1861, First Annual Meeting of the Colored Teachers' Association, Held At Springfield, Ohio, Dec. 25, 26 & 27, '61.

1861, First Annual Meeting of the Colored Teachers' Association, Held At Springfield, Ohio, Dec. 25, 26 & 27, '61.

colored teachers, colored education, Ohio

Transactions of the First Annual Meeting of the Colored Teachers' Association, Held At Springfield, Ohio, Dec. 25, 26 & 27, '61.

1861

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TRANSACTIONS [centered] OF THE [centered FIRST ANNUAL MEETING [centered OF THE [centered Colored Teachers Association [centered HELD AT [centered SPRINGFIELD, OHIO, DEC. 25, 26 & 27, '51. [centered

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TRANSACTIONS OF THE FIRST ANNUAL MEETING OF THE COLORED TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION, HELD AT SPRINGFIELD, OHIO, DEC. 25 & 26, 1861. MINUTES.-- The members of the Association met in the Church at 2 o'clock, P.M. The President, Jas. S. Waring, called the house to order. Prayer was offered by Mr. Lewis Adams. On motion, G.W. W. Guy was chosen Secretary pro. tem. The Constitution was read, and the names of the following persons were enrolled: J. D. Betts, Mrs, F. M. Mitchell, Miss L. Satchell. On the motion, the Association adjourned, to meet at 7 o'clock, P.M. M. EVENING SESSION. The Association having convened, the deliberations were opened with singing, after which B. K. Sampson delivered the annual address, which was most effective, and worthy the occasion of our coming together. A very excellent essay, written by Mr. H. Bushnell, was then read by the Secretary. Mr. T. J. Ferguson, of the Lebanon, next addressed the Association on the subject of Domestic Culture. On the motion, the names of the following persons were received and enrolled: Miss Susan Adams, Solomon Day, S. Peterson. A collection for defraying expenses was taken up, and the house adjourned to meet at 9 o'clock on Thursday morning.

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[deletion][/deletion] OF THE THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26. The Association met at 9 o'clock, A. A.M., and was organized by Prayer by Mr. J. G. Mitchell. Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The Treasurer, C. B. Jones, submitted his report, which was accepted. On motion of T. J. Ferguson, the programme for the morning was postponed till afternoon. On motion of Mr. Mitchell, the subject of School Government was taken up, and very ably discussed by Messrs. J. G. Mitchell, B.K. K. Sampson, G. W. Guy, and O. M. Waring. The Association then adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Pursuant to adjournment, the house was called to order. Minutes of last meeting read and approved. The name of Mr. J. R. Blackburn was offered and received, The Association immediately proceeded to discuss the several topics under consideration, to to-wit: Orthography, by Mr. O. M. Waring; Reading, by B. K. Sampson; Penmanship, by Mr. C. B. Jones; Written Arithmetic, by Mr. Guy. The Association adjourned. EVENING SESSION, 7 O'CLOCK, P. M. The Association met as usual, President in the chair. - Exercises commenced with singing. Minutes of the last meeting were read and received. Miss S. J. Woodson, Vice-President, was called to the chair, and the Association was eloquently addressed by Mr. J. S. Waring; subject, Progress and Development. An essay was read by Miss L. Satchell, on School Government. Mrs. Hunster read an essay on Mind and Reward. The Association was then most delightfully entertained with a song by the pupils of Mr. J.S. S. Waring's school; after which T. J. Ferguson addressed the audience on the subject of Civil and Political Excellence. A collection was then taken up, and Mr. J. S. Waring favored the audience with an original comic song. The Association then adjourned. FRIDAY, DEC. 27, 9 A. M. President in the chair. Exercises commenced with prayer. Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. On motion, the house proceeded to the election of officers for the ensuing year, which resulted as follows: President, John G. Mitchell; Vice-Presidents, E.D. D.

