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LINCOLN UNIVERSITY;
OR,
THE NATION'S FIRST PLEDGE
OF
EMANCIPATION.
BY
WILLIAM D. JOHNSON,
A STUDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY.
LINCOLN UNIVERSITY,
Oxford, Chester Co., Penna.
LINCOLN UNIVERSITY;
OR,
THE NATION'S FIRST PLEDGE
OF
EMANCIPATION.
BY
WILLIAM D. JOHNSON,
A student op the university.
" Come back to the truths that are in the Declaration of Independence. You may
do anything with me you choose, if you will but heed these sacred principles. You
may not only defeat me for the Senate, but you may take me and put me to death."
Abraham Lincoln, 1858.
••
PHILADELPHIA:
PUBLISHED FOR THE AUTHOR.
1867.
Printed by Alfred Martien,
21 south Seventh Street, Philadelphia.
PREFACE.
The author of this pamphlet is aware that many apologies
should be made for offering it to the public. The work of
its composition has occupied only the spare moments of a
few weeks; while he has been constantly engaged in the
engrossing studies of the college course.
His chief object has been to meet the pressing demands
for information as to the character and condition of Lin¬
coln University, which a residence of five years in the
institution enables him to give.
Besides, it seems that an institution resting upon so
broad and popular a foundation, and designed to meet the
issues of such a crisis as is now upon the American people,
should be brought prominently before the public.
Connected with the great name of our martyred President,
Abraham Lincoln, this' University stands at once his
memento, and an asylum for the millions for whom he sacri¬
ficed his life.
In presenting this pamphlet to the generous reader, the
author trusts that it may, in some degree, contribute to the
promotion of Education and Christianity.
LINCOLN UNIVERSITY.
Lincoln University is situated in Lower Oxford Town¬
ship, Chester County, Pennsylvania. It was incorporated
by the Legislature of the State in 1854, under the title of
Ashmun Institute. Its design was, to give a Theological,
Classical, and Scientific training to young men of color.
The following gentlemen composed the first Board of
Trustees:
Rev. John M. Dickey, D. D.
Rev. Alfred Hamilton, D. D.
Rev. Robert P. Dubois.
Rev. James Latta.
Rev. John B. Spotswood, D. D.
Rev. James M. Crowell, D. D.
Samuel J. Dickey, Esq.
John M. Kelton, Esq.
William Wilson, Esq.
Buildings, &c.
The University occupies a prominent and commanding
position upon one of the highest hills in this undulating
district. From its roof the eye looks down upon five
thrifty villages, besides the beautiful and enterprising town
of Oxford, three miles in the distance. Thesey with the
surrounding hills and fertile valleys—the placid streams,
now and then making a rapid bound toward the head¬
waters of the Chesapeake, fill the mind of the spectator
with mingled emotions of beauty and sublimity.
The locality is very healthy; no student has ever died in
the Institution. The Philadelphia and Baltimore Central
8
Railroad passes within half a mile of the University, afford¬
ing ample railroad and postal facilities.
The two principal buildings are called Ashmun Hall and
Lincoln Hall.
On the 30th of December, 1856, Ashmun Institute was
solemnly dedicated to the purposes of its erection. The
oration was delivered by Rev. C. Van Rensselaer, D. D., to
a large assemblage of philanthropists from various parts of
the country. Hope and fear struggled in each breast, as
they contemplated the future of the first American College
looking to the education of a people " despised and rejected."
With prayer they commended it to God.
The Institute was opened for the reception of students,
January 1st, 1857.
Ashmun Hall.
Ashmun Hall is built of brick, made and delivered upon
the ground by Samuel Glasgow, a colored man of great
enterprise, now a colonist in Africa. It is fifty feet in length,
forty in breadth, and three stories high. It forms the rear of
Lincoln University. The first story of Ashmun Hall is
used as a refectory, the second and third as study rooms.
TAncoln Hall.
Lincoln Hall was opened Sept. 12th, 1866. It is sixty feet
■square, projecting ten feet each side of Ashmun Hall. It is
made of fine brick, and has three pediment gables. The
entire work has been tastefully executed according to the
design of the celebrated architects, Messrs. Sloan & Hut-
ton, of Philadelphia. The total length of the two buildings
is one hundred and ten feet. The beautiful cupola when
finished, is to rise thirty feet above the main structure, giv¬
ing an elevation of eighty feet from the ground.
The University fronts towards the east; and from the
large portico a door opens into the vestibule of the first
floor.. Along this hall are located the office, reception-room,
private parlor, recitation and reading-rooms, and the labo¬
ratory.
On the second floor are the library, rooms for recitations
in theology, languages, mathematics, and general science.
The walls and ceilings throughout this story have been
9
handsomely stuccoed by Mr. Richard Milligan, of Oxford,
Pennsylvania.
The Chapel is on the south side of the central hall. It is
plain, though tastefully arranged, and will seat two hundred
students. Over the pulpit in the west end, are representations
of three tablets, upon which are written the decalogue and
the Lord's prayer. In the opposite extremity is an eleva¬
tion for the choir. A new organ has been purchased for
the chapel at a cost of $200, which was raised principally
by the students.
The third and fourth stories are occupied as dormitories.
Dwellings.
There are three fine dwellings belonging to the Univer¬
sity, occupied by the families of the President and Profes¬
sors. The two represented in the cut are similar in size
and structure. They are forty feet front and thirty-six deep,
are of excellent finish, and standing on either side of the
main edifice present an imposing appearance.
The land of the University, about forty-four acres, lies on
both sides of the road, and was purchased with a view to
future enlargements. The ornamental trees, grassy mounds,
and gravel walks immediately surrounding the buildings
are worthy of attention.
The value of the entire property is estimated at $63,000.
II. INSTRUCTION.
Early Professors.
