I n the mid-forty's, many of the campus buildings were torn down. What remains is a magnificent, and architecturally imposing structure built in 1934 as a boy's dormitory. This structure became the centerpiece of the academy, and is now listed on the nation's register of Historic Sites. In 1997, a project to restore this structure to its original grandeur began. To date minor, albeit significant, work has been completed through the combined efforts of community donations and a $50,000 grant from the state. Specifically, exterior repair refurbishing, and painting of soffets, window frame and trim has been completed. Gutters, sidewalks, and new drain fields are schedules to be done by end of the year with ISTEA funds totaling $ 35,000. Donations from the local community were for initial repairs and paintings of some of the dormitory rooms replace heating system in the annex and make repairs to sections of the roof.  Complete restoration of this structure has been estimated to be between $ 1 and $ 1.5 million. The vision of the Dorchester improvement Association is to complete this task, and further to create the world class Museum and Community Resource facility this rich Historic site deserves.

Please join us in this effort. You can contribute by actively participating in the effort to obtain grants for the restoration work, supporting our fund raising efforts, or by personally contributing to the fund. Become a member today to help preserve this rich American history, and increase the awareness of historical and current issues associated with the African American experience.