Uncovering the Hidden Legacy: The Bray School's Impact on Black Education

TLDRThe Bray School, an educational institution for enslaved black children in Colonial Williamsburg, is being restored and will soon be open to the public. This school operated from 1760 to 1774, teaching students ages 3 to 10 to read the Bible and other books. The restoration project aims to bring forth the history and empower future generations.

Key insights

🏫The Bray School was a significant educational institution for enslaved black children in Colonial Williamsburg from 1760 to 1774.

📚Students at the Bray School were taught to read the Bible and other books, with lessons focused on religion and obedience.

🔨The restoration of the Bray School building involves carefully moving it and using wood dating techniques to preserve its historic authenticity.

🏢The building that housed the Bray School was repurposed after its closure in 1774, but has now been relocated and will be opened to the public.

🔍The restoration project aims to uncover the hidden history of the Bray School and educate future generations about its impact on black education.

Q&A

When did the Bray School operate?

The Bray School operated from 1760 to 1774.

What subjects were taught at the Bray School?

Students at the Bray School were taught to read the Bible and other books, with lessons focused on religion and obedience.

What happened to the Bray School building after its closure?

The building that housed the Bray School was repurposed for housing and other purposes until it was moved in 1930. Colonial Williamsburg bought the building and is now restoring it for public viewing.

What is the significance of the restoration project?

The restoration project seeks to uncover the hidden history of the Bray School and shed light on its impact on black education. It aims to educate and empower future generations.

When will the Bray School be open to the public?

The Bray School is set to open to the public in September after the restoration project is completed.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The Bray School, an educational institution for enslaved black children in Colonial Williamsburg, is being restored and will soon be open to the public.

02:00The Bray School operated from 1760 to 1774 and taught students ages 3 to 10 to read the Bible and other books, with lessons focused on religion and obedience.

02:30After its closure, the building that housed the Bray School was repurposed until it was moved in 1930. Colonial Williamsburg bought the building and is now restoring it for public viewing.

03:10The restoration project involves carefully moving the Bray School building and preserving its historic authenticity.

03:40The restoration project aims to uncover the hidden history of the Bray School and educate future generations about its impact on black education.