The Professors of the University have been selected from
the most learned men in the country. Rev. John P. Carter,
of Baltimore, Md., was the first President, and Professor of
Theology. In 1861, he was succeeded by Rev. John W.
Martin, D. D., who had previously held many positions of
literary distinction. Dr. Martin was assisted by Rev. P. P.
Hedges, a graduate of the College. The following is the
Doctor's report to the Board of Education for 1864, and is a
fair representation of the work of Ashmun Institute during
the first seven years of its history.
10
report of dr. martin for 1864.
" Oxford, Chester Co., Pa., Feb. 1864.
"During the past year we have had in this Institute eighteen students.
They study spelling, reading, penmanship, geography, general history,
English grammar, composition, elocution, mathematics, the Hebrew,
Greek, and Latin languages, church history, and theology. In the last-
named subject we include all pulpit exercises, such as prayer, praise, read¬
ing and exposition of Scripture, with preaching, catechising, systematic
and pastoral theology. Sacred music is, to the students generally, a de¬
lightful exercise, and its cultivation is especially recommended to such stu¬
dents as wish to be teachers and missionaries.
"Fourteen of our students are preparing for the ministry, of which four
have been licensed during the year by the proper authorities of the Epis¬
copal, Methodist, and Presbyterian churches.
"Although most of our students desire to be teachers or preachers, yet
we receive youth and men of color, without any religious test.
" Of our Alumni, twelve have entered the ministry of the Methodist,
Presbyterian, and Baptist churches, including, of course, the three mis¬
sionaries, whose arrival in Africa enabled our Foreign Mission to form
their first Old-school Presbytery in that grand division of the globe. We
have also sent forth eleven teachers for common schools in different States,
for Africa, and for different places where freedmen congregate. As few,
if any, of the normal schools for teachers would receive colored men as
students, and as our students generally carry into their schools our habits
of Bible reading, prayer, and praise, this department seems second only to
the ministry of the gospel. Our students have also attained respectable
offices in the counting-house, the library, the lyceum, the navy, the army,
and the press. The editor's chair and the office of sergeant major have
already been attained; and as prejudice against color yields to enlightened
public opinion, we hope that some of our Alumni, or of their students, will
be prepared to compete creditably for the highest offices accessible to their
race.
" Such facts, with the cheerful aid afforded us by your Board, and by a
few of the excellent in our land, call upon us clearly to thank God and
take courage.
"As to endowment, two friends have proposed to give, each a thousand
dollars, if, in addition to these we raise six thousand. Having no paid
agent, and the little staff of instructors being more than fully occupied in
our special work, the raising'of funds devolves almost wholly upon the
Kev. Dr. Dickey, President of the Trustees.
"We may add that this has been the most favorable year for our institu¬
tion, and for the African Americans, upon which the sun has ever shone.
To God alone be all the praise through Jesus Christ.
" I am, dear brother, gratefully yours,
J. W. Martin, Principal
Dr. Martin resigned in 186/jVhen the present faculty
was organized.
11
FACULTY.
President, Rev. ISAAC N. KENDALL, New York.
Professor, Rev. LORENZO WESTCOTT, New Jersey.
Tutors—A. D. MINOR,
JOHN B. KENDALL.
COURSE OF STUDY.
Preparatory Department*
FIRST SESSION. SECOND SESSION.
Geography (Guyot's), Geography,
Arithmetic (Greenleaf s), Arithmetic,
English Grammar (Bullion's), English Grammar,
Latin Grammar (Bullion's). Latin Reader.
Collegiate Department.
FIRST YEAR.
FIRST SESSION. SECOND SESSION.
Algebra, Algebra,
Latin, Latin,
Greek Grammar (Bullion's), Greek Reader,
Universal History, Roman History,
Rhetoric, * Rhetoric,
Physical Geography. Physical Geography.
SECOND YEAR.
FIRST SESSION. SECOND SESSION.
Geometry (Playfair's Euclid), Geometry,
Latin, Plane Trigonometry,
Latin Prose Composition, Latin,
Greek, Greek,
History, Greek Prose Composition,
Constitution of the United States, Natural Theology,
Natural Philosophy. Chemistry.
THIRD YEAR.
FIRST SESSION. SECOND SESSION.
Trigonometry, Astronomy,
Navigation and Surveying, Geology,
Latin, Latin,
Greek, Greek,
Chemistry, Mental Philosophy,
Logic, Moral Philosophy, _
Evidences of Christianity. Evidences of Christianity.
Theological Studies.
FIRST YEAR. SECOND YEAR.
Greek Testament, Greek Testament,
Hebrew, Hebrew,
Church History, Didactic Theology,
Church Government, Pastoral Theology,
Homiletics. Homiletics.
The Bible is a text book throughout the entire course of
study.
Each student completing the college course receives the
degree of Bachelor of Arts.
12
The collegiate year consists of forty weeks, during which
time th£ students have four examinations. Each examina¬
tion has met the highest expectations of the Faculty and
Trustees. With the same patient industry by which their
labor has enriched the world, they are taking up the prob¬
lems of religion and science; and it is to be hoped that
their labors in these new fields will be followed by the most
profitable results.
The Commencement of 1866.
This commencement was attended by the first ladies and
gentlemen of the country. It was a glorious day! Many
will never forget it.
On the part of the students, the exercises showed deep
scientific thought and moral culture. They also expressed
a becoming gratitude toward those who had stood by our
race in the darkest hour of peril; and rose to outbursts of
joy in the prospect of returning justice.
Major-General O. O. Howard rose and said; "This is
one of the most happy moments of my life. The sentiments
of these young men have stirred your hearts, and they have
stirred mine. Now we are beginning to see the fruits of
many years of toil for the elevation of this people. For
myself, I feel encouraged to labor on, believing that the
time is near when not one shall drag the chain."
Remarks were also made by Hon. Wm. E. Dodge, Rev,
John M. Dickey, D. D., Rev. S. C. Logan, and other distin¬
guished gentlemen.
