The building on Esplanade street, built in 1870, was entirely destroyed by fire February 16th, 1877. Since that disastrous event, our sessions have been held in Central Church, which is also the property of the American Missionary Association. A new site, more convenient and attractive, was purchased in January last. It is located on Canal street, the most beautiful avenue in New Orleans. It comprises a half square of land, 150 feet front by 310 feet in depth. The new building, for whose design great credit is due to Prof. Thomas N. Chase, while not adhering strictly to any style of architecture, may be classed as Italian, as it approaches more nearly to that order. The dimensions of the building are 72 feet by 51½ feet. The five large recitation rooms are 30 feet by 50½ feet. The halls are 10 feet in width. The building is conveniently arranged, and all the requirements of the school, we think, have been anticipated in its design. The funds at the disposal of the Association did not admit of ornamentation; but the building, when completed, will be substantial, convenient, and comely. It will be ready for dedication and occupation at the opening of the fall term, October 1st. Grateful as we are for this new structure, we are not satisfied; neither should the friends of the freedmen in the North be satisfied. Straight University, in order to fill the measure of its usefulness, and cultivate the territory open to its occupation, must furnish accommodations for students from abroad—from towns outside of New Orleans, and from adjoining States. It must have dormitories. Two buildings, one on either side of the main building, are urgently needed, and at the earliest possible day. Then, when our group of buildings are completed, we can invite and welcome the best talent of the race, at whatever distance from New Orleans it may be found. Then our beloved University will become, among the educational institutions of the South-west—and especially of the Gulf States—the magnet, attracting to itself the best in intellect, in heart, and in promise of future good.
VIRGINIA.
Additions to the Church—An Indian’s Creed—A Good Beginning.
REV. RICHARD TOLMAN, HAMPTON.
Four students united with the church by profession the first Sabbath in May. It is several years since any Communion season has passed without some additions to the church.
The fifteen Indians who have lately joined the school have taken hold of study and of manual labor with commendable zeal, and give promise of becoming good teachers and guides of their race. One of them now shows evidence of Christian character. Their promptness and decision, as to the duties required of them, were put to the test in reference to the use of tobacco, to which they were so strongly attached that, as one of them said:—“There are three things I love: I love God; I love Jesus; I love smoke.” When asked if they would comply with the rules of the school, prohibiting the use of tobacco, after considering the matter awhile in silence, one of them gave an expressive sign that he would cut loose from tobacco; and then all the others gave the same significant pledge—a pledge which, their teacher assures us, they will never break.