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Today in History: Williamsburg Bray School opens for Black education

9/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On September 29, 1760, the Williamsburg Bray School opened in Williamsburg, Virginia, founded on Benjamin Franklin's suggestion. This institution, dedicated to educating free and enslaved Black children, is recognized as the oldest surviving school building in the United States for this purpose. It operated until its closure in 1774, serving hundreds of students.

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Story summary

On September 29, 1760, the Williamsburg Bray School opened in Williamsburg, Virginia, founded on Benjamin Franklin's suggestion. This institution, dedicated to educating free and enslaved Black children, is recognized as the oldest surviving school building in the United States for this purpose. It operated until its closure in 1774, serving hundreds of students.