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The years from 1863 to 1968 represent a significant period in the history of Negro education in Leon County. Passage of the federal Reconstruction Act by Congress on March 2, 1867 for the first time allowed black men to participate in political conventions, the drafting of new state constitutions, and to hold public office. However, dating to the period before slavery, it was education that sprang to the forefront as one of the pressing issues of the day. 
 
This book discusses how the thirst for knowledge engendered a spirit among newly freed slaves and their descendants, motivating them to use their skills to construct buildings for use as schools. The authors owe a debt of gratitude to surviving pioneers and their descendants who shared their early educational experiences. It is their testimony that is the foundation of this book. Former teachers, principals and students gave hours of their time framing our discussion. The vivid accounts of their journeys through this period in the history of Negro education were powerful beyond description.