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OHIO COLORED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION 3 Davis, Solomon Day, Mrs. S.J. J. Hunster, Miss L. Satchell, and Mr. J. R. Blackburn. Recording Secretary, T. J. Ferguson; Corresponding Secretary, B. K. Sampson. Treasurer, A. W. Henson. The Association then listened to the reports of Teachers. Mr. S. Day, of Bellefontaine, reported the number of scholars enrolled 43. Average daily number, 17. – Common branches taught. Schoolhouse in rather a dilapidated condition. Mr. J. S. Waring, of Springfield, reported number enrolled for last term 75. Average daily attendance 52. In addition to the common branches, Physiology, Algebra, Natural Philosophy, Vocal Music were taught. The building is a a fine frame. Salary, $ 340. School continues nine months through the year. G. W. Guy, of the Urbana Township School, has enrolled 45 pupils; average daily attendance, 26. Common branches taught. The school is kept in the Baptist church. Salary $ 300. Mr. John [deletion]W.[/deletion] Mitchell reported that the common schools of Cincinnati, during the year [deletion]ending[/deletion], to have been conducted with much success. The number enrolled is 695. Average daily daily attendance, 371. [deletion]187 have been studying the common branches.[/deletion] In addition to the common branches, were taught History, Algebra, Philosophy, Physiology, and Book-Keeping. Eight teachers are employed. Salaries vary from $ 18 to $ 50 per month. The schools continue ten months through the year. Mrs. Fannie Mitchell reported the school of Walnut Hill, of which she is the teacher, to be in fine progress. – The number of scholars enrolled, 57; average daily attendance, 32. The common branches only are taught. The school is conducted in the Baptist Church. It continues from four to six months in the year. The Superintendent takes much interest in the school. Salary, $ 20 per month. Mr. E. D. Davis gave a report of the Union Seminary School. Number enrolled, 15; daily average attendance, 12. This school is under the supervision of the Ohio Conference. Salary $ 200. Mr. O. M. Waring, of Mason, has enrolled 34 pupils; ;

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4 PROCEEDINGS OF THE [header] average attendance, 26. Parents are exceedingly interested. . B. K. Sampson, , of Harveysburg, reported the number enrolled 47; ; average daily attendance, 28. In addition to the common branches, were taught Algebra, Natural Philosophy and Book-Keeping. Mr. J. D. Betts reported to be enrolled, 40 pupils; average, erage, 24. Common branches taught. Building in a poor condition. School continues 5 months. Salary, $ 133 per year. Vanburen, Shelby county. Mr. A. W. Henson, of Dayton, reported 60 pupils en- enrolled; average monthly attendance, 40. Common branches were taught. Salary $ 380. Mr. S. Peterson, of Jasper Township, Fayette county, Number enrolled, 39; average attendance, ace 22. Common branches taught. The Association adjourned, to meet at 2 at o'clock P. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. [centered]. The Association met, pursuant to adjournment. President dent in the chair. House was called to order. Minutes read and approved. . B. K. Sampson and J. S. Waring were appointed committee on printing. After a spirited discussion upon different questions, the house adjourned. EVENING SESSION, DEC. 27. [unclear][/unclear] Pursuant to adjournment, the house was called to or- order. Exercises commenced with singing; after which the teachers addressed the audience on the importance of an efficient education. On motion, it was Resolved, [italics], That the thanks of the Association are hereby by tendered to the citizens of Springfield for their kind hospitality. On motion, the Association adjourned, to meet at the time and place that should be agreed upon by the Board of Directors. [Begin italics] The next annual meeting will be held at Cincinnati, Ohio, commencing on the 25th of December 1862; and it will con- continue in session three days. [end italics] The annual address will be delivered by Thomas J. Ferguson. An address to Parents will be delivered by E. D. Davis. Miss S. J. Woodson [woman's name!!] will deliver an address to the Youth. DAILY TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION. - 1st. The best method

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[Ohio Colored Teachers' Association] 5 COLORED TEACHER'S ASSOCIATION.) ... of teaching the art of Spelling, by J.S. S. Waring. [deletion][/deletion] 2 Reading, by O.M. M. Waring. - 31. Writing, by B.K. K. Sampson. 4. Grammar, by A.W. W. Henson. 5. Mental Arithmetic, by Mrs. F.J. J. Mitchell. 6. Written Arithmetic, by J.R. R. Blackburn. On motion, a committee of three was appointed to [unclear][/unclear] prepare an address to be published with the [unclear][/unclear] proceeding consisting of John C. Mitchell, Thomas J. Ferguson, and Benj. K. Sampson.

