Viewing page 65 of 262

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

[[stamp]] The National Archives of the United States [[/stamp]]

Union Springs Ala
March 16, 1867.

General Swayne Montgomery Ala

Sir I address you this letter for information. What provision will be made in regard to Educating the Freedmen? As educating them will reduce Crime among them, it is highly important they should be instructed. What they be required to build their own School houses and employ their own Teachers as think proper? or will they be assisted from any quarter. There are but four localities where they are able to do this now. The Freedmen in this place are contemplating [[strikethrough]] for [[/strikethrough]] building a School House, in consequence of which, I make this enquiry for them. What in your opinion, would be the probable success of getting a donation from the people about Washington for this object provided the individual seeking the favor, was recommended by the Governor of this State, or yourself. I mearly make this inquiry for the benefit of the Freedmen at this place, as I was thinking of visiting Washington. We should treat this people so as not to ailenate them from us, as their interest is own interest. Answer this immediately and oblige &c
J.R. Siler

[[right margin]] Mar 19, 67 [[/right margin]]