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Lavaca, Texas
January 21st, 1867

1st Lieut. J. T. Kirkman U. S. A.
A. A. A. Gen'l. Bureau R. F. & A. L.
Galveston.

Sir:

In obedience to instructions received from General Kiddoo, I have the honor to inform you, that I arrived at this place, this morning, for the purpose of assisting the freedpeople here, to buy a lot & build a schoolhouse upon it.  The lot is purchased for $30.00/100 Special and paid for and the location is convenient. They have also about 2000 feet of old lumber, which can be used, but according to the plan of the building, the must have at least 7500' of lumber, which leaves about 5500' to be furnished; also 14000 shingles 2 doors & 6 windows and 5 keg of nails; the lowest estimate to complete the building, will be $800.00/100. The freedmen think they will be able to contribute $200.00/100, but have agreed, to build the school on a smaller scale, if the Bureau is not able or willing to pay the rest.
This seem to me a discerning community, anxious to have a school for their children, which could also be their house of worship. I send this letter by