president, and now serves his fourth year.
The school is enshrined in the hearts of the colored Baptists of Florida. This is evidenced by the large and liberal contributions they make annually for its support.