Freedmen's Aid Society facts for kids
The Freedmen's Aid Society was an important group started in 1859 during the American Civil War. It was created by the American Missionary Association (AMA), which was mainly supported by churches like the Congregational, Presbyterian, and Methodist churches in the North. The Society helped find teachers from the North and provided homes for them. These teachers then set up schools in the South for formerly enslaved people, called freedmen, and their children. After the war, the AMA opened more than 500 schools and colleges in the South. This helped freedmen become teachers, nurses, and other skilled professionals.
The Society's work grew quickly after the war ended and the Reconstruction era began. Education was a top priority for both Black and white people. Many religious groups supported the Society. It started its work in the South just three months after it was formed. By the end of its first year, it had 52 teachers. These teachers taught over 5,000 students in 59 schools. The schools were open to men, women, and children. By the year 1900, Black people had greatly improved their ability to read and write. This was a huge success after the war. However, by then, state governments, mostly led by Democrats, had started racial segregation. They also did not give enough money to Black schools and other facilities.
Who Led the Freedmen's Aid Society?
The leadership of the Freedmen's Aid Society is often linked to both the Congregational and the Methodist Episcopal churches. The Methodist church's history says their version of the Society started in 1866. It was "directed by a Board of Managers" chosen by the Methodist General Conference. In 1920, this group was reorganized and renamed the Board of Education for Negroes. Then, in 1939, it became part of the Board of Education of the Methodist Church.
Notable People Who Helped
- Ednah Dow Littlehale Cheney
- Anna Fisher Beiler
- Richard S. Rust
See also
References
