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BUREAU OF REFUGEES, FREEDMEN AND ABANDONED LANDS,
HEADQUARTERS ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
Raleigh, N. C., November 6th, 1867

CIRCULAR LETTER.

The Assistant Commissioner desires to bring to the notice of all, the educational work which was conceived, nurtured and is now in successful operation under the auspices of this Bureau. The importance of this branch was early foreseen, and the efforts of its officers were directed to its speedy initiation–—the result has been a flattering success—–and with the co-operation of benevolent societies in the North—–thousands have been benefitted, who heretofore have lived in mental darkness.

Money, time, and energy have been freely expended—–and social and pecuniary sacrifices made to accomplish the desired end. More will be given, and renewed ardor infused in the work, in order to establish upon a firm basis institutions for the instruction of colored people.

To this end all who are interested in the welfare of freed people are invited to lend a helping hand by aiding in the establishment of schools in every section of the State. Societies and associations are invited to co-operate, as a vast amount of good can thus be accomplished.

Through the instrumentality of the Bureau the Assistant Commissioner is enabled to expend monies in the erection, repairs and rental of suitable buildings for school purposes, and he now calls upon the community to provide for the maintenance of teachers; a small monthly contribution will accomplish this, and could a moderate support be guaranteed, there will be no lack of instructors.

A few associations have already moved in the matter by making themselves responsible for the support of teachers in their respective sections, and it is to be hoped that others will follow their commendable example.

Schools have been established in two thirds of the counties of the State, and it is designed to organize one or more in the remaining counties. Three hundred and fifty dollars have been set apart for each county not yet provided–—which will be expended for the erection of buildings—–upon property owned by the parties desiring to build, or used in the repairs or the completion of buildings already built or building—–or for rent of suitable accommodations.

Officers and agents of the Bureau are directed to pay particular attention to this branch of their duties, and endeavor to promote its interests by inspections and advice, and by vigorous efforts second the designs of the Bureau, and the desires of those who study the welfare and elevation of the colored people; and they are also directed to immediately