The early history of education has been given in previous chapters. During the civil war it was necessarily neglected, but when peace was the good people of the county were quick to recognize the necessity of popular education.
Sumach Seminary was founded about 1876, with E. I. F. Cheney principal, and Sam Berry assistant. The school was taught in the church three or four years, when the present Seminary building was erected. C. H. Humphreys, Rev. Mann, Miss Onie Henry, Joe Andersen, Wm. Lowrey and other well-known teachers have helped to make Sumach a pleasant memory in the hearts of countless boys and girls, who, thanks to the training received there, have found themselves well equipped for life's battle.
Eton High School was begun about 1890. Dr. M. P. Bates and J. T. Leamon were two of its early principals. Profs. Cox, Tally, Ronny, Berry, Nanny and others have contributed to its success. Dr. Wm. Greenlee is the present principal.
Lucy Hill Institute was built by a donation from Mr. George Hill, supplemented by local subscription. It was named in honor of his daughter, Lucy. This school has been doing a high grade of work and deserves the liberal patronage it has received. Profs. Harper, Byington, Trotter, Roach, and others have been in charge.
Colvard High School has perhaps the best finished building in the county. The first term was taught last year with Prof. W. M. Rogers, principal.
Chatsworth Graded School has been established only three or four years, but has made an excellent showing. Miss Lula Gladden has been the principal.
Ramhurst Graded School has an excellent building. While it has had some discouragement, there is no reason why it should not.soon become one of the very best schools in the county.
Other Secondary Schools have in the past been taught at Mt. Zion, Oram, Fort Mountain, Camp Ground, and other places. Prof. Dock Trimmier will be remembered as one of the early teachers who deserves special mention,
Primary Schools. The county is divided into twenty-nine school districts. The public supports a five months' term in each district. At present there are enrolled about 2.400 white and 100 colored pupils out of a school imputation of 2,766 white and 124 colored. This leaves nearly 400 pupils that are not enrolled in any school.
Teachers. The county employs forty white anil three colored teachers, and pays annually for the support of schools a total of $8,800. Teachers receive from $25 to $45 per month public money. Greater interest is being taken in education than ever before and the outlook is indeed hopeful. At the last Institute it was decided to have a four weeks' Normal School for training of Murray teachers.
Religious Awakening. There seems in recent years a general awakening along every line of Christian endeavor. Sunday Schools and prayer meetings are better attended. Revival meetings of unusual interest and power are being held all over the county. A healthy sentiment against selfishness and sin is felt everywhere.
It is the sincere hope and fervent prayer of the author that the "night is far spent" and that a glorious day is at hand.
Murray County History 1911