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CONSTITUTION &C. ---***--- ARTICLE I. This Association shall be styled "The Ohio Colored Teachers' Association." ART. II. The Officers of this Association shall be, a President, five Vice Presidents, Recording Secretary, Corresponding Secretary, and Treasurer; all of whom shall constitute the Board of Directors. ART. III. It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all meetings of the Association. In the absence of the President, it shall be the duty of the Vice Presidents to fill the President's office. ART IV. It shall be the duty of the Recording Secretary to keep a correct record of all the proceedings of the Association. ART. V. It shall be the duty of the Corresponding Secretary to communicate, under the direction of the Board of Directors, with similar Associations, should there be any, with the teachers of the state, and with such other persons as may be necessary, He shall keep a full record of all communications, and report, when called upon at any regular meeting of the Association. ART. V. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to re-ceive and keep all the moneys of the Association - pay out the same only on orders from the Board of Directors; and report the condition of the finances, when called upon at any regular meeting of the Association. ART. VII. It shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to have in charge the general interests of the Association, to make arrangements for its meetings, and to do all in their power to make it a useful and permanent institution. ART. VIII. Any person who is engaged in teaching private or public schools, giving lessons in elementary branches, or engaged in conducting high schools, is eligible to membership. ART. IX. All persons wishing to become members of said Association, shall apply to the Board of Directors, and, being recommended by either of them, shall be re-

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7 CONSTUTION, ETC. ceived full members by a vote of two thirds of the members present, on paying fifty cents for males, and twenty-five cents for females. ART. X. The Officers of this Association shall be chosen by ballot, or as the Association may direct, and shall hold their offices for one year, or until their successors are elected. ART. XI: The meetings of the Association shall be held annually. The place and time of the meeting shall be designated by the Board of Directors, unless by the Association. ART. XII: This Constitution may be altered or amended at any regular meeting, by a vote of two thirds of the members present. NAMES OF THE MEMBERS. [first column] JOHN G. Mitchell, Chas. B. Jones, Thos. JONES, J. Ferguson, G. W. Guy, B. K. Sampson, O. M. Waring, A. W. Henson, Solomon Day, Jas. S. Waring, J. R. Blackburn, Miss S. J. Woodson, [second column) S. Peterson, J. D. Betts, Mrs. F. M. Mitchell, Miss. E. Satchell, " Susan WARING, " M. F. Williams, A. W. HENSON, " A. M. SMITH, SOLOMON DAY, " J. F. Jenefier, JAS. S. WARING, " M. M. M. Napper, R. BLACKBURN, " F. A. Trotter, MISS S. J. WOODSON, " M. E. Anderson, [centered at bottom of both columns} Mrs. S. J. HUNSTER.

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3 PROCEEDINGS OF THE ADDRESS to the Patrons and Friends of Colored Schools. FRIENDS AND PATRONS OF OUR SCHOOLS: -- In the language of necessity we address you. Through a generous provision of our state government, , schools are being established throughout the state; and the colored schools are not behind in the process of multiplication. Though they are not as prolific of good as the white schools, this, nevertheless, is attributable in part to matters beyond our control; but the cause which mostly obstructs the progress and efficiency of our schools is in our own hands. The day has passed for man to be used as a mere machine. He must reflect the light of his own moral and intellectual development - must either shine in the effulgence of his own wisdom, or sink to poverty and wretchedness by his own ignorance. For the last ten years, colored teachers have been actively engaged in preparing themselves for the responsible duties of the schoolroom. Many have entered our colleges, and other institutions of learning, and have devoted their time and money for qualifying themselves to become the instructors of your sons and daughters. In many instances they are teaching for less wages than laborers are employed for, who never spent a dime in fitting themselves for the places they fill. But it is not this to which we wish to call to your attention. We are willing to live upon the fare of the humblest, if by doing so doing we can accomplish the object of our desire, namely, the education and elevation of our race. In many instances you do not visit the schools, nor take any interest in them. Your children are allowed to spend too much of their time in idleness and vice. Too often is it the case that reports from various school districts are ladened with accounts of very poor attendance on the part of the pupils. Now why is this, unless it is that parents are too little concerned in regard to the mental improvement of their children? This lamentable and growing evil can only be remedied by the colored people themselves. And it is to them that we now appeal, in behalf of the sleeping faculties of our race. We call on them to