The allusions to President Lincoln were touching in the
extreme. In the name of a nation's martyr, a nation's pledge
ivas sealed—a pledge of universal and complete emancipation.
III. STUDENTS.
There are eighty-eight students in the University. They
are from all sections of the country, representing sixteen
States of the Union, and nearly all Protestant denomina¬
tions of Christians. There are in the theological depart¬
ment three ordained ministers and six licentiates.
Thirty of the students served in the army and navy of
the Republic during the rebellion, and took part in the
13
great battles before Charleston, Fort Fisher, Honey Hill,
Petersburg, and Port Hudson.
Many of the students are in possession of useful trades,
and have left promising situations to embrace the oppor¬
tunities here offered for study. They manifest great diver¬
sity of natural taste and ability. Some excel in the mathe¬
matics, some in the sciences, and some in the languages.
A mysterious Providence seems to have chosen them out
from the millions, in order that they might be prepared in
the shortest possible time, to become guides and instructors
of our oppressed brethren. And what is more strange,
some who seemed most stultified by the blighting influence
of slavery, have showed that they possess minds susceptible
of high cultivation. Like the treasure of our fatherland
that has remained concealed more than a dozen centuries in
the mountains and plains of that vast continent, the intel¬
lect of its sons has long been buried beneath mountains of
sore oppression and prejudice. But those huge mountains
are being uprooted and ground to powder by the power of
civil and religious liberty. The mind and treasure of
Africa have never been lost to the world. But they have
been reserved, in the purposes of an unseen Providence, for
this time, and are destined to shine with the collected
splendor of ages, in future periods of history.
Garnet Lyceum.
Connected with the University is a literary association,
known as the Garnet Lyceum. It is named after that noble
servant of God, Rev. Henry Highland Garnet, who was the
first of a sable skin to declare the name of Jesus in the
legislative hall of the nation. All the students are mem¬
bers of the Lyceum. The exercises are designed to fit its
members for the duties of active life. The members are
divided alphabetically into six divisions; and so arranged
that each division performs in one class of the exercises
every two weeks. They consist of debating, reading, com¬
position, and speaking. The zeal with which these duties
are performed, is worthy of remark.
The society elects its own officers, who serve for a term
of six weeks. The stated meetings are every Friday even¬
ing.
14
Ashmun Institute Journal.
This is the name of a neatly printed newspaper, formally
issued by Ashmun Institute, the work of which was carried
on principally by the students. Its motto was, " The night is
far spent; the day is at hand? Its columns were devoted
to the interests of the institution, and the elevation of the
colored race. Its publication was discontinued in 1860.
Religion in the University.
Religious influence in the University is great. Morning
and evening prayers, the sermon and conference of the Sab¬
bath day are regular college exercises, upon which all the
students are expected to attend. Besides these, a flourish¬
ing noon-day prayer meeting has been kept up by the
students since the opening of Ashmun Institute. The
godly example of those who are most zealous in this meet¬
ing, wields a powerful influence over every young man in
the institution. There has been almost a continuous revi¬
val of religion among them for three years. Sometimes the
Holy Spirit sheds his influence like the silent dew of heaven,
and the burdened sigh alone escapes the lips of the laden
sinner, and is followed by gentle accents of praise; and
then He comes like the sound of a rushing, mighty wind,
and the unregenerate soul cries out, "men and brethren,
what shall I do to be saved1?" and men saved by the power
of Jesus shout hallelujah to his name.
National Sentiment of the Students.
The strong national feeling that inspires the breast of the
Africo-American is nowhere more displayed than among
the students of Lincoln University. The Constitution of
the United States is a regular study of the Freshman Class;
and as they behold its ample provisions, sustained by the
sanction of justice and humanity, binding together a com¬
mon and mighty people with a grasp stronger than the
bands of Orion, that noble patriotism which characterized
them in less auspicious days, bursts forth in the glow of
admiration. To appreciate fully the love which these
young men have for the country and flag of the Union, we
must go back to the period of the nation's inception. Go,
break the bow of the dusky warrior, and turn the toma-
15
hawk that ^ is raised in vengeance—bow to the rigors of
taxation without representation—shiver with Washington
in the march to Valley Forge—achieve again the victories
of the Jerseys, and for the first time, see the flag float, free
as the winds of heaven over the City of Brotherly Love.
That flag is a purer, a brighter emblem to-day! Beneath
her folds the shackles of two mighty races have been
broken, and sanctified afresh in the life-blood of freedom,
in glory she streams over a united Western world. And the
eagle to-day, cut loose from the trammels of slavery, soars
nearer the sun of liberty, and claims a wider space for his
majestic wing.
IY. GROWTH OF LINCOLN UNIVERSITY.
Its Founder—A Darh JSFight—Effect of the late War upon the
Institution—The Irospect, &c., &c.
In the light of the present day it is hard to understand
the difficulties in the way of founding a college for the
education of colored men in 1856. As we look upon the
stately pile of Ashmun and Lincoln Halls, surrounded with
the comfortable dwellings of the Professors, and attended
by their hundred students, we can hardly realize that this
was ever a difficult work. Such a sight in prospect would
seem to touch the heart, and quicken the benevolence of
every philanthropist: and yet this whole scheme was
designed by one man. The founder of this institution was
alone in this work for years. And even when the plan was
formed, and brought to the attention of the public, he had
to encounter cold indifference from most men high in
place, both in Church and State; and actual opposition
from others; whilst only a few were willing to speak a
word of encouragement, and still fewer to lend material aid
for its accomplishment.
So great were the prejudices to be encountered that
with great difficulty land was obtained on which to erect
the college edifice. A.nd when no means could be obtained
from those who were most friendly, the founder of this
Institution mortgaged his private property to obtain the
means for erecting the first buildings; and for years he
obtained the means of supporting both students and profes-
16
sors by application to "personal friends; supplementing what
was wanting from his own private means.
