The Long Haul           

With the overwhelming endorsement of the Emancipation Proclamation, and the election of Abraham Lincoln to a second term in 1863, a foregone conclusion was that the stage was set for the complete elimination of physical slavery. Still in question, however, was what to do with four million newly freed depraved slaves? Clearly, one philosophy held that there was simply no way for Colored and Whites to co-exist as equals in these United States. Another, was that what served other ethnic groups migrating to this country should likewise serve freed Colored people. The American Missionary Association subscribed  to this philosophy of which the substance was EDUCATION. Education not for subordination, rather Freedom and Liberation-for the most deprived - for the fullest development of man and  womanhood.     

Three five-foot murals attempt to bring into focus the influence of Dorchester Academy  upon Liberty and surrounding counties over a period of 108 years. Panel 1- IN THE BEGINNING  The center piece is a log house, a model of the housing at the time, surrounded  by people longing for a better way of life. Survival occupations, tools used during this era, modes of transportation, family life, and a horse drawn buggy bringing a  teacher to the settlement. Panel 2 - THE LONG HALL 1873-1943....This panel depicts 70 yrs of academic excellence. The center piece is a "yellow brick road" that leads to the wonderful land of Dorchester Academy. The expanded Academy facilities can be seen, along with lifestyle changes, an all Colored administration, and an integrated audience. Panel 3 - THE NEW FRONTIER 1943-1981  .... This panel depicts the entrance of Colored people into mainstream America. The first county funded Secondary School for Colored people, Dr. Martin  L. King, Jr. and Andrew Young' s work at academy. The murals dramatically bring into focus the struggles of Colored people to share in the American Dream of Life, Liberty, and Peace of Mind.