The rebuilding of the holy and beautiful house which was burned up with fire, and its dedication, as now recalled by the current Sunday-school lessons, have found a counterpart in the replacing and reconsecrating of this temple of learning by the American Missionary Association for the ex-captives of this city. In February last, under unexplained circumstances, it was burned. Rev. R. F. Markham, the pastor, instead of going North for his needed recuperation, remained through the heat of summer to play the part of Ezra in rebuilding. This was accomplished so that the Institute was opened on time, October 1st. It is a comely structure, 60 x 80, two stories high, adjoining the "Home" that was saved.
Prof. B. F. Koons, at the public service, reported that he had now four accomplished lady assistants, Misses Twitchell, Daly, Markham and Ferris, and 290 pupils, including those of the night school. He also stated that the object of the teachers was to afford the advantages of higher education to those who desire to go beyond the public school course; that it was their purpose not to influence the pupils as to any change in their denominational relations; and that they were not to seek any diversion in political matters. He would also say to their white brethren that their sympathy and co-operation were earnestly invited in this work, as it is purely a Christian and missionary enterprise. Mr. Markham offered the prayer of dedication. Several colored ministers were present and participated. The Field Superintendent made an address upon "The Bible religion a teaching religion in the family, the church and the school."
The singing was accompanied by a new nine-stop "American Organ," presented by Mr. S. D. Smith, president of that manufacturing company in Boston. I find in the South many of these souvenirs of his practical interest in this work. He must be a happy man if he knows anything of the amount of joy which his benevolence brings to these lowly ones, who are yet so fond of music, and so gifted in it, too.
In the evening, after a sermon, the Lord's Supper was administered at the Congregational Church. To-night there is to be the regular monthly meeting of the colored Sunday-school workers of all denominations in the city. This is a very useful and enthusiastic affair. To-morrow night we are to have a lecture upon the growth of our country, to be illustrated by the big map of the same. While I write, the colored militia, to the number of ten companies, in gay uniform, with glorious music, are having their annual parade at the Park, their own Georgia artillery firing the salute of thirty-eight guns. This afternoon, at three o'clock, we are to join with the Executive Committee at New York, and all the A. M. A. workers in the annual concert of prayer for the blessing of God upon this scheme of evangelism. The week of prayer is to be observed in the white churches by a union service, held at night by rotation, in their several places of worship.
ITEMS FROM THE FIELD.
Charleston, S. C.—The first convention of the Charleston Teachers' Union met at Avery Institute January 2d, 3d and 4th. Essays were read on the Art of Teaching; the Culture of the Intellect; How to Teach; Incentives to Study; Our Duty as Teachers; Our Common Schools; the Mind its own Educator; the Best Methods of Discipline; Classification; Vacations; Mind and Matter; and the Drama as a Means of Education. Many of these varied themes were treated by graduates of Avery Institute. General discussions were also participated in on Prizes, Moral Instruction in Schools, and "What's the use of Schools?" It must have been a busy and stimulating three days' meeting.
Midway, Ga.—Arrangement has been made whereby Rev. Floyd Snelson has resumed the pastoral charge of his old church at Midway. Rev. Joseph E. Smith, who had served as pastor during the absence of Mr. Snelson in Africa, and who by his cultured ministry had won the people greatly, has gracefully retired from the pulpit, and will receive immediate appointment to another field.
Savannah, Ga.—Mr. Markham wrote some time ago: "There is progress here, and I can see the result of our work in Savannah just as easily as you can see the change made by a carpenter in planing a board. Though we have had hard work, rough times, and many head winds, still there is progress. More than five hundred children are gathered into the Sabbath Schools of our churches in and around Savannah."
Childersburg, Ala.—The church had a Christmas supper to help procure a bell for the church. The pastor wants us to ask our friends to aid in the endeavor.