During all these dark days he never faltered in his course,
surrounded by coldness, prejudice, and pecuniary embarrass¬
ment, he persevered with a steady hand, a warm heart, and
a strong faith, until by the blessing of God his hopes and
labors are about to be crowned with success. The man who
did this, Rev. John M. Dickey, D. D., President of the
Board of Trustees, is still laboring earnestly to complete
the endowment of this Institution. History will do him
justice.
Lincoln University had but a small beginning. While
the first buildings were being erected, Dr. Dickey instructed
a single student in his own house. And the College was
opened by Professor Carter with only four students, and it
was not until the second year that an average of ten was
reached.
As a pioneer in this work, Professor Carter was eminently
successful. His course of instruction included the primary
branches, besides philosophy, mathematics, and theology.
Dr. Martin, the second President, came to the Institution
at a time when it was under great embarrassment. The
mind of the American people was then swelling with those
convulsions which soon afterwards broke out into a desper¬
ate civil conflict. During this time the supports of the
Institution were nearly all removed, and for a time its col¬
lapse was daily expected. Its old friends were alienated,
its treasury exhausted, and many of its students enlisted for
the war. Its existence was only preserved by the sacri¬
ficing efforts of Dr. Dickey. He had watched over its pro¬
gress, and guarded its interests, with an entire self-devotion.
Relying upon the intimations of Providence, he had in¬
scribed deep in the marble slab that adorned the front of
Ashmun Institute, these blazing words of inspiration, " The
night is far spent; the day is at hand." There Was his
hope; and upon its realization depended the great mission
of his life. That hope was almost obscured by the darkness
of the hour. The hallowed spirit of them that watch for
the morning was fast yielding to a gloomy despair. But in
that hour of weakness, God was imparting strength for the
17
labors of a glorious day. At that moment the light of a
winged Providence was piercing the outer clouds of that
black oppression which had settled down upon the great
American continent; and that light was advancing with
unmeasured swiftness towards the desecrated throne of civil
and religious liberty, "the day was at hand; but the very
heralds of the day-spring spread a universal consternation.
The last of four terrible years lifted the dark curtain, and
disclosed the worst horrors of a wicked, but mighty rebel¬
lion. War drove his midnight car to the utmost boundary
of savage warfare—the tocsin of every town, city, and vil¬
lage, called the last available man to the struggle of life and
death, and the thunder of a thousand cannon shook the
solid globe. The scudding rocket and bursting bomb cast
a red glare over the wide, unsightly ravages of the monster,
Slavery, who was then expiring in the midst of a million
victims. There lies his huge carcass pierced by the swords
of a billion freemen. Grim despair sits upon his brow, and
oblivion waits to hide him from the eyes of mortals. There
the sons of the Union, reposing in death, cover a hun¬
dred fields. A holy cause has left its brightest impress upon
each devoted brow. Here the noble representatives of every
nation gathered; and having placed their lives upon the
sacred altars of liberty, they lay down in the embrace of a
common brotherhood. Gracious Liberty will write their
names in characters of light upon the Temple of Time, that
the world's future generations may rise up and call them
blessed. There, the noble Lincoln, the emancipator of the
races, is struck down by the meanest assassin, and is borne
by a mighty procession to the faithful tomb. The nations
are his mourners. And though he sleep with his fathers, he
lives in the heart of humanity.
What soul can remain unmoved, in the contemplation of
the trials from which we have just been freed'? Whence
came they, and from whom^ " He doeth according to his
will in the army of heaven and among the inhabitants of
the earth; and none can stay his hand, or say unto him,
What doest thoul" Dan. iv. 35. As a nation, God hath
rejected all our affliction of soul and hypocrisy, and with a
chastening hand, he hath made us willing to obey his great
2
18
command. " Is not this the fast that I have chosen"? to
loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens,
and let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke]
Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou
bring in the poor that are cast out to thy house] When
thou seest the naked that thou cover him; and that thou
hide not thyself from thine own flesh] Then shall thy light
break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring
forth speedily, and thy righteousness shall go before thee;
the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward." Isaiah lviii.
6—8. Here we have the universal law of brotherly kind¬
ness. And it is alone by the light of the Holy One, that
we are able to see the blessings of its fulfilment. The glory
of his approbation now illumines our peaceful country.
The poor bondman is joyfully returning from two and a half
centuries of inhuman toil—his galling yoke is removed—
the heavy burden rolls from his shoulders—the hand-cuff is
broken, and a biting prejudice alone binds his bleeding
limbs as he enters upon the common pursuits of men.
This light now beams upon Lincoln University; and here
these returning outcasts are enjoying the blessings of a
Christian education.
Although it was with much difficulty the Institution was
kept open during the war, the very fact of overcoming,
under such unfavorable circumstances, has inspired its
friends with enlarged hope for its future success. The
issues of the war have brought about a favorable and com¬
plete revolution in the operations of the Institution, as well
as in popular opinion, with reference to its incalculable im¬
portance. New pecuniary resources have been opened up,
and the proper persons are working to promote its interests.
In the past two years its growth has surpassed all expecta¬
tion. Two new buildings have been erected, and other
improvements made to the amount of $40,000.
The charter has been so modified as to change the name
to Lincoln University; and all the privileges have been
secured, which its title implies. Vigorous efforts are now
being made to raise an endowment of $250,000. The
agents have met with great success, and it is hoped that in
a short time this endowment will be complete.
19
Of this sum, the interest of $120,000 is to be devoted to
the education of students, and $50,000 to the erection of
new buildings.
^ The schools of the Freedmen's Bureau and other educa¬
tional establishments, are sending large numbers here to
pursue an advanced course of education.
Y. THE EDUCATION OF THE FREEDMEN A NATIONAL
WORK.