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OHIO COLORED TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION. 9 arouse from the long night of inactivity, and assume the character of active, living men and women. Every lesson is a key to the one which succeeds it. It leads to the avenues of wealth and power and greatness. Then let us not be indifferent to our dearest and best interests, but let us rather profit by the lessons we have learned. Unless we subdue our prejudices, our very efforts for intellectual attainments will be without a marked distinction. Every denominational prejudice helps to retard the progress and destroy the efficiency of schools. Many persons, too, ignorant of the offices of a Holy Religion, have turned them into political contests. Ay, teachers have gone into the schoolroom with all their denominational dogmas, teaching not so much those principles which would tend to the full development of man's intellectual and moral faculties, but rather propagating certain doctrines which can be regarded nothing more than the fixed notions of their own prejudices. This is a fact which we very much regret; and these are obstacles with which we have to contend. We ask your cooperation to the extent of your ability, in the field of labor. Recent accounts show that there are in this state nearly 14,000 colored youth, between 5 and 21 years of age. Of this number, about 7000 have been enrolled in the schools during the year. The daily average attendance is not more than 3,500. The number of colored schools is known to be 160. The number of colored teachers is about 150. In the light of these considerations, the condition of our people calls on you to educate them. The voice of unborn generations calls out to you from the bosom of the future; and the duty which you owe to your children enjoins it upon you. It is a question with many to understand why we should spend so much time and money in educating our children, when it is known they are not allowed to fill the places of lawyers, senators, judges or presidents. We verily admit all this; but does this truth afford the slightest reason that we we should refuse to cultivate our faculties, refuse to assimilate ourselves to the Divine Archetype, and become the representatives of His infinite and perfect wisdom? ? - It is not, rather, necessary that the laboring man, the farmer, the mechanic, hostler, kitchen-girl, should all have a good education? The practical utility of a scientific knowledge is realized in every industrial branch of life. – There is not an individual, however obscure, or whatever

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10 PROCEEDINGS OF THE his occupation may be, who may not derive some practical benefit from an acquaintance with the sciences. Labor, combined with intelligence, is tenfold more productive than labor expended without forethought. Never can we become an influential or enlightened people in these United States, Canada, Liberia, Hayti, or any other country, unless we educate ourselves. Parents, teach your children that it is not disgraceful to labor. Give them a good education, and they will exert an influence which will be felt in the world. Every age and generation have their peculiar wants. Every year brings us nearer the golden era, when we shall exult in the glory of our mental acquisitions, or discover to ourselves the painful truth of being insufficient for the work before us. The truth of being insufficient for the work before us. The truth of this will become more mortifying to us when we reflect that everything is receiving the impress of improvement. No matter how circumscribed by adverse circumstances, no matter how oppressed by inexorable law; if an opportunity is afforded, we must educate. In surveying the social condition of man, we will find that nothing causes him to feel more self-abased than when he contemplates the dread reality of his own mental imbecility. But ah! ! what joy must animate the breasts of those parents who know that the pledges of their affection have been trained in the school of learning! The best legacy which a parent can leave to a child is a liberal education: without it, youth and manhood float on a sea filled with rocks, and no beacon-light of light to direct them. It is the guiding star which shines in the sky of man's life, which glitters on the brow of night, and points him to the heaven of safety. It is the stepping-stone to wealth and power. It guards against all indisposition, and teaches the method of preserving health. We are fast advancing to a new period in the world's drama. If we fail to meet the wants of the great hereafter, the trials of coming life will be tenfold greater than they are at the present time. And if, in the midst of our multiplied opportunities, the moments are left unimproved, then greater will be our condemnation. Even without an education, you can not reasonably expect your children to succeed as well as you yourselves have done in the daily avocations of life. It is as impossible with them as it wo'd be to stay the flight

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OHIO COLORED TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION 11 of time. You may grow languid over the sad condition of Society; you may even wish to exempt yourselves from the important claims which it has upon you; but so long as society remains in its present state, so long as we linger in comparative darkness, so long will this claim remain the inevitable sequence of our ignorance. Let us, then, acknowledge the claim, and mutually strive to meet it. Let the work of human education be made more efficient, until society shall brighten by our acquisitions, and a light of intellectual glory pervade the earth. J on Address: John G. Mitchell, Tho's J. Ferguson, Benj. K. Sampson, Committee on Address.

