Jump to content

User:CwHerby13/Sandbox

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Lincoln School Project is a community-driven initiative based in West Plains, Missouri. Originally focused on restoring the historic Lincoln School, a one-room school for African American students, the project has since transitioned to programmatic efforts, community engagement, and the creation of a Reflection Plaza on the school grounds. The restored Lincoln School now serves as a cultural center, promoting historical awareness and education.

History

[edit]

Lincoln School was constructed in 1926 in West Plains, Missouri, to provide education for African American students during the era of segregation in the United States. The area surrounding the school, historically known as "Nigger Hill" and later "Illinois Town," is now referred to as "The Hill." After desegregation, the school closed and served as a community facility, hosting organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the 4-H Program, and Alcoholics Anonymous.

On July 28, 2023, Crockett and Tonya Oaks III acquired the school from the city and launched the Lincoln School Project. Under the Oaks Family's leadership, the initiative aims to honor the legacy of the teachers, students, and families connected to the school. Following the completion of the restoration, the Lincoln School now functions as a hub for cultural and historical programs.

Visual Art

[edit]

The Lincoln School features significant artistic installations celebrating its historical and cultural legacy:

  • By God's Grace" Mural: Created by Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo, this vibrant mural reflects the resilience, unity, and hope of the Lincoln School community. It honors the experiences of past students and educators while aligning with the school’s current role as a cultural center.
  • Stained Glass Installation: Artist Heather Legler’s stained-glass work adds light and color to the space, highlighting the school’s historical significance and community heritage.
  • 1940s Life Mural: A forthcoming mural by artist Paul Jones will depict life at Lincoln School in the 1940s, further enriching the visitor experience.

Restoration and Reflection Plaza

[edit]

With the restoration complete, the Lincoln School Project is focusing on the Reflection Plaza, which will include custom statues created by Big Statue, Inc., based in Provo, Utah.

  • I Am America Too: A statue of a boy saluting, based on a design by artist Cbabi Bayoc, symbolizes inclusion and pride.
  • Feel the Love: This statue, inspired by a childhood photo of Tonya L. Oaks, embodies the spirit of love and community.

The Reflection Plaza is envisioned as a space for contemplation and community gatherings, deepening the site’s cultural and historical significance.

Cultural Programs and Community Engagement

[edit]

The Lincoln School Project offers a range of programs that foster community connection and celebrate Black history. Past events have included guest speakers, such as exoneree Lamar Johnson, and notable artists like Cbabi Bayoc, Charly Palmer, and Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo. National scholars, including Dr. Karida Brown, Dr. Marlin Barber, and Dr. Jason McCollom, have contributed to the project’s educational initiatives. Events such as Black History Month celebrations, Juneteenth commemorations, and Women’s History Month programs serve as platforms for dialogue and cultural appreciation.

Fundraising and Support

[edit]

The project is supported through local fundraising efforts, grants, and community contributions. Events like the Soul Food Fundraiser celebrate African American culinary traditions while raising funds for ongoing initiatives. Partnerships with donors and sponsors have been vital to the project's success.

Future Plans

[edit]

Looking ahead, the Lincoln School Project plans to expand its programming and outreach. A highlight of 2025 will be a special Black History Month event, aimed at enriching the cultural and historical understanding within the community.

Recognition and Impact

[edit]

Lincoln School is set to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, underscoring its historical importance. Through its restoration and cultural programming, the Lincoln School Project continues to foster appreciation for African American history and promote cultural diversity, leaving a lasting impact on the West Plains community.[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Herbolsheimer, Chris (11/09/2023). "A New Chapter for History: The Revitalization of Lincoln School by Crockett and Tonya Oaks III". {{cite news}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)CS1 maint: url-status (link)
  2. ^ "The Renovated Lincoln School Opens its Doors". West Plains Daily Quill. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  3. ^ "Reflection Plaza at Lincoln School". West Plains Daily Quill. 2024-09-20. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  4. ^ Staff, Quill (2024-01-29). "Unity and Heritage: Lincoln School dedication ceremony marks new chapter". West Plains Daily Quill. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  5. ^ Herbolsheimer, Chris (2024-10-01). "Chris' Corner The Lincoln School Welcomes Cbabi Bayoc". West Plains Daily Quill. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  6. ^ Herbolsheimer, Chris (2024-01-03). "Lincoln School Dedication: Restoration culminates with a ceremony on Martin Luther King Jr. Day". West Plains Daily Quill. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  7. ^ Staff, Quill (2023-12-07). "Major Donations Bolster Restoration of Historic Lincoln School Project in West Plains". West Plains Daily Quill. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  8. ^ Herbolsheimer, Chris (2024-03-12). "Chris' Corner". West Plains Daily Quill. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  9. ^ "An All-Black School Shut Down In Missouri. This Family Bought It To Restore Its Legacy". Essence. 2023-12-29. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  10. ^ "Lincoln School, West Plains former Black school, to become cultural center". Ozarks Alive. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  11. ^ "Reviving a Missouri Schoolhouse With Ties to Black History | National Trust for Historic Preservation". savingplaces.org. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  12. ^ "A future for Lincoln School". Howell County News. 2023-09-05. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  13. ^ Williams, Daniel (2023-08-31). "Lincoln School Project Officially Opens". Ozark Radio News. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  14. ^ "Historic Lincoln School renovation complete in West Plains". KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. 2024-02-01. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
  15. ^ Baniewicz, Michael (2024-05-23). "Lincoln School restoration in West Plains creates cultural center". Columbia Missourian. Retrieved 2024-12-12.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://wiki.riteme.site/w/index.php?title=User:CwHerby13/Sandbox&oldid=1263079007"