Slavery in the United States—Condition of the Freednten—Some
Special objects of the United States Constitution—Power of the
people to educate, &c., &c.
In all governments there have been times when great
evils have arisen; and every wise nation has taken measures
to reform them. Even those who disregarded justice, have
acted upon the self-evident truth that a national evil requires
a national remedy. Our most illustrious statesmen and the
great American people, have declared that slavery was a
national evil; and its very principle has been condemned
by the wise and good of all ages. And to no government
could it be more destructive than one like our own; for it
aims the death blow at the vitals of republican institutions.
Wherever it has existed it has distracted the popular mind
and arrayed the people against each other. And the nation
that has not had the foresight and the power to check its
progress, has fallen beneath its withering stroke. Slavery,
as it existed in the United States, was long since regarded
as a national evil; and it could not be destroyed by indi¬
vidual action. But feeding upon the life-blood of the nation
it transformed itself into a mighty giant, whose grim stature
darkened heaven; and standing upon a foundation of two
and a half centuries, applied the accursed lever of civil war
to the very corner-stone of a republic destined to become
the model government of the world. His aim was the
destruction of human liberty, and by the exertion of his
evil power he shook the civilized world to its centre: till
the nation rising up in the strength of a holy constitu¬
tional power, cut the giant down and stamped his name
with eternal infamy. But evils seldom exist alone, and
especially great evils.
"One master passion nourished in the breast,
Like Aaron's serpent swallows all the rest."
20
If it was our duty to destroy slavery as an evil, it is also
our duty to destroy those evils which grew out of it.
Slavery was nourished in the bosom of the American people
till it became lord of the land, and there followed in its train
an innumerable retinue of evils. The greatest of these was
ignorance; it still lives, and if not destroyed, slavery will
yet obtain an inglorious resurrection by means of a wicked
incantation.
A crisis of an extraordinary character is upon the nation,
and the nation must meet its issues. Four million human
beings, blinded by the darkness of an awful dungeon, have
come forth after a confinement of two hundred and forty-
seven years. They are calling upon us for light. Their
united prayer is w7afted by every wind, and moves the
Christian world. Give light! give light! is the Freedman's
cry to philanthropy. We must give them light; light of
morality, light of the gospel, light of literature and practi¬
cal government. They are a part of the nation; they served
the people; and the people have emancipated them in form;
but without education, emancipation is not complete.
We must educate them.
This duty is in strict accordance with the spirit and letter
of the Constitution, the first object of which is "to form a
more perfect union." Education is the most effectual means
for the accomplishment of this noble design.
It was a notorious custom with the conquerors of the
world, to force their language upon the conquered as the
best way of securing their affections. The language of the
Britons withstood the occupation of the Romans, and was
afterwards supplanted by the Anglo-Saxon language, which
in turn was put under a heavy pressure from the Norman
"French; but rising in its power and majesty, it triumphed
over the Norman, and by new conquests is now binding the
human family with its silken cords of harmony.
Inheriting not only the English language, bat a love for
our customs and laws, these four million freedmen, properly
educated, will add greatly to the controlling influence of the
nation. The immortal Webster says, "It is every poor
man's undoubted birthright—it is the great blessing which
this Constitution has secured to him—it is his solace in life,
21
and it -may well be his consolation in death, that his coun¬
try stands pledged, by the faith it has plighted to all its
citizens, to protect his children from ignorance, barbarity,
and vice. Professor Burleigh says: "Let it never be for¬
gotten that teachers, and not warriors, common schools and
not swords and bayonets, sustain and perpetuate the power
and glory of our country and its more perfect union."
Would we establish justice'? Human justice has its foun¬
dation in a knowledge of those moral and physical laws, by
which God governs the universe. Would we insure domes¬
tic tranquillity'? Equalize the national mind. Would we
provide for the common defence] The combination of free
American citizens will form a living, insurmountable bul¬
wark around the entire country. If we would promote the
general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to our¬
selves and our posterity, let us be true to the Constitution—
true alike to every citizen—true to the innate principle of
justice—true to ourselves and to our God. These all com¬
bine with the genius of American liberty, and call upon us
with an irresistible voice, to perform this sacred duty. It
will be done.
Already hundreds of teachers have gone into the field of
labor. But there is a great deficiency. What an immense
corps of teachers is required to meet the pressing demands
of four million souls thirsting for truth!
Besides, it seems that the more intelligent of themselves
should be speedily prepared to take part in this great work.
We do not object to white teachers; but we do believe that
well qualified colored teachers could accomplish more among
them in the same time. The freedman recognizes them as
having been fellow-sufferers in bondage. In them he sees
a living proof of what he may become by application to
study.
It is in accordance with the conviction and wish of all
classes that such teachers should be sent. But where shall
they be obtained] These demands cannot be met at present,
but the educational resources of the American people, with
a proper exertion, will be adequate to the occasion.
22
YI. LINCOLN UNIVERSITY AN IMPORTANT AGENCY
IN THE EDUCATION OF THE FREEDMEN.
Early advantages—JVorJc of its Alumni among the freedmen—its
present position and aims.
Ten years ago, under a wise and inscrutable Providence,
Lincoln University was preparing to meet, in great part, the
demands for the education of four million slaves, soon to be
emancipated. And at this time it is better prepared to
meet them than any other Institution in the country.
Founded in prayer, favored by Almighty God, and sustained
by a generous people, it may become a great national source
of education. Its Trustees reside in different sections of the
country; they represent the great Protestant denominations,
and occupy the best positions in Church and State. Its
students represent more States than existed when the Con¬
stitution was formed. And at this time one hundred and fifty
applications for admission are before the Faculty, mostly
from the South and West. The number of students will
be increased to several hundred as soon as the necessary en¬
largements can be completed,
Besides our Alumni laboring in foreign countries, and in
the Eastern and Middle States, about fifteen are prosecuting
the work of education and Christianization among the freed¬
men of the South—where some are also taking an active
part in the work of reconstruction. They report that the
ill-feeling of the former master against the freed man is
steadily decreasing; thus affording better opportunity for
the operations of the teacher and preacher.