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Peter H. Clark US PROCEEDINGS Proceedings of the Second Annual Meeting of the Ohio Colored Teacher's Association held in CINCINNATI, O., DEC. 25, 26, & 27, 1862. Cincinnati: Published for the THE ASSOCIATION 1863.

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PROCEEDINGS OF THE SECOND ANNUAL MEETING OF THE OHIO COLORED TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION. HELD IN CINCINNATI, O., DEC. 25, 26 AND 27, 1862 Pursuant to adjournment, the members of the Association met in the hall of the school house in the Eastern District, at 2 o'clock, P.M. M. The President, Mr. J. S. Waring, called the house to order, made a few appropriate remarks, and invited the officers elect to take their places. Mr. J. G. Mitchell then took the chair. T. J. Ferguson, Recording Secretary, read the Constitution. S. D. Fox, J. M. Meek, A. N. Freeman and Miss B. V. Harris, being recommended, were received full members of the Association. The following Teachers then reported verbally concerning the condition of their schools: G. W. Guy, T. J. Ferguson, J. S. Waring, J. R. Blackburn, Miss S. J. Woodson, F. A. Trotter, B. V. Harris, Mr. J. M. Meek, S. D. Fox, A. N. Freeman and J. G. Mitchell. On motion, it was resolved that the evening meetings commence at half past 7 o'clock. Mr. T. J. Furguson moved that the day sessions commence at 9 o'clock, A. M., and 2 o'clock, P. M., and that each session continue three hours. Carried. G. W. Guy was appointed Treasurer pro tem. The Association adjourned, to meet at half past 7 o'clock, in Baker street Church.

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[2] PROCEEDINGS OF THE EVENING SESSION. President in the chair. Singing by the choir. Prayer by Rev. H. H. White. T. J. Ferguson, a man of talent, firmness and perseverance, delivered the annual address, which was practical, rich in thought and characteristic of the speaker. G. W. Guy, of Urbana, read a very interesting essay. Subject, Rewards of Teaching. Music by the choir. A collection was then taken up to defray the expenses of the Association. Mr. J. S. Waring next addressed the audience. The theme of his discourse was Organizations and failures. Having very forcibly and graphically pointed out the reason of failures, he called out the reason of failures, he called upon the members of the Association, and all interested in the great work of human progress and improvement, to make a renewed and united effort for the advancement of so noble a work. After singing, the Association adjourned. FRIDAY MORNING, DEC. 26. The Association met pursuant to adjournment. The President in the chair. Prayer by Rev. S. D. Fox. Minutes read and approved. Miss Clara Duncan, being recommended by Mr. Day, was, on motion, received into membership. The topics for daily discussions being next in order, J. S. Waring proceeded with spelling. He treated the subject in a masterly and systematic manner. His analysis and synthesis were clear. Suggestive and practical remarks on the same subject by several of the members. Mr. O. M. Waring was called upon to address the Association on the subject of reading. Not being prepared, he declined speaking. Mr. T. J. Ferguson moved to waive the subject and pass to the next topic. Motion lost. The subject was then discussed by Messrs. G. W. Guy, S. D. Fox and J. M. Meek. On motion the Association adjourned to meet at two o'clock, P. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. The Association met according to adjournment. Minutes read and approved. A committee of three, consisting of B. K. Sampson, J. M. Meek and Miss M. E. An-

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OHIO COLORED TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION. 3 derson, was appointed to nominate officers for the ensuing year. On motion, it was resolved, that the question, How can the Colored man become a MAN, be made the subject for a general discussion on Saturday evening. Mr. T. J. Ferguson moved that the time of holding the Annual Meeting to be changed from Christmas to the first Tuesday in August. The subject was laid on the table. The topic of writing was taken up and very ably discussed by B. K. Sampson. Remarks on the same subject by several members. The best method of teaching grammar, being the next topic in order, was taken up. After quite an interesting discussion, in which several engaged, the subject was laid over till the morning session. A financial committee of two, J. G. Mitchell and Miss S. J. Woodson, was appointed. The Association then adjourned, to meet at half past 7 o'clock. EVENING SESSION. The Association convened at half past 7 o'clock. Singing by the choir. After which, prayer by the Rev. S. D. Fox. Miss S. J. Woodson, a graduate of Oberlin College, delivered an address to the youth. Miss Woodson is a fine speaker and a young lady of rare talents. Her address was replete with arguments ingenious and subtle, thoughts noble and aspiring. Music by the choir. Mrs. S. J. Hunster, of Xenia, read an essay. Subject, Harmony; Religious or Practical. An excellent essay was read by S. J. Meek. Subject, Sin of Insubordination. Music. An essay by Miss F. A. Trotter. Subject, A Solid or Genuine Education. It was clearly set forth in this essay that such an education does not make a man an egotist, a fop or a braggadocio, but enables him to move among his fellow men with meekness, honor and dignity. Mr. B. K. Sampson next addressed the audience. The theme of his discourse was Education the Price of Liberty. Mr. Sampson is a very eloquent speaker. In argument, he is ingenious; in delivery, earnest and bold; in persuasion, mild and winning. Music by the choir. The Association then adjourned.

