Black Man's Burden, Chapter 16

A reading of William Holtzclaw's autobiography, Black Man's Burden. Chapter 16. 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.

This chapter captures William H. Holtzclaw's reflection on the journey of the Utica Normal and Industrial Institute since its inception in 1903. Holtzclaw recounts the institute's humble beginnings, starting in a wilderness with no capital or immediate allies. Despite initial skepticism, they persevered, steadily advancing their mission to establish an industrial educational institution akin to Hampton and Tuskegee. By April 1909, the institute had made significant strides, enrolling five hundred students across various departments and employing twenty-five teachers and officers, many of whom were educated at prestigious schools across the North and South.

Under Holtzclaw's leadership, the institute prioritized industrial training, with agriculture taking precedence due to its relevance to the local community, where ninety-five percent of people were engaged in agricultural activities. Other industries, such as carpentry, blacksmithing, sewing, and electrical engineering, were also taught. Beyond academics, the institute played a pivotal role in fostering societal changes, including the ownership of homes by Black families and the promotion of orderly religious services, signaling a transformation in community dynamics. Holtzclaw's dedication to keeping the institute financially stable, even resorting to creative fundraising methods, underscores his commitment to its success and sustainability.

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