Black Man's Burden, Chapter 9

A reading of William Holtzclaw's autobiography, Black Man's Burden. Chapter 9. William Holtzclaw was the founder of the Utica Normal and Industrial Institute, a "Little Tuskegee" in rural Utica, Mississippi. His book, the first published by an African American in Mississippi, recounts his journey in establishing the school.

Chapter 9 describes William H. Holtzclaw's efforts to promote Utica Institute during its early years. Holtzclaw organized the Utica Jubilee Singers to generate interest and support, facing challenges such as finding shelter in segregated areas. Despite adversity, Holtzclaw's impactful speeches during the tour garnered unexpected support from a Southern audience in New York, revealing the complexities of Southern sentiments toward racial issues.

The narrative also highlights the role of external benefactors, such as Miss Fidelia Jewett from San Francisco, whose visit led to the establishment of the Mary K. Jewett Memorial Hall. Holtzclaw emphasizes the need for industrial education and recounts his visit to New York to secure support for various trades. The chapter underscores the challenges faced in providing quality education and vocational training, including limited resources, untrained instructors, and the continuous struggle for improvement over the years. Additionally, Holtzclaw reflects on the importance of leadership in rural communities and addresses the political context in Mississippi, marked by Governor James K. Vardaman's controversial stance on race and education. Bishop Charles B. Galloway emerges as a staunch defender of Negro education during this tumultuous period.

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