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PROCEEDINGS OF THE SATURDAY MORNING, DEC. 27. The Association met at 9 o'clock. Prayer by the Rev. J.M. M. Meek. Minutes read and approved. On motion, Miss Amelia Williams and Mr. Armstead Early, were received into membership. After an able and interesting discussion on grammar, J.R. R. Blackburn, a mathematician and scholar, addressed the Association on the subject of arithmetic. His explanations and demonstrations of principles and propositions were clear, instructive, and in the highest degree satisfactory. The committee on nominations reported. The report was received and the committee discharged. On motion, P. Flemming and R. James became members. The Association next proceeded to the election of the officers. After several ballotings, the following persons were elected. President, B.K. K. Sampson; Vice-Presidents, Miss A. Williams, F.A. A. Trotter, Mr. G.W. W. Guy, S. Peterson and S.D. D. Fox; Recording Secretary, A.N. N. Freeman; Corresponding Secretary, J.S. S. Waring; Treasurer, J.R. R. Blackburn. The Association adjourned to meet at 2 o'clock, P.M. AFTERNOON SESSION. President in the chair. Minutes read and approved. On motion, the resolution changing the time for the Annual Meeting, was taken up. After a long and animated discussion, it was resolved that the next Annual Meeting be held at Columbus, on the 29th of December, , and continue in session three days. A committee of three on printing, J.G. G. Mitchell, Miss A. Williams and M.E. E. Anderson, was appointed. Four hundred copies of the Minutes were ordered to be published. A tax of fifty cents was levied on each member for the publication of the Minutes. The Association then adjourned to meet at half past 7 o'clock. EVENING SESSION. President in the chair. Singing. Prayer by Rev. J.M. M. Meek. Miss M.E. E. Anderson, of Cincinnati, read a very excellent essay on School Politeness. A general dis,

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OHIO COLORED TEACHERS' Association. 5 eussion being the order of the evening, the subject, How can the Colored man become a Man, was taken up. Messrs. B. K. Sampson, T. J. Ferguson, S. D. Fox, J. S. Waring, P. H. Clark, S. Day, R. James and others participated in the discussion. It was argued by some that the colored man has proved himself to be a man on nearly every battle-field of the American Revolution, and that in other places of daring, honor and trust, he has set forth the nobleness of his manhood; ; by some again that the colored man was a man, and that the discussion of such a subject exhibited weakness or ignorance on the part of the disputants. It was argued by others that the colored man could become a man by cultivating and fully developing the powers and susceptibilities of the mind, by cultivating a great, good and benevolent heart, by accumulating wealth. That the colored man must act now, and continue to act; that what he has done in the forgetful past will have but little weight in comparison with what he is now doing. In reply to the objection urged against the topic, it was remarked that the word man, in the topic under discussion, was used in contradistinction to the word man, in its generic sense, that it was used to include whatever was great, and good and noble, and also had reference to our social and political equality. On motion, the following resolutions were adopted: : WHEREAS, The good people of the Cincinnati have shown their interest in the cause of education by sharing with us their homes and their comforts during our stay among them; therefore, be it Resolved, That our heartfelt thanks are due to them for their kind hospitality. Resolved, That our thanks are hereby tendered to the Trustees of the Colored Common Schools, and to the Trustees of Baker street Church, for the use of their buildings. Resolved, That our thanks are equally due the Choir, for cheering our hearts with sweet music while engaged in the arduous duties of the Association. On motion, the Association adjourned, to meet in Columbus, on the 29th of December, 1863. The first session will commence at 9 o'clock, A.M. M. It is hoped, and earnestly requested, that the members be