Of the students now in the University, eighty have
pledged themselves for this special work.
The following figures are taken from the reports of Rev.
P. P. Hedges, Rev. James H. Crawford, and Robert G.
Fitzgerald, as follows:
Rev. P. P. Hedges reports Camp Holmes, N. C.—Church, congregation
200. School, pupils 145.
Raleigh, N. C.—Church, congregation 300.
Wilmington, JST. C.—Church, members 45, congregation 100. School,
pupils 60. Sabbath-school, 60.
Edisto Island, S. C.—Church, 120 members. School, 330 pupils. Sab¬
bath-school, 100.
Rev. James H. Crawford, missionary and superintendent of schools,
23
reports schools in Franklinton, Oxford, Warrenton, and Louisburg, N. C.
ey have an aggregate of 720 pupils. His churches are in a flourishing
condition. G
Robert G-. Fitzgerald, teacher of the Freedman's school at Amelia
Court House, Va., reports 392 pupils,.
These three young men have in a short time succeeded
in bringing nearly two thousand freedmen under the in¬
fluence of religious and literary instruction. These are but
the first fruits of Lincoln University.
If any one make the objection that this is an institution
for colored men, and therefore has a tendency to promote
distinction of color, we admit that colored men may be
received into some of the colleges of the country, and we
have no objection to make. Would to God that all were
open to them; but they are not. Some have been even
removed from these, because it was found impossible to
brook the current of an old established prejudice.
There are now in the. United States 230 colleges, 82
theological seminaries, and 48 schools of medicine, having
an aggregate of 59,866 students. How many of these stu¬
dents are colored'? It is a question whether there be more
in all the others than are now in Lincoln University. This
Institution excludes no one on account of eace or color.
It is almost certain that all our literary institutions must
adopt this just principle. But how long will it take to
effect this revolution] At least one generation must pass
away before it can be effected. This is no time for delay.
Four millions of our brethren are in darkness; and as Ame¬
rican citizens, greater responsibilities are every day being
laid upon us. Ours is a present necessity; and Lincoln
University offers a present assistance. Lincoln University is
in friendly relations with the first colleges in the country;
and the attainments we make here will never exclude us
from them. Even the ancients said, " The gods help them
that help themselves." Besides, how many of our people are
prepared to stand an examination for admission to college]
The academies do not invite us.
Here this disadvantage is obviated by the preparatory
department, to enter which the student is required to ha\e
made but moderate attainments in the primary branches.
The last and greatest consideration is that our people
24
generally are not able to pay the necessary expense of pur¬
suing an education. How many of our noble young men,
from this very cause, are now hampered or circumscribed
by ignorance'? Lincoln University proposes to meet this
difficulty. In most colleges a scholarship covers only the
charges for tuition; but here it includes the cost of board,
instruction, &c. And the Trustees have borne at least two-
fifths of the entire expense of all the students since 1857.
In view of the necessity and the time in which we live,
no one can fail to see, that for the education of our people,
these social and religious, literary and pecuniary advan¬
tages must place Lincoln University far in advance of all
similar institutions in the country. And this is the result
of its broad national character.
VII. NECROLOGY.
Mev. James JRalsion Amos.
James Ralston Amos was a native of Pennsylvania. He
spent the early part of his life on the farm, in the pur¬
suits of which he was very industrious. Although he
had but little education at this time, he was possessed
of an uncommon amount of native good sense. He was
a devoted servant of God; and became a minister in the
M. E. Church. He felt an intense desire for education,
and having failed in many attempts to secure it, he
knew not what to do. Being strong in faith, he went to
God in this time of need. He was seen regularly to
approach a large stone near the present situation of Lin¬
coln University, but then a secluded place, where he was
accustomed to pray that a door of education might be
opened to him.
In 1853, he wrote a letter to Rev. John M. Dickey, D. D.,
in which he described his feelings in regard to his inabili¬
ties, to perform with satisfaction the duties of the ministerial
office, and implored the required assistance. Dr. Dickey
says: "Such an affecting letter I never before read." It is
much regretted that a copy of it cannot be obtained for
publication. He was immediately accepted by Dr. Dickey,
and entered upon a thorough course of study under that
eminent divine, who was ever afterwards his most devoted
friend.
25
hile thus prosecuting his studies he attended regularly
to his appointments as a travelling minister, walking a dis¬
tance of twenty-seven miles each week.
Soon the plan for the establishment of Ashmun Institute
was projected and carried forward. For a year he was
engaged as an assistant in erecting the buildings, and after¬
wards ^ as the first steward of Ashmun Institute. During
all this time he prosecuted his studies with remarkable
success. He kept constantly in mind, the expressive
maxim, that "The oil of gladness glistens only upon the
brow of labor."
He graduated with the class of 1858. In October of the
same year he was licensed and ordained by the Presbytery
of New Castle, Delaware, and afterwards sailed a mis¬
sionary to Africa, in company with Rev. Armistead Miller,
and the present pastor of the Presbyterian Church in
Monrovia, his brother, Rev. Thomas Amos, also a graduate
of the institution.
Rev. James R. Amos and his companions arrived safely
in Liberia, in the summer of 1859, and in a few weeks was
successfully operating in his missionary station at Green¬
ville, Sinou county. Subsequently he established a mis¬
sionary station at Niffou, where he was the means of accom¬
plishing much good. The following extract is from his
letter to Rev. Dr. Dickey, dated Niffou, June 5th, 1861.
"We are happily situated in this place, and find it to be
the greatest and most interesting field in Liberia. "We are
among the largest and most tyrannizing tribe on the coast;
and they say that their tribe extends back to the volcanic
mountains on the North, and to the waters of the Niger
River Northeast. We have written the Board for advice
in relation to exploring that part of the continent.
