Mary Lide Parker
One man’s passion for education and equality was honored on Sunday at the dedication of the newest addition to the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, Morris Grove Elementary.
In the 1880s, Morris Hogan, a black man born into slavery and later emancipated, used his own money and land to found the first school for black students in the Chapel Hill area. It remained open until the mid 1900s when public schools started accepting black students.
“The nice thing for our children was we were able to build in this history and we will continue to do that as the school year goes on,†said Amy Rickard, principal of Morris Grove. “It’s important to get children to understand the concept of time and how things change over time.â€
About 400 people attended the event, including county commissioners, members of the board of education, architects, teachers, parents and students. At least 30 honored guests, including members of the Hogan family and alumni from the original school, also attended and were given flowers by the kindergarten class.
“I think it was wonderful to be able to share the day with the descendants of the Hogan family and students of the former school. Their presence was really what made the day special,†said Stephanie Knott, assistant to the superintendent for community relations.
“Grandfather wanted all his children and all the country children to have schooling,†said Ida Horton Walker, 96, Hogan’s granddaughter, in an interview last year with the News & Observer. “He wanted the boys to be educated and the girls to marry educated men.â€
The original Morris Grove school, a simple wooden structure with outdoor toilets and stove heating, is now a private residence on property adjacent to the new Morris Grove Elementary.
During the dedication, everyone who had a part in forming the new Morris Grove, from architects to board members to teachers, was acknowledged. The students even played a role in the formation of their school by voting on what their school colors and mascot would be – green and blue and a gecko.
Rickard discussed goals of the school, including eliminating the achievement gap, preparing students for “a changing world,†emphasizing new and innovative technology and teaching children to respect the environment.
“At the new Morris Grove, we are proud to continue Mr. Hogan’s legacy,†said Rickard.