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6 PROCEEDINGS OF THE present at the time and well prepared to perform the duties of the Association. Order of exercises. Addresses: Practical Education, J. M. Meek; Domestic Education, S. D. Fox; Causes of the Idle Habits of Pupils in the School Room and a Remedy for the Same, S. Day. Annual Address, J.G. G. Mitchell. Topics for daily discussion. The Best Method of Teaching Composition, T. J. Ferguson; Reading, Miss F. A. Trotter; Arithmetic, S. Peterson; Grammar, Miss S.J. J. Woodson; Geography, Miss B.V. V. Harris; History, Miss M. E. Anderson. That all the school districts may be supplied with teachers, members and others are requested to inform the Corresponding Secretary of any district needing a teacher. Teachers wanting schools can inquire of the Corresponding Secretary, James S. Waring, of Springfield, Ohio. The correspondence should be carried on without any expense to the Secretary. It has been suggested that the teachers bring up to the next meeting specimens of writing and essays from their pupils. Will not this have a tendency to awaken an interest in that direction in our schools? How many are willing to make the experiment?

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REPORTS OF THE SCHOOLS. Reports of the Schools. J.S. Waring, of Springfield, reported; number enrolled, 66 -- males, 41; females, 25; average daily attendance, 48. Master Edward Lyle lost one day in fourteen weeks, had perfect lessons in history for eleven consecutive weeks. The common branches are taught; also, history, philosophy, physiology, algebra and higher arithmetic. During the greater part of the term the school was quiet, studious and more flourishing than it had ever been before. Parents promptly furnished their children with books, which shows that they are interested in their intellectual and moral culture. J. M. Meek, of Zanesville. Number enrolled, 75; average attendance, 55. Common branches taught. School building, a large frame, not very suitable. The school is well furnished with Cornell's Outline Maps. Reports are made to parents every half term, to the Superintendent every week. Attend teachers' meetings every two weeks. Salary, $ 275. Parents might be much more interested. T. J. Ferguson, Albany. School continues from five to six months. Wages, $ 30 per month. Number enrolled 70; average daily attendance, five-sevenths of the enrollment. Common branches taught. School house good, but too small. Progress good. Colored people much interested in education. They are making an effort to build an academy. The officers of the academy are T. J. Ferguson, President and General Agent; J. E. Cassels, Treasurer; and a board of seven Trustees. A. N. Freeman, Ripley and Red Oak. Number enrolled at Ripley, 64; average attendance, 32. School is in good condition. School house dilapidated. Parents, with few

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8 [PROCEEDINGS OF THE exceptions, but little interested. School continues four months during the year. Salary, $ 100. The enrollment at Red Oak is 45; average daily attendance, 27. School in a flourishing condition. School house good. Parents not much interested. School continues six months in the year. Salary, $ 160. Miss J. F. Jenefier, Xenia, eastern district. Number enrolled, 49; average attendance, 38. School house large and comfortable. School continues nine months and three weeks. Salary, $ 20 per month. Miss C. Duncan, Greenfield. School taught in the Methodist Church, which is tolerably comfortable. Number enrolled, 42; average daily attendance, 22. Not much interest manifested by parents. Scholars much interested. The school continues from four to six months during the year. Common branches taught. Miss S. J. Woodson, Berlin. Number enrolled, 52; average daily attendance, 50. In addition to the common branches, physiology, physical geography, map drawing and higher arithmetic, are taught. School continues nine months in the year. School house comfortable. Miss B. V. Harris, Columbus. Number of scholars enrolled in my department, 141; average daily attendance, 88. Common branches taught. The school house in good condition. School continues forty weeks. G. W. Guy, Urbana township. Number enrolled, 42; average attendance 30. Common branches taught, also physiology. Grammar class had perfect lessons, except one, for twelve weeks in succession. One-fifth of the scholars tardy in coming to school. One-fifth of the parents tardy or negligent about buying books. J. R. Blackburn, Xenia. Report for the last year: : Total enrollment, 192; average daily attendance, 123. Three teachers were employed. Mrs. Lizzie S. Morris, Miss Griffin and myself. The buildings are rented. Considerable interest manifested by the parents. Common school branches taught. Salary, for three teachers, $ 75 per month. O. M. Waring, Columbus. The colored schools have no separate School Board, but are part and the parcel of the white school system of the city. School rooms comfortable. School room furniture good. The Board of Edu-