"Our school is full, we have twenty-four boarders, and the
Sabbath-school is very large; the people come to hear the
word of God. Morning and evening prayers find many in
attendance. We have access to many thousand heathens.
"We have built a boat since we acclimated^ with which
we transport our goods and effects from Greenville. She is
a most excellent sea boat. Thomas and myself have taken
passage in her several times. She is manned with five
26
natives, one of whom is captain, a worthy and trusty fellow.
The President and many others have given us the greatest
applause for our adventure.
"You must know, that even never tiring perseverance and
undaunted courage, without the special direction of the
providence and grace of God, could never have accom¬
plished what we have been the humble instruments in
doing, in the last six months."
It will be seen that the labors of the missionaries were
not simply to preach the word, but also to open up the way
for that great work. Besides a necessary acquaintance with
the useful arts, it was found that a knowledge of the natural
sciences was, to them, of much service.
While Mr. Amos was travelling as a missionary, he con¬
tributed some valuable accessions to the museum of Ashmun
Institute, as well as other scientific collections.
In 1864, Mr. Amos was called to the United States, on
business relating to his labors in Africa. He visited New
York, Philadelphia, Reading, and other cities of the Union.
While laboring temporarily in the Presbyterian Church at
Reading, Pennsylvania, he died of consumption, only a few
months from the time he landed in the States.
In the death of Mr. Amos, an important link of connec¬
tion between two great continents was severed, and very
many hearts were made sorrowful by the severe stroke of
Providence, which removed him from labor to reward.
Mr. Amos was kind and gentle in his disposition, though
possessed of much force of character. As a gospel minister
he sought the salvation of all, but felt that his great calling
was to seek the conversion and elevation of his own op¬
pressed people in Africa; and the results of his patient and
faithful labors in that benighted land, have enrolled his
name with the most distinguished missionaries and pioneers
who. have visited that continent.
Mr. John W. Holm.
An extract from the Presbyterian Almanac for 1864.
John W. Holm, son of John W. and Margaret (Baron)
Holm, was born in the town of St. Thomas, in the Island
of St. Thomas, Danish West Indies, in the year 1837.
While but an infant his mother and father died, and he
27
was taken to live with his grand-parents at Tortola, a small
island east of St. Thomas. They were very poor people,
but devoted Christians. They taught John to love and
fear God, and walk in his ways. They sent him to the
district school, and determined to do all they could to have
him educated to the extent of their ability. But soon they
were called from the cares of this life, and poor John was
again left alone in the earthly struggle.
Not long after this sad bereavement, he was taken back
to St. Thomas by his uncle, Mr. Alexander Baron, a dealer
in segars, and apprenticed to the trade of segar-maker.
So well was his uncle pleased with .his deportment, that he
soon committed to him the general direction of business in
the establishment. In this situation he remained until he
was twenty-two years of age.
Mr. Holm never departed from that religious turn of
mind he had received from his parents and grand-parents.
He always shunned the company of wicked persons. His
delight was to be in the Sabbath-school and the lyeeum.
On the 27th of March, 1853, he was confirmed by Rev.
John Knox, pastor of the Dutch Reformed Church, of which
Mr. Holm became a useful member.
He had from early childhood cherished the idea of be¬
coming a missionary in Africa; and in 1859, rather unex¬
pectedly to his friends, he started upon that important
mission. In this voyage he came to the United States via
Halifax, and visited Boston, New York, and Philadelphia.
In the midst of pecuniary embarrassment, he met Rev. J. B.
Pinney, LL.D., in New York, who from that time became
his constant friend. Learning of his intention to sail foe
Africa, and discovering in him a vigorous intellect, Dr.
Pinney urged him to remain in the United States to com¬
plete his education. But he could not be persuaded.
Having made the passage to that benighted country, and
seen the great need of educated men, he soon returned to
follow the advice of Dri Pinney. Aided by Hon. Wm. E.
Dodge of New York, he entered Ashmun Institute, where
he studied two years, thence to the Theological Seminary
at Auburn, New York, entering as a member of the Junior
class in 1861.
28
In 1862 he was licensed by the Cayuga Presbytery, and
during the summer of 1863, he was laboring as a stated
supply to the Siloam Presbyterian Church, Brooklyn, New
York. While thus engaged in his' Master's cause he died
of typhoid fever, September 10th, 1863.
The unexpected death of Mr. Holm caused a shadow to
fall upon many a heart; and upon none more than those
who had been endeared to him by the social ties of college
life. Appropriate exercises were held concerning his death
by the Faculty and students of Auburn Seminary and Ash-
mun Institute.
Mr. Holm's traits of character were marked. Some
excellent ones were so prominent that none failed to observe
them, but there were others more excellent, nobler, con¬
cealed in his modest and retiring demeanor, and manifest
only as called out in the course of duty, or surprised into
action by some sudden hope or fear for the success or defeat
of a cherished plan.
At the meeting of the students of Auburn Seminary,
called in consequence of his death, Pev. Prof. J. B. Condit,
D. D., said: "When he entered this institution two years
ago, perhaps all felt that it would be difficult so to treat him
that he would be happy and at home with us. His position
and bearing at once, were such that the difficulty vanished.
He speedily won our respect, confidence, and love. He
has mingled with us in social intercourse in the class-room,
in the religious services of the chapel, with such modesty,
gentleness, and devotion to his one great purpose as a
Christian student, that we shall always love to cherish his
memory."
Nathaniel 2Vr. Lindsey.
Nathaniel N. Lindsey was raised in Fallowfield township,
Chester county, Pennsylvania. He was a farmer boy.