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OHIO COLORED TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION. 9 cation manifests great interest in the success of our schools. Two teachers employed. Number of scholars enrolled, 221; average daily attendance, 133. School year, forty weeks, divided into three terms. S. Day, Martinsville. Number enrolled, 48; average attendance, 27; number of scholars in the district between the ages of five and twenty-one, 53. School house, a miserable log cabin. More interest manifested by the parents than might be expected, considering the fact that nearly all were slaves until a few years ago. J. G. Mitchell, Cincinnati. The public schools are in a healthy condition. They are under the control of a board of colored Trustees. Eight teachers. Two large, comfortable buildings. Teachers' meetings monthly. Salaries vary from $ 22 to $ 55 per month. Total enrollment, 695; average belonging, 374; average daily attendance, 348. In addition to the common branches, algebra, philosophy, physiology, universal history and book-keeping, keeping, are taught. Number studying the higher branches, 24. The schools continue about ten months during the year.

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Constitution. Preamble. - To diffuse a knowledge of the art of teaching, and to promote and advance the cause of popular education, we, whose names are subjoined, do adopt the following Constitution: : Article I. This Association shall be styled " "The Ohio Colored Teachers' Association." Art. II. The officers of the Association shall be, a President, five Vice-Presidents, Recording Secretary, Corresponding Secretary and Treasurer; ; all of whom shall constitute the Board of Directors. Art. III. . It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all meetings of the Association. In the absence of the President, it shall be the duty of one of the Vice-Presidents to fill the President's office. Art. IV. It shall be the duty of the Recording Secretary to keep a correct record of all the proceedings of the Association. Art. V. It shall be the duty of the Corresponding Secretary to communicate, under the direction of the Board of Directors, with similar Associations, should there be any, with similar Associations, should there be any, with the teachers of the State, and with such other persons as may be necessary. He shall keep a full record of all communications, and report, when called upon at any regular meeting of the Association. Art. VI. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive and keep all the moneys of the Association; ; pay out the same only on orders from the Board of Directors, and report the condition of the finances, when called upon at any regular meeting of the Association. Art. VII. It shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to have in charge the general interests of the Association, to make arrangements for its meetings, and to do all in their power to make it a useful and permanent institution.

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12 CONSTITUTION ART. VIII. Any person who is engaged in teaching private or public schools, giving lessons in elementary branches, , or engaged in conducting high schools, is eligible to membership. ART. IX. All persons wishing to become members of said Association, shall apply to the Board of Directors, and, being recommended by either of them, shall be received full members by a vote of two-thirds of the members present, on paying fifty cents for males, and twenty-five five cents for females. ART. X. The officers of the Association shall be chosen by ballot, or as the Association may direct, and shall hold their offices for one year, or until their successors are elected. Art. XI. The meetings of the Association shall be held annually. The place and time of the meeting shall be designated by the Board of Directors, unless by the Association. ART. XII. The Constitution may be altered or amended at any regular meeting, by a vote of two-thirds of the members present. NAMES OF THE MEMBERS. Mr. T. J. Ferguson, Mr. A. Early, Mr. C.B. B. Jones, Mr. P. Flemming, Mr. J.G. G. Mitchell, Mr. R. James, Mr. G.W. W. Guy, Mrs. F.M. M. Mitchell, Mr. B. K. Sampson, Mrs. E.S. S. Morris, Mr. O.M. M. Waring, Mrs. S.J. J. Hunster, Mr. A.W. W. Henson, Miss S. J. Woodson, Mr. Solomon Day, Miss Susan Adams, Mr. J.S. S. Waring, Miss M.F. F. Williams, Mr. J.R. R. Blackburn, Miss A.M. M. Smith, Mr. E.D. D. Davis, Miss J.F. F. Jenefier, Mr. S. Peterson, Miss M.M. M. Napper, Mr. J.D. D. Betts, Miss F.A. A. Trotter, Mr. S.D. D. Fox, Miss M.E. E. Anderson, Mr. J.M. M. Meek, Miss B.V. V. Harris, Mr. A.N. N. Freeman, Miss C. Duncan, Miss A. Williams.

State Convention

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1861.OH-12.25.SPRI