Having attended the public school of his district to great
advantage, and desiring to become a teacher to his needy
race, he entered Ashmun Institute in 1858, when about 17
years of age. Here he pursued his studies diligently until
1860, when he determined to sail for Liberia. Having pro¬
cured the necessary direction he took passage the same year,
29
and arriving safe in that infant Republic, he began his
favorite and noble work of instructing the benighted sons of
Ham. His hope was large and bright, but was destined
soon to fade like the full blown flower that continueth but
a day. His labors in Africa were short, he, not long after
his arrival, being prostrated with a malady from which he
died in a few months.
His relatives and many friends in America mourn his
early death.
Lindsey was a sweet and affectionate youth; yet very de¬
cided in his character. Had he been spared a few years
longer, his labors would have perpetuated his name.
JRev. Charles C. Hartshorn.
Charles C. Hartshorn was born in Cecil county, Mary¬
land, on the 10th of June, 1829. He was raised on the
farm and became a hard-working industrious man.
He embraced religion when but a youth, and was in early
life a local preacher in the African Methodist Episcopal
Church, where his labors were very acceptable. But being
convinced that he ought to give himself entirely to the work
of the ministry, in 1863 he entered Ashmun Institute, in
order to prepare himself more fully for its duties. In this
Institution, he studied with much advantage till 1865; dur¬
ing the height of the rebellion he enlisted for the war. He
went into camp William Penn, Philadelphia, where, after a
few days illness, he died on the first of August, about six
weeks from the time of enlistment.
Mr. Hartshorn's death produced a deep and general sen^.
sation of grief among the students and his numerous friends.
He was a straightforward, sober, and honest man. His
pleasant manner and correct deportment made him beloved
by all who knew him.
30
VIII. OUR INSTITUTION.
An Address delivered by William D. Johnson, at the Commence¬
ment, dune 29th, 1866.
Mr. President, Friends, and Fellow-Students:
This Institution has passed through the period of experi¬
ment. It has at times been shaken to its foundation; and
its enemies have prayed that it might fall. Its supporters,
true friends of our race, relied upon God. They believed
that this college would be a lever to assist in raising the
once mighty, but palsied hand of Ethiopia, which she sighs
to stretch out to the eternal God.
A young colored man, who felt, "woe is unto me, if I
preach not the gospel," and who also felt very much the
need of education, was seen regularly to approach a large
stone, near the present situation of this building, where he
prayed that God would help him. He became the private
student of I)r. Dickey. Ashmun Institute was planned,
and that stone, so often washed by the tears of the earnest
seeker, was the first in its foundation. He was its first
student—its first graduate—its first missionary to Africa.
How many young men have followed his steps'? How many
are now oppressed with groanings which cannot be uttered,
for the same reasons that once bowed him down'? How
many are now pursuing the same course \
Sirs, the labors of the past year have made this Institu¬
tion like a high and shining sun, whose light, diverging in
ten thousand directions, cheers the dark minds of hundreds
just liberated from slavery. This is the grand centre of
attraction to our young men aspiring to usefulness and
honor. She has closed ten years with an average of the
same number of students each year to represent her; but
how different is it to-day1? Her walls are crowded, and
she is expanding her wings to make room for her famish¬
ing children. An institution that has kept but a doubtful
pace with ten years, has suddenly thrown away the robe of
obscurity and become a University. To-day the prayer of
Van Rensselaer is more than answered. Here, ten souls
have been converted to God in a single day. Our friends
31
are in the high places of the nation. The exigencies of the
war have filled our halls with those who had not the hardi¬
hood to expect such blessings. Whilst our large and im¬
posing buildings are rearing their spires toward heaven
under a new and revered appellation.
Yes, the name is changed. In the history of the world¬
wide efforts to elevate our race, there does not appear two
more illustrious names than those adopted by our institu¬
tion. As African-Americans, we shall regard them as the
strong and beautiful pillars which shall- support the fallen
energies of a people emancipated by their efforts. As
students of the University, we shall remember them alike.
Ashmun, thy self-denial, thy extended labors beneath the
tropical sun of our fatherland, the sacrifice of-thy life upon
the desolated altars of poor Africa, will never be forgotten.
Thou hast touched a chord in the heart of our people that
will vibrate for ever. The garland placed over the door of
the college by Van Rensselaer, in perpetuation of thy
memory, shall not be trampled in the dust, nor marred.
But while the brightness of Lincoln's name shall adorn the
outward tabernacle, thine shall be cherished in the sanctum
sanctorum of our hearts.
But what shall we say of Lincoln X A hardy but honest
son of the West emerged from obscurity, and by the flicker¬
ing light of Providence, hewed his way through the dark
passes of political life, and standing at the head of the ages,
he preached deliverance to the enslaved. He struck for the
liberties of a persecuted and despised people, whom all
feared to assist, and but few pitied. He redeemed them
with his blood. O how the heart struggles to measure its
outbursting gratitude! The effort is vain. It is like a
drop in the ocean. It is swallowed up in the emotions of
the great. The prairies still droop over his hallowed tomb.
The nations still weep at hearing his name. Senates still
cherish the drapery that enshrouded their halls in gloom.
Marble is fashioned, to his likeness, and his greatness is
written upon the eternal rocks. But O, Lincoln, our
martyr, What can we do'? Poor, despised, and disfran¬
chised, we still drag the chain. Yet, we hope, because thy
32
friends, thy true friends, are struggling with us in the holy
cause for which thou didst die. But ah! what gratitude
stirs my breast! My muse, whither hast thou fled! Mar¬
tyred Lincoln!
When nations hush the muffled sob of woe,
When our last tear thro' ages vast shall flow,
When Senates lose their drapings worn for thee,
Thou martyred champion of the noble free,
Here on this consecrated spot shall rise,
Shall lift thy hallowed mem'ry to skies
A monument of intellectual blaze,
Shall gild thy labors thro' unnumbered days;
And by its light shall Afric's children blest,
Thy goodness read. Rest, Lincoln, rest!